Mobile library recently approved for Paso Robles ‘community expansion’

The Paso Robles City Library’s first mobile mobile vehicle was officially accepted into the city’s fleet at the most recent Paso Robles City Council meeting.

The Paso Robles Library Foundation and Friends of the Paso Robles Library — two non-profit organizations that raise funds to support the library — purchased the Ford Transit 350 Van last month and donated the vehicle to the city of Paso Robles, with the understanding that the vehicle would be used as a mobile mobile

City Council members voted at their meeting Tuesday to accept the gift and include the vehicle in the city’s fleet.

“The City Library’s new mobile will allow us to expand our community outreach efforts and usher in a new era of public service in Paso Robles,” Information Services Librarian Taylor Worsham said in a news release. “We will now be able to bring the library’s resources outside its physical walls, including public book stops, visits to schools and other groups, and free programming for all ages.”

The van, valued at $74,735, was purchased and donated by the two entities at no upfront cost to the city. Organizations will also pay to upgrade the van with an accessible lift, shelving, outer wrap and mobile book collection.

By accepting the gift, the city of Paso Robles agrees to cover future maintenance, insurance and fuel costs — a cost officials say has already been included in the city’s approved budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year.

Before the bookmobile makes its debut in service, the necessary upgrades must be completed.

Community members interested in supporting the upgrades and launch of the bookmobile can find more information on Paso Robles Library Foundation website.