By: Madeline Ewanyshyn
When I was asked to interview community hero, Mo (The Library on the Go), I was simply delighted. We meet outside the Coquitlam Public Library’s garage on a sunny Saturday. Mo drinks a steaming cup of motor oil, while I sip at my cappuccino. I admire Mo’s flashy coat of paint displaying the library’s logo. No one could wear it so well.
Interviewer: How are you today, Mo? You’re looking great.
Mo: Stop, you’re making me blush. I’m feeling fabulous this morning. On Saturdays, I go to Cottonwood Park and, with weather like this, I know it’s going to be a wonderful day.
Interviewer: That’s wonderful. You have so many fans, but for any new admirers, why don’t you share a little bit about yourself and a day in your life?
Mo: I’d be happy to. As you know, I’m a mobile library vehicle. That means I connect the community with their public library! I visit lots of different parks and community hotspots. You can read my schedule here to stay informed.
My day starts out when I’m woken up by one of my friends- Sal, Andrea, or Donna. I rev my engine as the garage door opens, and I’m ready to go. We arrive at our location, and I park myself somewhere comfortable. Friends of all ages come to visit me and borrow my books.
Interviewer: But you don’t just have books on board, right?
Mo: That’s right! I also carry DVDs and lendable technology like binoculars, Ozobots, and telescopes. Whatever you can get at the main branches of the library, you can get from me. Just ask one of my friends at the library to place a hold for you, and come pick it up at one of my many locations.
While driving, I have so much fun. I like it when Sal plays country music on my radio and we sing along together. When I’m hungry, we stop at a gas station. That always fills me right up. My favourite part of the job is getting to meet so many people in the community. I hear their stories and share mine with them too!
When we’re all done for the day, I drive back to the garage at the City Centre branch, and my friends unload all the returned books from the day. It feels great to take the load off. By this point, I’m ready to head back to sleep.
Interviewer: Wow, that sounds like a tiring but rewarding day.
Mo: It sure is. I love my job. Someday soon I might retire to make room for a newer, bigger model. But until then, I will continue to serve my community!
Interviewer: As we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share?
Mo: I have some exciting news. My little brother Pop will be joining me on the job soon. His name is short for “Pop Up Vehicle”. You’ll see him around town visiting events and parks, just like me. But instead of carrying books, Pop will carry my friends at Coquitlam Public Library so they can spread joy in the community.
Interviewer: Thank you for that, Mo. I wish you all the best.
Driving away, Mo gives me a friendly honk. In all my years as a journalist, I’ve never met such a good-natured automobile. You can follow Mo’s adventures @libraryonthego on Instagram, or learn more on our website.