'Books on Bikes' is an educational initiative that involves delivering books to individuals who do not have access to public libraries. In many parts of the US, there are children who do not have easy access to reading materials that can help nurture their imagination and aid in their overall development. This project aims to increase literacy in these 'book desserts' by bringing reading materials directly to those in need.
'Books on Bikes' is run by the Seattle Public Library and it involves delivering books to children via bicycles. As managing librarian Jared Mills explains, "Seattle has a really strong bike culture so we wanted to tap into that and provide full service library programs." The Seattle Public Library has three different bike trailers that it uses to carry up to 100 books at a time. The trailers are also WiFi-enabled, so that the librarians can help patrons register for a library card and check out their books on the spot.
The initiative demonstrates one of the creative ways that libraries are engaging with communities and promoting local literacy.
Mobile Library Carts
These Passionate Librarians are Delivering Books Via Bicycles
Trend Themes
1. Community Literacy Programs - Expanding the reach of libraries and creating community engagement through mobile library carts.
2. Bike-based Services - Offering mobile services in urban regions with high bicycle use, such as book lending and other library functions.
3. Accessible Learning Materials - Increasing access to education and learning materials in underserved communities through mobile libraries.
Industry Implications
1. Library Services - Libraries can expand their reach by adopting mobile library carts as a way of bringing educational resources and learning materials to underprivileged communities.
2. Community Service - Community groups can use mobile library carts to offer impactful, bike-based learning services to at-risk community members and youth populations.
3. Non-profit Organizations - Non-profits can partner with libraries to increase access to materials and provide more opportunities for learning and literacy training in impoverished areas.