Libraries Outside of the Box: Serving Pima County with a Bus, Mail, and Giving Books Away

• Learn about unorthodox ways to serve library patrons
• Learn about the successes and struggles of running unorthodox libraries
• Consider potential implementation in your area

Sam recently graduated from library school in Texas. He’s spent years working in archives and special collection because he loves learning about the past. He likes to try new things and enjoys doing things differently than most. He is enthused about recently establishing a board game collection at Valencia Library in Tucson. He hopes Readrunners continues to expand and help those in need. 

Diane started with Pima County Public Library in 1995. Over the years she has worked for 16 of the 27 branches in the Pima County Public Library as a circulation clerk, library associate, circulation manager, and a Baby time presenter. Diane arrived at Readrunners a few months before the pandemic. The program continues to go through changes and adapt to a new world. But one thing stays the same, and that is how much people appreciate this program and are so grateful for the care we provide through providing library materials and kindness. 

Wade is celebrating 47 years this summer with the Pima County Public Library. Wade has held a variety of positions in both circulation and reference classifications. The last 30 of those years have been on the Bookmobile. Wade is an avid reader which helps greatly in making recommendations on books to customers.