ABOUT THE MOBILE LIBRARY
The Longview Library Foundation is raising funds for a new mobile library that will be operated by the Longview Library. This critical new extension to library services will help reach underserved areas of Longview and the surrounding district. Additionally, the new mobile library will help market and promote existing library services, and make it easy for library staff to offer services outside of the library itself and in the heart of our community where it matters most. It's your library, in your neighborhood, your park, your school.
Your library is here.
WHAT IS A MOBILE LIBRARY?
A mobile library, also known as a book-mobile, is a visible and versatile extension of the library and its reach to the community. Our mobile library will be a custom-designed vehicle built to expand the services the library offers and where it can offer them. It not only will house and circulate books and movies it will also have wifi, printing capabilities, a technology lab, and lots more.
The mobile library will serve the City of Longview and the Cowlitz County Mini- Rural Partial Library District, which contracts with the city for library service. It will have regular neighborhood visits in Lexington, Beacon Hill, Columbia Heights, Broadway, West Longview, Stella, and the Highlands. Other visits will be based on community events, library programs, and local demand.
WHY DO WE NEED A MOBILE-LIBRARY?
The mobile library will allow the library to reach more people and families within its service area. By bringing library services out of the building and into our neighborhoods we find news ways to service our community and educate people about all services they have access to through their library.
Children that live too far away to safely walk or bike to the library or community members without cars will especially benefit from the library coming to them.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST AND HOW IS IT BEING PAID FOR?
Current cost estimates from specialty vehicle vendors run about $320,000.
The Mini-District has pledged $50,000 and the Library Foundation has pledged $125,000 along with a $25,000 contingency and a commitment to fundraise. The rest of the vehicle costs, along with onboard books and technology, will be paid for via donations and outside grants.
You can support the mobile library project by making a donation to the Longview Library Foundation or by spreading the word about the project to your family, friends, and fellow community members. Speaking with city council or the library board at public meetings is also a great way to show support
