On March 25, the Lexington County Public Library system held a ribbon cutting for a new mobile library called Nova, bringing the system's fleet to two.

Miles, the first mobile library who joined in 2021, and the new addition Nova, are buses transformed into libraries with shelves lining the walls and a computer to help visitors find what they are looking for. Both outsides feature a fun colored gradient with white doodles across the bus.

Melaney Torcoletti, mobile library manager, said that the fleet is focused on the underserved residents within the community who do not have access to library services whether it be due to physical, economical, social or geographical barriers.

“Our mission and really our passion is to provide people of all ages and abilities access to library services,” she said. “It's not just books; it's audio, databases, programs for school, work, research, technology businesses, small businesses and acquiring new skills that give each individual in Lexington County the tools to succeed.”

Torcoletti explained that each bus has a different goal in mind, with Miles being focused on younger patrons of the library and Nova focused on adults, people with disabilities and seniors. Nova features a lift that can be used to cart books on and off the bus or provide a way for a wheelchair user to go into the library.

Kelly Poole, library director, said that these mobile libraries travel across the county, adding that you might see it in your neighborhood, at your church, child care center, senior center or even at small businesses.

Former board member Louise Riley dreamed of having five mobile libraries, Poole said, adding that this “nugget” helped the library system grow the mobile library to what it is today.