Project Description:  

This grant will complete funds for the purchase of a Library-on-the-Go mobile unit that will be used exclusively by the library.

The new mobile unit will be fully equipped with books, computers, WIFI and educational materials. It will feature a pop-out canopy, multiple shelves, a wheelchair lift and bus-style doors.

Having a dedicated mobile unit will allow the Santa Barbara Public Library (SBPL) to better support current offsite programs and expand services to four or more locations per day, providing underserved residents with access to information, training and other library services.

The Santa Barbara Public Library provides numerous free services to the community at its main and branch libraries. These include literacy training, job-seeking assistance and parent education as well as traditional book lending. In addition, library staff and volunteers go into the community to reach seniors and others with limited mobility, low-income families that lack transportation, adults and children for whom English is not a primary language and others unable to visit a library. Offsite services include tech classes for seniors, workforce development support and early literacy training. Services have been provided by a city van that is not adequately equipped and has limited availability.