It's hip, happening, full of books and coming to a neighborhood near you.
Coquitlam Public Library relaunched its high-tech book bus Friday, with the promise that more people from all areas of the community would be helped by the mobile library service.
"I am so happy, I know how much this can do for the community," said Sal Kiridena, the driver who was devastated when the original book bus was destroyed by fire in May, 2014.
Now, thanks to donations from Wesbild, Industrial Alliance, Rotary of Coquitlam, Friends of Coquitlam Public Library Society, and individual supporters, CPL has the book bus, renamed Library Link, rolling again.
It took months to find a new book bus and refurbish it, said library director Todd Gnissios, and he promised that new stops would be put on its itinerary in 2016.
Library Link already visits Tri-City Family Place, 3435 Victoria Dr., on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Cottonwood Park, 672 Aspen St., on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with more locations to be added in 2016.
"We'll be investigating where we want to take it," Gnissios confirmed, adding that seniors with mobility issues and families who can't get to the library during the day will be those the bus will continue to serve.
Built on a Ford F450 chassis, the mobile library has room inside for almost 2,000 books and is equipped with a checkout computer, a sound system, wheelchair lift, wifi and a large awning for outdoor story times and other activities.
The collection includes children’s books, bestsellers, DVDs, ESL materials and more — all brand new.
As well, the staff on board is able to issue library cards, help residents download library eBooks to their personal devices, recommend titles for them and their children, and help newcomers with information about the library and other community services.
"It's an opportunity to give a taste of what our library is about," said Jack Trumley, chair of the Coquitlam Public Library Board.
