The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has awarded the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach a grant of over $99,000 for the implementation of a Mobile Library.
The focus of the project will be to create greater community outreach throughout the city so that essential library services such as literacy, career resources, and education can be brought to those in need.
A minivan enabled with Wi-Fi will bring connectivity to those in both the southern and northern parts of the city. In addition to providing broadband access, the minivan will offer Wi-Fi hotspots and laptops that can be taken out. Help with homework will also be offered by the library team, and the team will also offer encouragement and assistance to children and teenagers in the area. Flyer printing services are often used to create mailers to inform residents of such new projects.
There will be help for adults with their job searches so that those looking for work can get assistance with buildings resumés, filling out job applications, and other related services. There will also be tutoring in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). All these services will be available to all members of the community and at no charge.
Corporate sponsorships are also being sought by the West Palm Beach Library Foundation for this project. The Mandel Mobile Library is expected to get underway early next year.
