The Book Mobile returns to St. Clair County after a 30-year hiatus

There’s a new bus in town filled with books, games, and movies, thanks to the St. Clair County Library System.

“We are expanding knowledge to every corner in St. Clair County to bridge the gap in digital inaccessibility,” says Allison Arnold, the Director of the St. Clair County Library System.

But this is not the first time the county has had a bookmobile. Its first appearance dates back to 1925, before insufficient funds led to its closure.

When the library system sent out a survey asking what people were looking for in their communities, one of the top priorities was expanding and making library services feasible for everyone.

Arnold says it was also about bringing back physical media and balancing screen time, which is important for everyone, especially young kids.

Inside the book mobile, folks can find over 3,000 items, including books, CDs, and activities like board games. Although it is free to explore what it has to offer, to bring a book or game home, guests must obtain a library card or sign up for one on the bus.

“It’s very nostalgic,” Arnold says. “And kids think it’s really cool.” Other cities across the state, like Sterling Heights, have also brought back their library on wheels.

On the side of the bus, there is a TV for guests to play popular video games like Mario Kart. It will also have a free Wi-Fi hotspot.

The mobile library is dedicated to the late Dave Whipple, a longtime member of the community who served on the library’s board of trustees for nearly 10 years.

“If you knew Dave, you know he was an avid user of the library anywhere he went,” says Jannice Whipple, wife of Dave Whipple. “And I know, he is looking down on us smiling.”

Currently, the plan is for the bus to travel to communities across the county and work with schools, senior centers, community partners, and local events to do pop-ups. Details and schedules are still in the works.