Four OC library systems roll out bookmobiles for underserved communities

Four of Orange County's 12 library systems operate bookmobile programs that deliver books, computers, and Wi-Fi hotspots directly to underserved neighborhoods across the county, Voice of OC reported Thursday.

The mobile programs — which visit parks, schools, and senior apartments countywide — aim to close the digital and literacy divide for residents who cannot easily reach permanent branches, a gap that COVID-19 library closures made impossible to ignore.

Santa Ana Public Library runs two vehicles — Know-Mo and Know-Mo XL — at a cost of over $140,000 annually, visiting more than eight city parks per week, according to Voice of OC. Patron Rosario Garcia said the stops have helped her build English skills. "Because I have a [library] card, right now, I can take a book home and practice [at home]," Garcia said.

Anaheim Public Library's bookmobile operates two stops per day, Monday through Thursday, at an annual cost of over $850,000 — the highest operating budget among the four programs. The vehicle offers books, DVDs, computers, and free library card registration at each stop.

Placentia Library District runs the newest of the four programs on a budget of just over $100,000, with stops that include the lot outside Valdez Middle School Academy. Librarian Damean Sanz said expansion is already in the works. "There are plans to expand service offerings, including the introduction of laptops to support digital access. The program already provides mobile hotspots, and there is ongoing interest in increasing the availability of STEM and STEAM kits to better support children's learning and engagement," Sanz said.

Orange County Public Libraries, which oversees 29 branch service areas and carries a total fiscal year 2025-2026 budget of over $110 million, created its outreach program specifically in response to COVID-19 closures. Spokesman Danilo Seranilla said the goal is inclusion. "Bringing resources directly into neighborhoods increases convenience, supports community engagement, and ensures that everyone can connect with library programs, technology, and literacy services in ways that best fit their daily lives," Seranilla said.

Bookmobiles first appeared in Orange County in the 1950s. All four current programs provide bilingual service in English and Spanish and offer free library card registration on-site. Officials across all four systems stressed the vehicles are designed to supplement, not replace, traditional branch libraries.

All four bookmobile programs are free and open to all Orange County residents, with on-site bilingual registration available in English and Spanish — no appointment required.