ABC Express, a KCLS book bus was sidelined, after the library system discovered its employees needed commercial licenses to drive it. - Contributed
Contributed
ABC Express, a KCLS book bus was sidelined, after the library system discovered its employees needed commercial licenses to drive it.

License problem sidelines KCLS book bus

By CELESTE GRACEY
Issaquah Reporter Staff Writer
August 2, 2012 · 1:40 PM

Rather than paying for commercial drivers licenses to pilot its 8-year-old book bus, the King County Library System is considering buying smaller vehicle for $300,000.

Its staff had been driving the Library2Go bus for a few years, before it discovered that Washington had changed its laws about what needs a commercial license. It was the only vehicle sidelined.

It would cost thousands each year to pay for the CDL licenses, said Nancy Smith, director of outreach services. "We didn't really want to get into that business."

The system hasn't officially decided on the new book van. It would likely be discussed for next year's budget. It's been juggling its other vans to fill in the service gaps.

Most of KCLS's libraries on wheels are used for early literacy. They stop by daycares to encourage kids to check out books. It also have a number of computer lab trucks, which offer traveling computer classes.

Contact Issaquah Reporter Staff Writer Celeste Gracey at cgracey@issaquahreporter.com or 425-391-0363.

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