The Salem Public Library Bookmobile runs on diesel fuel and the good people who make sure it’s on the road. The contributors include the Library Advisory board, Salem Public Library foundation, and Friends of the Salem Public Library underwrote the graphics. The bookmobile features a satellite-based online catalog, room for up to 2,000 books, and it has the ability to “kneel” flush to the ground so that everyone has easy access to great ideas. All bookmobile stops are open to the public.

How to Borrow Books

First, you’ll need a Salem Library card. If you don’t have one, you can sign up for one at the bookmobile. You’ll need to present a piece of identification that shows your name and current address. Children in grades K-6 need only a parent’s signature, and the parents must provide proper identification. The card is free to Salem residents, and it can be used at the Central Library and the West Salem branch.

Special Requests

You can make special requests for books and other library materials with the bookmobile staff or by calling 503-588-6163. Leave a message with your name, the title of the items you want, and the name of your stop. When it’s possible, they’ll bring what you want the next time they visit your neighborhood.

Loan Period

All books and materials can be checked out for three weeks. They can be renewed as long as they are not on reserve for anyone else.

Features of the Bookmobile

The bookmobile runs on diesel fuel and $100,000 a year, which pays for staff, a book budget, fuel and maintenance.

The Salem Public Library Bookmobile came to Oregon from Ohio, where it was custom built by Farber Specialty Vehicles. They are one of the few companies in the U.S. that build bookmobiles because the construction requirements are complicated. A bookmobile has to be able to carry heavy loads, handle the traffic of people entering and exiting the vehicles, and it has to be durable enough to last. No breakdowns. That just wouldn’t do. So the Salem Public Library turned to the good professionals at Farber and they designed the perfect bookmobile, and they proudly stand behind their work.

Bookmobile Quick Facts:

Length: 28 feet
Weight: 18,000 lbs
Height: 7 feet
Engine: Diesel
Generator: Koehler Diesel
Cab: Ford 450

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