Library Outreach Vans are making books more accessible across Provo.
Each city in Utah County has one library serving its community. The Provo Library’s outreach services make it easier for people who have trouble getting to the library to access its resources.
Crystal — a resident of Legacy Village senior living home — misses going to the library, she said.
“Of course, when you’re in here, it’s hard to get out,” Crystal said.
Crystal’s favorite day of the week is Thursday, when the library van comes. She has loved reading since she was four years old. Books soothe her mind and give her something to pass the time, she said.
Crystal grew up in foster homes. Her experience and interests differed from those of the other girls she grew up with, she said.
“We always got a doll for Christmas, and I used to say I didn’t want a doll,” Crystal said. “I wanted a book.”
Librarians use outreach vans to bring books to people such as Crystal all around Provo. They visit places such as community centers, preschools and teen residential centers.
Libraries are evolving and increasingly important, Amber Lowe, an outreach librarian, said. She believes this is especially true in modern times when lifestyles can feel isolating.
“But, if anything, we’re finding people need libraries more because they need a gathering place for the community,” Lowe said.
Crystal said the librarians make her feel truly seen.
“They’re very friendly and they learn your names, which is nice,” Crystal said. “And, they know what kind of books you like to read.”
Lowe finds it both satisfying and rewarding to see how excited people become when they find out what the library has to offer, she said.
The librarians also enjoy waving back at people as they drive by in the van, they said.