While browsing InfoDocket (which is quickly becoming my favorite library news source) I came across an article about an organization Libraries Without Borders that has started a program in Detroit called Wash and Learn. The program transforms folding stations at local laundromats into mini-libraries, with computer stations, book shelves, and even library staff onsite to lead programs. This program is a wonderful example of bringing the library to the public, instead of making the public come to the library. Many people may not have the time (or the transportation means) to access local public libraries, especially in locations where the closest library is miles away. The concept of a traveling library is not new, and Wikipedia has a detailed article describing the history of traveling libraries around the world and in the US.
Here are three examples of how books (and other library materials) are traveling far and wide to find new readers:
- Bookmobiles: A bookmobile is a “vehicle designed for use as a library” (according to Wikipedia), and bookmobiles have been around since the 19th century. Early bookmobiles in England and the US were horse or mule-drawn vehicles, but bookmobiles have come a long way. Some modern bookmobiles have transformed into techmobiles, offering technology access (like Wi-Fi, computer access, technology classes, and more) to under-served communities.
- BookCrossing: If you’ve found a book mysteriously left in a public place with a jacket cover leading you to a website that documents where the book has journeyed, then you’ve encountered bookcrossing. The term “bookcrossing” comes from the website bookcrossing.com, “a free online book club which was founded to encourage the practice, aiming to ‘make the whole world a library'” (via Wikipedia). Bookcrossing movements have popped up around the world, especially on public transportation, turning trains and buses into mobile libraries.
- Little Free Library: Little Free Library is a nonprofit organization founded in 2009 that promotes the creation of public book exchange hutches. The Wikipedia article on the organization reports that “there are more than 50,000 registered Little Free Libraries worldwide, in all 50 of the United States and in 70 countries.”
I love the concept of libraries traveling into the community, and even people creating their own libraries in their front yards. Libraries are built on curiosity and creativity, and that spark can spread well beyond the brick-and-mortar buildings.
The Always Learning Librarian 