SIDNEY -- The Sidney City Council March 25 was asked to consider purchasing a new bookmobile.

The tradition of a bookmobile is to act as an extension of the library, bringing books to outlying communities and schools. City Manager David Scott said the program offers services that may not otherwise be available to some communities.

"With the use of this bookmobile, the City library can provide vital services and programs to several communities throughout the county that might not otherwise be able to receive these important services," Scott said.

The city council has been approached before with a proposal to purchase a new bookmobile. The continuing question is funding. Between library fund raising and local grants, an estimated $125,000 has been raised. Scott said City staff has contacted a company that can assemble a 26-foot book mobile, with 30,000 miles on the chassis, for an estimated $175,000 to $195,00, much less than a new book mobile. 

Scott estimates a bookmobile fitting Sterling's needs would cost about $182,000. He said a new bookmobile can cost between $300,000 and $500,000, "depending on what bells and whistles you want."  The motivation is the cost of upkeep on the current bookmobile.

"The current bookmobile is over 30 years old. Repair parts are expensive, and if you can even find them. Last year we incurred repair bills of $6,362, $17,491. Among other smaller repairs, these include radiator, injectors, exhaust hose, headers, rear main seal, clutch hub, water gauge," Scott said.

He said the current bookmobile also needs interior work including shelving and the driver's seat. He said the City does have about $10,000 from abandoned vehicle auctions that can be used, leaving a balance of about $47,000. Sidney's current  bookmobile has no trade-in value. Additionally, the city council could choose to apply the $32,777 ACE donation presented Tuesday as well.

Council discussed options on design of a bookmobile and design. The concept of a bookmobile trailer pulled by a pickup was also discussed. One requirement is a bookmobile must have a lift for mobility-challenged patrons. 

The Sidney bookmobile has easy-readers for children, juvenile-age books, fiction and non-fiction, adult, audio and braille editions.

Library staff were asked if a new bookmobile, regardless how new, will be used in 30 years, comparing the lifespan of the current bookmobile. Part of the question is if society will continue to be drawn to bookmobiles.

The council voted to table the decision on a bookmobile to the next council meeting.