In a community of more than 150,000 with two locations, the CRPL sought new ways to reach people and engage them in summer learning and workforce development support with access to Wi-Fi, computers and various tech toys. The van was deployed to more than 17 locations through the summer months, setting up in parks in partnership with the Parks and Rec department, as well as reaching residents in neighborhoods with transportation barriers to the library.

Mobilizing technology and taking it out into the community where people of all ages could engage and learn provided an innovative opportunity for the Library to prepare people for future career opportunities. Kids engaged with Makey Makeys, Dremel kits, Ozobots and more. The van set up at job fairs, providing laptops and resume assistance on the spot. Partnering with Parks and Rec to set up four days a week throughout the summer alongside food trucks and nonprofit organizations increased visibility and drew crowds.

Since launching in June 2021, the van made over 125 visits to 17 locations and reached nearly 6,000 people. These included city parks, rec center, community college, churches, preschools and juvenile detention center. Hundreds of people interacted by signing up for library cards or the Summer Dare program, engaging with tech toys or receiving job search help. 100% of participants surveyed said they gained confidence with Library technology and a greater awareness of technology the library offers.