Aboard the Louisville Free Public Library’s brand-new Children’s Bookmobile, Mrs. Claus delivered an early holiday present to students at Engelhard Elementary School this morning – new books of their own. They were joined by Louisville’s First Lady Rachel Greenberg, library staff, and members of the Library Foundation and JBS Louisville for the public unveiling of the new bookmobile.
This new mobile library will deliver not only books, but also library storytimes, sensory experiences, and innovative programming to under-resourced communities. LFPL’s bookmobile service visits daycares, YMCA programs, community centers, faith-based organizations, and schools like Engelhard, as well as parks, block parties, and more, throughout the year.
“Having a new bookmobile will not only allow us to provide more continuous and dependable service to the community, but because it is larger than our current vehicle, we are able to carry more books and serve more children,” said Library Director Lee Burchfield. “With the help of donors to the Library Foundation, we are excited to strengthen our commitment to ensuring that children in our community have access to books and other resources that will help them be successful in school and life.”
The Bookmobile project was made possible by a generous donation from Eleemosynary by LMH Foundation, which challenged area donors and organizations to match funds. JBS more than answered that call donating $145,000 toward the $204,164 purchase cost of the vehicle. In total, the Library Foundation raised more than $315,000 which paid for the vehicle and its customization, as well as filled it full of books, technology, and other materials.
“The JBS team is incredibly proud of our investment in this bookmobile that will benefit families throughout our community,” said Erik Segura Martinez, General Manager, JBS Louisville. “Our Hometown Strong program allows JBS to support the region in many meaningful ways, and this project is an excellent example of our commitment to Louisville and our neighbors.”
"The arrival of our new bookmobile is a reflection of the incredible power of community support,” said Chandra Gordon, Executive Director of The Library Foundation. “Together, with a special thanks to the exceptionally generous contribution from JBS, we've transformed a dream into a reality. This bookmobile isn't just a vehicle; it's a mobile hub of knowledge, ready to bring the world of books to every corner of our community."
