New Braunfels Public Library will be replacing its mobile library system, RIOmobile, with a new mobile outreach program called Library Express, according to a news release.

Some context

According to the New Braunfels Public Library Foundation website, the RIOmobile provided books and materials to children, seniors and individuals with limited mobility. The bookmobile featured a 3,000 book capacity, custom book carts, solar panels, LED lighting, wifi and an ADA lift.

The RIOmobile program was created to expand library services while there was only one operating library location in the city, the news release states. Since the program’s creation, additional libraries have been launched in the community.

The Westside Library & Community Center opened in October 2023 and the Southeast Library Branch is expected to open in the next few years.
The new project will be replacing the RIOmobile which was created to support community needs while the city had only one library location. (Courtesy of the city of New Braunfels)
The new project will be replacing the RIOmobile which was created to support community needs while the city had only one library location. (Courtesy of the city of New Braunfels)
About the program


The library’s RIOrover Ford Transit van will be refurbished to become the new mobile library program. The new vehicle is smaller than the previously used RIOmobile but the service will still promote mobile programming, educate individuals about eLibrary services and deliver services to seniors who are unable to visit the library.

“After careful consideration and evaluation of the community’s needs, we have made the decision to retire the RIOmobile and transition to a more versatile vehicle,” New Braunfels Library Director Cole Johnson said in the news release. “The RIOmobile served admirably, bringing library services to those with limited access and we are incredibly grateful to the New Braunfels Public Library Foundation for making that program a reality.”

In addition to these services, the Library Express will travel to community events, community centers and local parks to promote library collections. Community members can look forward to interactive workshops, story times and literacy programs for children and families, and digital literacy training and support, according to the news release.

“The Library Express will allow us to shift our focus towards promoting digital collections and library services while engaging the community in new ways. We are confident that this new mobile outreach strategy will allow us to reach more people, provide more relevant services, and have an even greater impact on the community,” Johnson said.


Stay tuned

The city hopes to launch the new program later this year, according to the news release.