Library of the Month: Monarch Library System Bookmobile

The Library of the Month is a celebration of Wisconsin libraries compiled by the BadgerLink team. Want to be the next Library of the Month? Nominate your library!

The Monarch Library System Bookmobile, formerly the Eastern Shores Library System Bookmobile, has been serving the citizens of Sheboygan and Ozaukee counties for almost 40 years.

We’ve heard some whispers that bookmobiles are becoming obsolete. Right? WRONG. Public libraries serve lifelong learners of all ages and that’s great. But what about people who are homebound, disabled, or geographically isolated? The Monarch Library System Bookmobile service provides library access to individuals who don’t have easy access to traditional library services at schools, day care centers, assisted living facilities and rural communities, parking at churches, fire stations, local businesses, town halls and more.

A bookmobile is more than books! The bookmobile stops allow folks to participate in reading incentive programs, storytimes, and provides a gathering place where people can discuss local news or just share what’s new. The staff of the bookmobile provide very personalized service, selecting and reserving materials for the regulars and constantly making new connections in the community. In addition to providing access to books, the bookmobile also has magazines, audiobooks, DVDs, and the internet, including hotspots available for checkout. In fact, the bookmobile itself is a mobile hotspot, providing free WIFI anywhere they park. Because one in five Wisconsin residents have limited access to broadband, the bookmobile a powerful equalizing tool in the fight against the digital divide.

Soon the bookmobile will also serve as a mobile scanning lab. Many libraries have scanners for patrons to use, but to patrons who are unable to visit a library building, that’s not much help. This service provides access to people who might not otherwise have access to the needed technology and allows people to preserve memories or make digital copies of important documents at no charge.

The Monarch Library System Bookmobile Team are always looking at the road ahead with open eyes and an open mind for what’s next. Hop on and see for yourselves!

Image courtesy of Monarch Library System