The Friends of the Palm Beach County Library System recently received a donation of $225,000 to be used toward the purchase of a new bookmobile.
The private donor, who wished to remain anonymous, was inspired to donate to the library by the example of businessman-turned-philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, who built public library buildings throughout the United States in the early 20th century.
Each bookmobile is custom-built, so it’s expected to take at least a year before the county gets its new vehicle.
“The current bookmobile recently received a facelift via a wrap that makes it look brand new, but in actuality, it is nearing the end of its lifespan,” Library Director Douglas Crane explained. “So the donation couldn’t have come at a better time.”
The bookmobile visits 42 stops, all of which are more than three miles away from a county library branch location. The bookmobile also participates in special events such as the recent Families Reading Together kickoff in November at the Palm Beach Zoo.
Last year, more than 50,000 items were checked out via the bookmobile.
“The donation is one of the largest that we have ever received,” said Ken Ida, president of the Friends of the Palm Beach County Library System.
The Friends of the Palm Beach County Library System is a nonprofit organization whose mission is the promotion of enhanced library services.
ABOVE: The Palm Beach County Library System’s bookmobile recently received a facelift but is due for replacement soon.
Thank you to this wonderful donor who elected to remain anonymous. Though you do not ‘glow’ in the public acknowledgement of your donation, may your self satisfaction for doing this be sufficient.
Reading is the key to growth and understanding for all.