By LAURA DANIEL
Tiger Media Network
This summer, the Hays Public Library’s Bookmobile is on the move, bringing books, movies, and more directly to the community. Next week, it will make stops at several locations, including ARC Park, Ellis Estates buildings 1–3, the Rainbow Stage at ARC Park, the Hays Downtown Market, and Victoria Park/Pool. These visits will take place on select days from June 16 to June 21.
“The Bookmobile’s stop locations are usually places where our community gathers most or where the need is greatest,” said HPL Outreach Coordinator Mae Moore. “We visit senior living homes, school and community events, daycares, and city parks. Many of these stops are based on requests from residents or because the locations serve a large portion of our community, like ARC Park. We’re always open to new suggestions, and we truly appreciate when community members share ideas for future stops.”
A full schedule of Bookmobile stops is available at hayslibrary.org/bookmobile.
The Bookmobile is designed to serve patrons of all ages—from babies to seniors—by making library materials accessible to those who may not have the time or ability to visit the library building. In addition to the Bookmobile, the library offers a delivery and pickup service, bringing books and other materials directly to patrons’ doors twice a week. This service is also available to Fort Hays State University students who may not be able to reach the Bookmobile or the library in person.
“The Bookmobile serves everyone, from the very young to the young at heart,” Moore said. “You’d be surprised how many people wouldn’t have access to books or movies if it weren’t for the Bookmobile. Our twice-weekly home delivery and pickup service ensures that even more people stay connected to the library, including those on the FHSU campus.”
The Bookmobile carries a wide range of materials for all age groups. For children, there are board books, picture books, early readers, graphic novels, and DVDs. Teens can browse a selection of young adult books and movies, while adults have access to fiction and nonfiction books, large print editions, and a variety of films.
“We try to keep our collection well-rounded, given the space,” Moore said. “If someone wants something that’s not currently on the Bookmobile—like a video game or specific title—we’re happy to deliver it directly to their door on a Tuesday or Friday.”
Anyone with a Hays Public Library card can borrow items from the Bookmobile. Those who don’t yet have a card can sign up for one directly on board during any of its scheduled stops.