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Report regarding a resolution authorizing the acceptance of one electric assist Technology Book Bike valued at $3,650 - $3,800 from the EmPOWERing Access Project, a collaborative initiative supported by the Southern California Library Cooperative and the California State Library. (Adam Elsholz, Assistant Library Director)
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acceptance of one electric assist Technology Book Bike valued at $3,650 - $3,800 from the EmPOWERing Access Project, a collaborative initiative supported by the Southern California Library Cooperative and the California State Library.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
South San Francisco Public Library has been selected to participate in the EmPOWERing Access Project, a California State Library initiative supported by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) under the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). The project aims to increase community access to library resources by eliminating barriers for residents to access library resources, using innovative ways to connect with information and community.
As part of the program, the library will receive one electric-assist Technology Book Bike from the EmPOWERing Access Project, to promote literacy and lifelong learning. A library staff member will work directly with the selected vendor, Haley Tricycles, for local branding preferences and delivery of the book bike.
The book bike will serve as a “library on wheels” outreach resource and will benefit the community by meeting patrons where they are (e.g., “pop up” or story time at schools, parks, community events, and underserved neighborhoods). The “electric assist” book bike feature will allow library staff the ability to issue library cards or check out materials on-site through on-board Wi-Fi hotspots for digital access.
FISCAL IMPACT
The equipment is provided at no cost to the City. Receipt of these funds does not commit the City to ongoing funding other than maintenance, such as battery and tire upkeep, which is expected to be paid for with the Library Department’s existing operating budget.
RELATIONSHIP TO CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES ACTION PLAN
Acceptance of this resolution will contribute to the City Council’s Priorities Action Plan’s Major Focus Area of Welcoming and Connected Community, by providing library and literacy services and resources via community outreach opportunities.
CONCLUSION
Acceptance of this resolution will allow South San Francisco Public Library to increase community outreach and access to library resources. It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acceptance of one electric-assist Technology Book Bike from the EmPOWERing Access Project.