Meet RPL GO!
RPL GO! brings Rochester Public Library services directly into the community. Our mobile library visits community organizations, housing communities, parks, and special events throughout Rochester, making it easier for people to connect with library resources, technology, programs, and staff.
Whether you want to browse for a new book, sign up for a library card, get help with technology, or enjoy a library program, RPL GO! brings the library closer to you.
Programs & Services
- Sign up for a library card
- Browse and borrow library materials for all ages
- Get reading recommendations, reference support, and technology assistance from library staff
- Access Wi-Fi, laptops, tablets, and print/scan/fax technology
- Request a program: Our staff can deliver story times, literacy activities, technology training, and more
Who We Serve
RPL GO! prioritizes visits to organizations, community spaces, and events serving people who may experience barriers to accessing traditional library services, including:
- Childcare centers and schools
- Senior living and affordable housing communities
- Organizations serving older adults and people with disabilities
- Nonprofit and community organizations
RPL GO! also offers recurring community stops and participates in special events throughout the City of Rochester.
Site Requirements
Organizations requesting a visit from RPL GO! must:
- Be located within the City of Rochester
- Provide a level parking area with an asphalt, concrete, or compacted gravel surface
- Provide enough space to safely park the vehicle and operate the lift at the rear of the van
- Ensure that additional space is available behind the vehicle for loading and unloading library materials and program supplies
- Have at least one site contact present during the visit to assist our staff
Van dimensions: 19 feet long, 9 feet tall, and 9 feet wide.o support our team.
Request RPL GO!
Interested in bringing RPL GO! to your organization or community?
Use the button below to request a visit. We offer both recurring stops and one-time visits to special community events.
For scheduling purposes, please submit mobile library requests at least four weeks in advance. RPL GO! does not operate on Sundays.
Questions?
Please contact the RPL GO! team at 428-8347
Thanks and Acknowledgments
We couldn’t have launched RPL GO! without the incredible support of our community:
- Kearstin Piper Brown: The idea of a community bookmobile began with her Parent Leader Training Institute program project.
- RIT’s College of Art and Design students: Envisioned the retrofits and van graphics in partnership with RPL staff.
- New York State Senator Jeremy Cooney: Secured funding for the van and retrofits through the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York Municipal Program.
- The Friends and Foundation of the Rochester Public Library: Provided financial support for RIT students to create product prototypes and funded a set of laptops for RPL GO!
- Leroy Cox: Mr. Cox worked as a bookmobile operator for the Rochester Public Library from 1960 until he retired in 1992. He passed away on August 20, 2024, at the age of 87.
Mobile Library Partners
Downloadable content for our mobile library partners:
Printable flyer: Mobile Library Stops Here
