based out of 5600 Everglades
Ventura, CA 93003
United States
Branch Contact:
Branch Hours:
Services Available
The VC Mobile Library
The Mobile Library is currently scheduled to make visits throughout Ventura County, bringing WiFi on Wheels services and library materials to underserved locations.
The vehicle serves as a WiFI hotspot, providing WiFi access outside the vehicle for several feet, allowing students and the community to socially distance and connect to the Internet. Mobile Library staff also provide book services and issue new library cards.
Mobile Library Report 2018-2023
Watch a video about the Ventura County Library Mobile Library Program [March 2021]
Ventura County Library boasts having the first bookmobile service in California, dating back to 1924 when Elizabeth Topping, then County Librarian, loaded saddlebags on horseback to deliver books throughout the county.
Almost a century later, the Ventura County Mobile Library hits the road in May 2019. Playing an important outreach role, the Mobile Library is connecting new users and raising awareness of library services throughout the county. The Mobile Library also is a great opportunity to introduce the love of reading to children and to discover the benefits of lifelong learning.
“The mobile library is such a great opportunity for our Nyeland families who do not have access to even the closest library.”
-- Monique Garcia
BGCOP Nyeland Unit Director
The Mobile Library offers a full range of library services, including:
- Popular materials for all ages and in multiple formats: books, DVDs, audiobooks
- Checkout and return
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wireless Printing
- Laptop lending
- 3D Printing
- STEM & Makerspaces activities
- Storytimes
- Class visits
- Participation in community events
Mobile Library FAQ [collapse collapsed]
Click on the questions to see the answer:[collapse collapsed]
How was the Mobile Library funded?
The Ventura County Mobile Library was completely funded through grant and donated funds. It was funded through a generous donation from the Ventura County Library Foundation, which included significant donations from Premier America Credit Union and the Port of Hueneme. In addition, the Ventura County Mobile Library project was also funded through a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and awarded through the California State Library.
The Ventura County Library established partnerships with neighboring libraries to reach all corners of the county with library services. Grant partners include: Santa Paula Public Library, Moorpark City Library, Simi Valley Public Library, and the Museum of Ventura County.
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What does it do?
The Mobile Library provides service to the underserved areas where many people have little or no library service due to lack of transportation or mobility issues which may prevent residents from having access to library buildings.
The Mobile Library offers a full range of library services including: Free Wi-Fi, Wireless Printing, Laptop lending, 3D Printing, STEM & Makerspaces activities, Storytimes, and Class visits. The Mobile Library serves communities with collections that include materials for children, teens, adults, and seniors in English and Spanish. Patrons may also request material. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
How big is the Mobile Library?
The Mobile Library is 312” long (26 feet), 95.5” wide (8 feet), and 120” high (10 feet). The interior height is 78.2” high (6.5 feet). It holds approximately 2000 books, DVDs, and audiobooks depending on the type. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
Is the Mobile Library Fuel Efficient and Green?
The Mobile Library uses clean diesel fuel, a type of fuel highly refined to improve combustion efficiency and reduce harmful emissions. In addition, electric power in the vehicle is supplemented by solar panels on the roof of the vehicle which work to recharge the vehicles batteries during the day. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
How does the Mobile Library work?
The Mobile Library visits stops once or twice a month and materials are checked out until the following month. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
What does the service cost?
Mobile Library service is free to all community members in Ventura County. Library cards are free. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
Where will it go?
The Mobile Library will travel Countywide primarily serving those underserved populations who may experience barriers or limited access to brick and mortar libraries. To see a current list of stops and special events, check out the Mobile Library Event Calendar (the schedule is in process of being finalized). [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
How long does the Mobile Library stay at each stop?
1-2 hours, depending on the stop. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
Can you get a Library card on the Mobile library?
Yes. As in the Library, you just need to bring an ID and something that verifies your address, to get a card. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
How long do materials check out from the Mobile Library?
Most Mobile Library materials can be checked out for three weeks and renewed for an additional three weeks. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
Do I have to return materials checked out from the Mobile Library to the Mobile Library?
Materials charged out from Mobile Library can be returned to the Mobile Library or any Ventura County Library location. Fines are charged for late, lost and damaged materials. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
If I see something in a branch that I want, can I place a hold to pick it up at the Mobile Library?
Yes. When you place a hold on the website, select Mobile Library as your pickup location. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
Can I pay my account balance at the Mobile Library?
No. You can:
- pay your account balance at any library building location
- sign in to your account and pay fees online
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When is the Mobile Library closed?
- New Year’s Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents' Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
What happens in bad weather or unforeseen emergencies, including road closures, etc.?
Some inclement weather or other emergencies may prevent the Ventura County Mobile Library from operations such as severe storms. In such cases, all materials will be renewed and there are no charges. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
What if the Mobile Library doesn't stop at its usual time and I have items to return?
You will not be charged overdue fines if there is an interruption to regular Mobile Library service. [/collapse] [collapse collapsed]
Can I contribute to the Mobile Library?
If you wish to make a donation to keep the Mobile Library on the road, please visit www.vclibraryfoundation.org. [/collapse]
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Special Events and More
Our Thanks
We offer our sincere thanks to the following organizations for contributing to the Mobile Library!
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