A black van with mphpl and colorful books on the side is near a sign that reads 'ready to roll'. People cheer and take photos, conveying excitement. A cameraman films the scene.

A New Library-on-Wheels for Our Community 

The Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library and its Board of Trustees are thrilled to announce the arrival of the new Bookmobile! 

The Bookmobile will travel to senior centers, local daycares and underserved neighborhoods throughout Penn and Harris townships – expanding access beyond its walls. 

“Sometimes the people who are unable to get to the library are the ones who need us the most,” said Jennifer Ludwig, Director of Public Services. “Our Bookmobile will meet people where they are with materials and programs to spark lifelong learning.” 

Community Support Made It Possible 

Donna Meeks, MPHPL Director, said the project has been a true community partnership. “The Mishawaka Common Council granted us $50,000 of ARPA money toward the purchase of the vehicle. We needed a garage, and Mayor Wood found the perfect spot for it! The St. Joseph County Council approved bond dollars for the garage’s construction. It truly takes a village, and this is a lovely village of caring, responsive people. Without their support, this wouldn’t have happened.” 

A generous donation was also made by MPHPL patron Teresa Meyer in honor of her father, Eddie Sheppard, a literacy advocate who passed away in 2023. “My father believed in the power of reading,” said Meyer. “Our family is honored to celebrate his legacy by helping bring the gift of literacy to our community.”

White book cart with a sign reading ‘Books are gifted in memory of Eddie Sheppard.’ People in the background at the MPHPL Bookmobile launch.

Bookmobile Service: A Look Back 

Bookmobile service has a history in Mishawaka. From 1974 to 1977, the library operated the “Wheel-borrow,” which served five areas within city limits once a week. 

A woman stands in the doorway of a mobile building with a large “Open House 1:00-4:00 p.m.” sign. The building has a painted child with a wheelbarrow and a sign for Mishawaka Public Schools, Mishawaka, Indiana.
Black and white photo of a narrow library aisle with tall bookshelves on both sides, a small step stool in the center, and a metal accordion gate at the back near a closed wooden door.

“It isn’t surprising that this service was short lived,” said MPHPL Director Donna Meeks. “Vintage vehicles were difficult to drive and difficult to use, and they certainly wouldn’t meet today’s ADA standards.” 

Old vs. New Bookmobiles: 

  • Older models were often retrofitted buses or RVs, dimly lit with cramped aisles, poorly vented and with little climate control. Without an easy way to unload materials, patrons had to climb aboard. The absence of technology capped services offered to book lending. 
  • New vehicles are typically well-lit vans.  While smaller in size, they are supplied with proper heating and air, and there is the additional option of installing a generator for proper climate control during long stops. Mobile hotspots expand services that incorporate online activities such as downloading library apps or signing up for events. 

Designed and Built for Access 

Behind the scenes, the Bookmobile took almost two years to become reality. The transit van was purchased from Gurley Leep Automotive in Mishawaka and retrofitted by TWR Specialty Vehicles. Customized add-ons include slanted shelving, locking mobile carts and an electric wheelchair ramp to easily move carted materials so that visitors do not have to come aboard. Features such as Wi-Fi hotspot capability, a powered awning and external speakers make outdoor outreach events simple and accessible. 

Oh, the Places We’ll Go! 

Stephanie Maggart, MPHPL’s Family & Outreach Services Coordinator, said the itinerary for Bookmobile stops is nearly complete. “Our staff have been actively connecting with senior communities and apartment complexes. We are excited to begin this next chapter and extend the joy of reading with residents across our service area.”

Simplified Summary

The Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library has a new Bookmobile. It will bring books and library help to people in the community. The Bookmobile will visit senior centers, daycares, and other places so more people can read and learn.