Our Vision: A Mobile Branch for Community Outreach Services

Largo Public Library conducted Community Conversations in which residents told staff that one of the Library’s goals should be to increase outreach services. Many believe a bookmobile is the best option to bring the benefits of reading and access to information to the people who need it most. It may be a convenience for some, but for many, bookmobile service will be life changing. Especially to those who can’t get to the library such as home-bound seniors and at risk children and teens. Library staff will go further than taking traditional library service to the people of Largo. They will elevate programs and services to a higher level by partnering with other Largo organizations to ensure literacy for all.

CHALLENGES AND BARRIERS TO LIBRARY SERVICES

Largo has areas that Library staff consider under-served. Many have limited access to transportation due to economic and mobility factors. Some are unaware of the shared resources available at the library.

  • Largo has one of the largest senior citizen populations in Pinellas County.

  • Data shows the number of library cards among residents drop significantly in areas furthest from the building.

  • There are several low performing schools in the Library’s service area.

  • Transportation in Largo can be difficult and costly.

Current Bookmobile Stop Locations

Locations are in Largo unless otherwise noted. 

  • Bardmoor YMCA 8495 Bryan Dairy Rd. Seminole

  • The Barrington  901 Seminole Blvd

  • Belleair Towers 1100 Ponce de Leon Blvd,  Clearwater

  • Cypress Palms 300 Lake Ave NE

  • Elmcroft of Pinecrest (North Tower & South Tower) 1150 8th Ave SW

  • Grand Villa 750 Starkey Rd.

  • GRAYDI 13420 Adams Circle

  • Heritage Village 11909 125th St. N

  • Heron House 2050 E. Bay Dr.

  • High Point Family Center 5812 150th Ave. N

  • Imperial Palms 4711 Imperial Palm Dr.

  • Indian Oaks 11355 131st St. N

  • Largo City Hall 201 Highland Ave.

  • Loving Arms Preschool 11220 Oakhurst Rd

  • Oak Manor 3600 Manor Lane

  • Pinellas Heights Senior Apartments 11411 Ulmerton Rd.

  • Pinellas Prep Academy 2300 S. Belcher Rd

  • Regal Palms 300 Lake Ave. NE

  • Royal Palms 300 Lake Ave. NE

  • Sabal Palms 449 Alt. Kenne Rd

  • Sweet Water Assisted Living 11290 Walsingham Rd.

  • Tijuana Flats 180 Belcher Rd.


WHAT WILL THE BOOKMOBILE PROVIDE THE COMMUNITY?

  • Support for Early Literacy

  • Kids Connected to Learning

  • Resources for Largo’s Workforce

  • Partnerships With Schools

  • Access to Technology

WHO WILL THE BOOKMOBILE SERVE?

  • Seniors – 34% of Largo’s Population

  • Children – Teens

  • Under-served Areas and Neighborhoods

WHERE WILL THE BOOKMOBILE STOP?

  • Assisted Living Facilities

  • Community Centers

  • Schools

  • Mobile Home Parks

  • Events

  • and More!