Sussex County introduces new bookmobile to serve communities

Sussex County officials unveiled a new bookmobile on April 21, replacing a decades-old vehicle to improve access to library services across the county. (Photo courtesy of Sussex County Delaware.)

Sussex County officials unveiled a new bookmobile Tuesday, April 21, marking the latest update to a long-running program aimed at bringing library services directly to communities across the county.

The new vehicle replaces a 33-foot, 1988 Thompson-built bus that had been in service for decades and was recognized nationally as one of the oldest active bookmobiles. County officials said the older diesel-powered model had become increasingly costly to maintain and presented operational challenges due to its size and requirement for a commercial driver’s license.

The new 28-foot, gasoline-powered 2025 Turtle Top Terra Transit is designed to be more fuel-efficient and easier to operate, with improved maneuverability and no requirement for a CDL.

“This investment allows us to bring services directly to the people who need them most,” County Administrator Todd F. Lawson said.

The new bookmobile cost approximately $313,000, according to the county.

The mobile library will continue to serve communities throughout Sussex County year-round, making stops at senior centers, schools, day-care facilities and other locations where access to a traditional library may be limited. The vehicle can carry approximately 3,000 items, including books, movies and audio materials.

“Our new bookmobile brings the library to life on every street it travels, turning miles into moments of discovery,” County Librarian Rachel Lynch said. “Wherever it parks, stories open, connections grow, and the community comes a little closer together.”

A schedule of bookmobile stops is available on the Sussex County library website or by calling the county library system.