Ford Transit Library Bookmobile

HQ Custom Design had teamed up with Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) to build a custom Ford Transit Bookmobile van, in their effort to better serve the borough with enhanced community outreach.  According to their website, BPL’s fleet of Bookmobiles annually serve thousands of Brooklyn residents making stops at schools, shelters, parks, senior centers, neighborhood festivals and other locations.As part of a new initiative, BPL has revamped its Bookmobile fleet and had chosen to add a Ford Transit to its rooster due to its mobility, durability and affordability. The Ford Transit chassis offers a number of unique customization possibilities to tailor each to fit both commercial and individual travel needs. 

Understanding Brooklyn Public Library’s Needs

The Bookmobile is capable of fitting over 6,000 books to appeal to each particular neighborhoods’ interests via a wide span of genres, foreign languages and age groups. To increase convenience of remote librarians, the van is equipped with the latest tech and PC systems to offer the same services found in a local branch such as checking in or returning materials, and even issuing out replacement or new library cards.

What is a Bookmobile?

For rural, remote, and other impoverished communities across the United States that do not have access to a local public library, Bookmobiles are able to fulfill a unique niche role of offerings books, audio-books, IT equipment, and other materials to these areas. In addition, Bookmobiles serve children during school breaks, primary caregivers, low-income families, people with disabilities and other individuals that are unable to visit a physical location. According to a 2018 research survey, conducted by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, there are a total of 650 Bookmobiles across the nation that close the gap in serving under-served communities and individuals.

 

Full-fledged Mobile Library with Plenty of Storage and Functionality

The Ford Transit Bookmobile features metal bookshelves against the right, left and rear walls each composed of 4 rows. To enable librarians to perform administrative tasks, a captain chair was incorporated with a retractable table for using a laptop to connect to BPL’s library database. Extra fold-able seating was also included in case another team member needed to tag along. On the exterior, to make boarding and alighting the vehicle safe and simple, wide motorized electrical side steps were installed. Lastly, the Ford Transit exterior was wrapped in bright and definitely eye-catching illustration ,  which provides the sense that always something of fun and wonder to be found within.

Want to Learn More?

HQ Custom Design was excited offer BPL our expertise, in their effort to promote engagement and outreach across the Brooklyn’s diverse neighborhoods. To view more images and view the spec list for this project please look through our gallery! For more information regarding our Bookmobile vans along with other lines of custom conversions please fill out our inquiry form, email us at sales@hqcustomdesign.com or give us a call at 201-592-6939.