Library System thrilled to bring it back
By Barb Pert Templeton
The St. Clair County Library will introduce a brand-new Bookmobile in late August and notes that the unique library on wheels will be packed with books, games and movies.
The Bookmobile will travel across St. Clair County, bringing library services directly to neighborhoods, community centers, and gathering places, a recent library press release stated.
The library will host an official ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony for the Bookmobile on Thursday, Aug. 21 at 11 a.m. at the Main Library located in Port Huron.
“I’m thrilled to share exciting news that has been many years in the making—the St. Clair County Library System is launching a new bookmobile,” St. Clair County Library System Director Allison S. Arnold MLIS, said in an email.
Blue Water Healthy Living sent an email to Arnold, to find out more about the new Bookmobile.
Blue Water Healthy Living: How long has a bookmobile plan been in the works at the SCCLS?
St Clair County Library System Director Allison S. Arnold: Bringing a bookmobile back to our community has been a long-standing goal of the library system. It was a key promise made during our 2022 millage campaign and an important part of our strategic plan to expand access to library services throughout St. Clair County. Thanks to the confidence and support of our residents, this vision is now becoming a reality.
Some library staff and friends of the library gather around the new Bookmobile.
BWHL: Is this the first time the library system has introduced a bookmobile?
Arnold: While this is not the first time SCCLS has offered bookmobile services—our system’s 108-year history includes several iterations of mobile outreach—it has been many years since we last brought books and resources directly to neighborhoods. Now, with new tools and a modern approach, we’re excited to reintroduce this service in a way that’s more impactful than ever.
BWHL: What brought this about for the library?
Arnold: The return of the bookmobile is more than just a nod to the past—it’s a strategic investment in the future of library service in St. Clair County. During our planning process, we heard from the community that expanded, equitable access to library resources and services is a top priority. This bookmobile allows us to meet that demand, connect with more people, and serve our county more effectively than ever before.
BWHL: Can you share what will be on the bookmobile as it travels the county?
Arnold: The bookmobile will carry approximately 3,000 items, including books for all ages, games, and activities. It will also serve as a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, offering free internet access to help close the digital divide in underserved areas.
BWHL: Who will be on the bookmobile introducing it to the community?
Arnold: We’ve appointed Mr. Andrew Kercher as our Bookmobile Branch Lead, and he will be joined by a dedicated team focused solely on delivering mobile library services.
BWHL: Do users of the bookmobile need to have a library card?
Arnold: As with all SCCLS branches, use of the bookmobile is free, and no library card is required to browse or participate. However, checking out materials for home use does require a card—and we make the process of obtaining a card as simple as possible for all county residents.
BWHL: What are some examples of sites the bookmobile will visit?
This mobile branch will be working with schools, senior centers, community partners, and local events across the county. A regular schedule of stops is being developed, and we also welcome special requests for visits to specific locations.
The Main Branch of the St. Clair County Library is located at 210 McMorran Blvd. Port Huron
