It’s National Library Week, and in Palm Desert, the celebration is rolling—literally.

Gary Shaffer, director of the Palm Desert Library, joined NBC Palm Springs to showcase the library’s mobile unit, affectionately known as “Bob,” short for Books on Board. Bob travels throughout the city, making stops at schools, senior centers, and community events like concerts in the park, providing access to books and library services for residents of all ages.

“Bob is a celebrity in his own right,” Shaffer said with a smile. “People can come by, check out books, get a library card, and discover everything the library has to offer.”

Today’s libraries are far more than book repositories. Shaffer emphasized that a library card now unlocks access to an expansive network of resources, including books from more than 400 libraries across California through the Link Plus system—the only one of its kind in the Coachella Valley. Digital perks also include free subscriptions to major publications like The New York Times.

National Library Week is all about honoring the community. “It’s a time to celebrate our customers, staff, and volunteers,” Schafer said. “And to remind people of the valuable, often free, resources we provide.”

As part of the week’s festivities, Shaffer also teased a major development: a brand-new Palm Desert Library facility is being planned at Civic Center Park. Currently located at the College of the Desert, the new library will be a city-owned space featuring a café, a community room, and upgraded amenities—designed to serve Palm Desert residents for decades to come.

“It’ll really be a jewel for the city,” Shaffer said.

And yes—books can be checked out directly from the mobile library. “We’ll get you checked out right now today,” Shaffer added.

Whether you’re looking for a new novel, digital tools, or a quiet place to read, National Library Week is the perfect time to reconnect with your local library.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.

Palm Desert Library Rolls Into National Library Week with Mobile Unit