Bookmobile Project Gaining Traction

The Bookmobile as it was when it was new in 1964. Photo courtesy of the Ephraim Historical Society.

The Door County Bookmobile initiative continues to gain traction as it gets closer to the public unveiling during an Aug. 19 community celebration at Sawyer Farms in Egg Harbor. The full restoration of the vehicle’s exterior began in April at Reese’s Body Shop in Sturgeon Bay. 

To date, the committee led by Egg Harbor Historical Society member Carey Bertschinger and volunteer John Sawyer has raised $140,000 of a $500,000 goal to rebuild the Bookmobile and fund its initial programming and operations. 

“Every time we talk to somebody who remembers the Bookmobile as a kid, they just light up with memories,” Bertschinger said. “For most in the community, a visit from the Bookmobile was the highlight of their week. I know it was the highlight of mine, and that’s one of the reasons why I am so committed to it now.” 

The Heritage Alliance of Door County met in May to gather input regarding the needs and potential for the Bookmobile during a session facilitated by Drew Richmond of TwentySix Professional Coaching. The three pillars of the Bookmobile are history, education and community.

“Preserving and sharing Door County history has been a primary objective for the Bookmobile since the Egg Harbor Historical Society purchased it back in 2014,” Sawyer said. “Today we know that education, and specifically literacy, need more attention than ever before. If we can utilize this Bookmobile as a way to get kids and adults excited about reading and connect the communities together, then we will deliver our mission.”

The free event on Aug. 19, 2-8 pm, will include a pig roast, history presentations, live music, auctions and the unveiling of the refurbished Door County Bookmobile.Donate, volunteer and learn more about the Bookmobile at bookmobiledoorcounty.org.