For National Library Outreach Day, we're sharing a little sneak peak of the new bike libraries we're building out of 81st Ave Branch!
Library Assistant Anthony Propernick, who was awarded 2024 Bike Champion of the Year by Bike East Bay, works on this project along with other members of our East Oakland Engagement team.
About this project he says, "The main reasons for building our new fleet of bike libraries come from years of doing this kind of outreach and learning what works best. We wanted to make the bikes more functional, flexible, and easy for staff to use and patrons to interact with at different types of outreach events."
Here's why our East Oakland Engagement Team updated the bike library design:
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Better for outreach
We designed the bikes to support our “library lounge” style, creating a welcoming, interactive space with books, resources, and activities. The bike itself becomes the primary setup, acting like a mini service desk, book display, and activity station all in one. -
Easier to use
We wanted the bikes to feel simple and intuitive for both staff and patrons, making it easier to connect and keep things running smoothly during events. -
More flexible and accessible
Our hope is that these bikes and book trailers work for different comfort levels and event sizes. Staff can use them with a trailer for bigger setups or on their own for something smaller. Features like storage boxes and folding shelves make setup quick and manageable.
Bike libraries help us to meet our patrons where they are at, to bring more whimsy and joy to the experience of reading, and to better understand the needs of our community.
Learn more about bike libraries on community outreach at OPL and our fleet of bike libraries.
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