Featured Projects
Fayette County Public Library
Bookmobile & Courier Services Research Project
August-September 2024
Fayette County Public Library (FCPL) sought to maximize the impact of their bookmobile services in a rural Appalachian community where geographic barriers significantly limit library access. FCPL issued an RFP for a consultant to conduct a national landscape analysis and provide strategic recommendations for bookmobile optimization and potential courier service implementation.
Our Approach
LWB US delivered a comprehensive research engagement combining primary and secondary data collection at national scale with deep local analysis.
National Research
We surveyed and interviewed 105 library systems operating bookmobiles across the country, capturing proven strategies, operational models, and lessons learned from diverse geographic and demographic contexts. We also analyzed four national and three local courier service models to evaluate feasibility and implementation pathways.
Local Analysis
We examined FCPL’s existing demographic data, library usage patterns, and service area characteristics to ensure recommendations addressed the specific realities of Fayette County’s communities.
Synthesis Recommendations
We delivered a detailed report with targeted, actionable recommendations for increasing bookmobile effectiveness and evaluating courier model options, grounded in national best practices but calibrated to local capacity and resources.
Results
This project reflects our ability to deliver rigorous, nationally-informed research within tight timelines while producing deliverables that strengthen client positioning with funders. We bring library sector expertise that translates into real strategic advantage.
The Fayette County Director reported that our research directly contributed to securing
Phase II funding from the One Foundation:
“The One Foundation was so impressed with your written report. I believe
your report helped get us into phase II of the grant.”
This engagement has evolved into an ongoing partnership. LWB US is now supporting FCPL’s community partnership development to expand bookmobile usage through a follow-on contract.