Library on Wheels: Mary Lemist Titcomb and America's First Bookmobile

What a treasure! In _Library on Wheels_, we discover an amazing woman--Mary Titcomb--who was a brilliant administrator, an astute librarian, an innovative outreach expert, an ahead-of-her-time public relations guru--and the "inventor" of the bookmobile! This beautifully designed book features turn-of-the-century (19th-to-20th) images and photos that document this unique woman's journey and her influence on American culture. It will be loved by librarians, people who've enjoyed using bookmobiles, American history buffs, women's studies explorers, and anyone who loves books; and that includes children and adults. Glenn has created a lovely addition to any bookshelf--at home, in school, or at the library!

Usually I find history books hard to read, so I was hesitant on picking up this book, but the writing is completely engaging and the story so interesting, I had to go and buy another copy for the elementary school my children attended. The book was that good - I immediately wanted to share it with more readers. The author made this bit of history about our early library system completely accessible. We truly are blessed for our libraries today, and for the early pioneers of our library system who dedicated themselves to getting books into the hands of children.

This is the inspiring story of how the bookmobile got started in the US. It is impeccably researched, beautifully written, and the visual presentation is stunning, with many intriguing period photos. Both the author and the designer really capture the charm of a bygone age. While the book is clearly geared toward young readers (as the large typeface and certain idiosyncrasies of style suggest), Ms Glenn never speaks down to her reader, and her writing is eloquent and engaging. I would recommend it to readers of all ages as an important chapter in the history of libraries in the US, and in particular for documenting the life of Miss Titcomb, the distinguished librarian whose vision and persistence brought a love of reading to those for whom books had been literally out of reach.

Every word in Library on Wheels – including the notes and other back matter – is fascinating, informative and engaging. The story of the remarkable Miss Mary Lemist Titcomb is told in an accessible, friendly and clear fashion. It is also delightfully sprinkled with fun facts that will appeal to children (and adults!) – Mr. Dewey’s first snippy rebuff, Dandy & Black Beauty (or Bill and Maude) as the horses’ names, the episode when the book wagon was mistaken for a hearse! Author Sharlee Glenn’s charming narrative and the vast array of attractive artifacts take the reader into Miss Titcomb’s era with vivacity. The author appears to share Miss Titcomb’s attributes of determination and ingenuity. Brava!

In a day and age when many people are looking for examples of strong women, here is an excellent one. Mary Titcomb was an unsung innovator who was dedicated to helping all the people in her library's jurisdiction have access to books--no matter how far away they lived. Her passion for books led to generations of people having access to books where they otherwise wouldn't have. Mary ends up feeling like a friend.The book itself is gorgeous, using period photos in a handmade, scrapbook type feel. I also love that this book is so substantial--its thick and has more pages than an average children's book. I found myself fascinated with the information (so much so I was even scouring the footnotes!).I bought a copy for my mother-in-law too. She is going to love it!

Before reading this book, I didn’t know anything about Mary Lemist Titcomb. After reading it, I feel deep appreciation and admiration for her. I feel inspired by this remarkable woman whose important contributions have been so overlooked. I greatly enjoyed reading about this “unsung heroine” and learning about the history behind the bookmobile. In addition to being an easy read full of interesting information, it is an absolutely beautiful book. I loved the design and the many beautiful historical photographs. This book is a treasure that I look forward to sharing with my daughters.

I was certain I'd appreciate the story of Mary Titcomb after learning the tiniest bit about her, but I had no idea how stunningly beautiful this book would be! The attention to detail makes a hardcopy of this book a necessity. I loved it so much that I ordered a second copy to gift to the librarian at my school! It is a delightful story that deserves to be amplified. The example of Mary Lemist Titcomb and her indomitable persistence, woven by Ms. Glenn's masterful storytelling is one for all ages and stages. She is an American worthy of our time and attention. Brava!

I saw this book in a waiting room and liked it so much that i decided to buy it. It talks about the history of Book Mobiles and the woman who started them. It is very interesting if you have any interest in books and or libraries.