End of an Era

The Bookmobile left yesterday. No brass bands. No ceremonies -- but more than a few tears and an imperceptible wave of the hand.

SELCO no longer provides the mobile library service that it has provided for over 30 years in southeastern Minnesota. After considerable study, the SELCO/SELS Board of Directors made the difficult decision to cease bookmobile service at the end of 2005 to communities where no public library exists. The recommendation from the Finance Committee came to the Board for approval on a black-bordered document.

The SELCO Executive Director wrote in a letter to the 7 affected counties currently receiving service:

SELCO’s decision is the result of escalating operational costs, in particular ever increasing fuel and maintenance expenses. While the seven counties currently receiving mobile service jointly support the operational expenses, SELCO has been underwriting this service and covering annual operational deficits ranging from $6,000 - $15,000 per year depending upon the nature of the unexpected repair work. In addition, the current vehicle is reaching the end of its lifespan with a projected replacement cost of $175,000. This capital amount is simply not available within the SELCO budget and given the financial challenges facing each of the seven counties, the SELCO Board recognized it could not tap its county partners for a significant contribution.

While it is true that there are 36 public libraries in the 11 counties of southeastern Minnesota, the absence of the bookmobile leaves some people unserved in communities that do not have public libraries. The last couple months were very difficult for staff and patrons. Thanks and tears and hugs were shared. A huge hole is in the hearts of the staff who have made their appointed rounds on rural roads when they were covered with snow and ice as well as when they wound through lush green valleys flooded with magnificent sunshine.



The bookmobile has a new home with the Plum Creek Library System in southwestern Minnesota. The books that filled the shelves are being given to other libraries. Most of the former bookmobile patrons have been offered a variety of alternative services.

Life goes on . . . but today the bookmobile garage is empty, and we have a lump in our collective throat.

Thank you, SELCO and counties who supported this personalized service

Thank you, Doreen, Karine, John, and Cindy

Thank you Bookmobile

Thank you, men, women, and children who needed us!

Godspeed to services that take the place!