As the wheels on the bus go ‘round and round,’ passengers can read and read as part of a new community partnership program.
Roam Transit, in a joint effort with Canmore and Banff libraries, launched Books on the Bus for its regional service on Tuesday (Sept. 6).
The six-month pilot project is for a mini-library filled with books and magazines for all ages stationed on Roam’s two regional buses.
The program operates as a “take, read and return” for passengers taking the 25-kilometre trip between the two mountain towns.
“We’re really excited about offering this for our riders and the partnership between public transit and public libraries,” said Steve Nelson, manager of operations at Bow Valley Regional Transit Services Commission. “If it’s working properly, the intent is it will become a full time program.”
Passengers will also be allowed to take the book with them off the bus with the intention of returning it to either regional bus once they have finished.
Each week, staff from both libraries will manage and stock the mini-libraries that are installed in a wooden box behind the driver’s seat.
“We think it’s a fantastic idea,” said Michelle Preston, director at the Canmore Library. “The concept of a little free library, and making access to reading materials easier is an extension of our services.”
Sarah McCormack, director at Banff Library, said she has high hopes for the tried and true program that takes the library to the community.
“We’re trying to create library access in various places in the community and it made sense to have books on the bus and they go back and forth and help time fly by a bit faster,” said McCormack.
