BOOK MOBILE WILL BRING THE LIBRARY TO THE PEOPLE

Access. That's the motive behind the Cape Girardeau Public Library's campaign for a book mobile. The new service will allow the library to reach out into the community, bringing services to those without ready transportation. The mobile library will visit schools, nursing homes, and a number of other locations around town. The book mobile will constantly be on the road - making regular stops at least 30 locations each month.

Simply put, the role of a public library is to touch as many people as possible with services. That's just what the book mobile can accomplish.

Of Cape Girardeau's population of more than 34,000 people, only about 16,000 are library patrons. That means the library is not reaching at least half of the city's population. The reason may be due to lack of public transportation, the library's geographical location, economic conditions or the fact fewer people read these days.

But the book mobile offers a way to reach out with services to citizens already paying for it. Once the unit is purchased through private funds, its ongoing costs will be paid through taxes the city is already collecting.

The book mobile won't be inexpensive; it costs about $123,000. But it's a much more cost-effective alternative than neighborhood branches or public transportation. Library promoters have turned to private sources for funding rather than tightening tax dollars to make this project a reality. Of that total, $93,000 will buy the bus, and another $30,000 will be earmarked for 5,000 books.

The book mobile collection would be constantly rotated, according to Director Terry Risko. The mobile service would also be connected to the main library by computer, so patrons could request specific books or services. It would also enhance public and private school libraries in the city.

Risko is a big believer in the book mobile experience because he's seen it work in many other communities. He feels strongly that the book mobile can spread the good word about reading and literacy throughout our city. Since his arrival 10 months ago, he's tried to provide greater access to the public - such as the new Sunday hours, which have been a success.

Book mobiles remain popular in other parts of the nation and state. In St. Louis County, 18 book mobiles operate, offering more than a million circulation each year.

In today's high-tech society, information can no longer be confined to the library's four walls. This service can say that Cape Girardeau is serious about education and fighting illiteracy. A book mobile is a great way to bring the library to the people.