The Alhambra Civic Center Library has unveiled its new Mobile Library, bringing literacy and fun to all corners of the community.
This new library on wheels will make stops at local parks and Summer Camp at Granada Park.
“For some residents, finding the time or transportation to get to the library building can be difficult or inconvenient,” said Mayor Katherine Lee. “This Mobile Library will roll into different neighborhoods, allowing us to make library materials accessible to people in all parts of town.”
“The van will grant us the capacity to provide programming and services outside the confines of our building”, said Hilda LohGuan, Library Director. “We can now pop-up in different parks, schools, and neighborhoods to meet our patrons where they are. While we are focused on families with children this summer, we are working on plans to visit venues where seniors gather this fall!”
This new library on wheels will make stops at local parks and Summer Camp at Granada Park.
The library has ordered a special collection for mobile services—primarily some of the most popular titles requested by children and their families. Staff will bring easy ups, tables, and books to the parks that they’re visiting. The public will not be able to go inside the vehicle, but they’ll be able to browse the new materials, as well as make requests. Library staff will issue library cards, circulate materials, answer simple reference questions, and share upcoming programming and digital resources. During the Summer Reading Program, staff will also be giving away project/craft kits for our community members to enjoy.
The Mobile Library Project was the result of a multi-departmental collaboration. The Alhambra Police Department donated the van to the library. Staff from the Public Works Department cleaned the vehicle and helped design and wrap the exterior with graphics. Parks and Recreation staff assisted in coordinating park visits and Human Resources staff provided safety and risk management training.
The library is working on securing additional funding to procure mobile hotspots and Chromebooks so that future visits into our community will include light tech hours and enhanced connectivity.
Visit the Library's website to view the Mobile Library's scheduled stops.