Ivy nodded her approval. The professional librarian in Libby was taking over.
She outlined her proposal with increasing confidence. She spoke of how her bookmobile would visit neighborhoods on a rotating schedule to bring books, internet access, and programming to all sections of Summer Beach.
“I’ve compiled data showing that communities with mobile library services see improved literacy rates and community engagement.” She paused to distribute folders to the council members.
Bennett flipped through the material with a thoughtful expression. “This is impressive research. Have you worked with mobile libraries before?”
“Yes, Mayor Dylan. Before arriving in Summer Beach, I was employed as a research librarian and an outreach coordinator, managing a bookmobile that served surrounding rural neighborhoods.”
Ivy felt a flutter of pride. Libby hadn’t mentioned this experience to her.
A councilwoman with bold black glasses frowned. “The proposal looks interesting, but where would new books come from?”
“I’m accepting donations to cover the cost. In fact, some here have already pledged support for new books. I’m also helpingthe Seabreeze Inn managers organize an annual book festival. The goal is to raise funds for books to augment my existing collection and eventually become part of a library collection.”
One councilman shook his head with exasperation. “We have already addressed the library request. The city doesn’t have the budget. Now or in the future.”
“May I comment?” Ivy raised her hand, feeling the weight of every gaze in the room.
After Bennett recognized her, she stood and squared her shoulders. “Members of the community are making alternate arrangements to provide a library for Summer Beach residents. The bookmobile is an important interim measure because it might take us a while. But know that we are working on it, no matter how long it takes. Summer Beach will have another library, even if it is a privately supported facility.”
Shaking his head, the last councilman leaned forward again. “A private library? Sounds a little far-fetched to me. Is that even a thing?”
“Actually, I’m very familiar with private libraries,” Libby said. “I interned at the Huntington Library in Pasadena. It’s known for its extensive research collection. It even has the papers of Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. So yes, private libraries area thing. A very good thing.”
A murmur rippled through the audience, followed by spontaneous applause. Ivy glanced at Bennett, whose expression remained neutral, but she caught the flicker of impressed surprise in his eyes.
After the applause subsided, the council members conferred in low voices. Bennett leaned forward, speaking quietly to his colleagues. Ivy couldn’t hear his words, but his body language conveyed support. They held a quick vote.
Bennett turned back to those in attendance. “After consideration, the council approves the bookmobile contract asproposed, with quarterly performance reviews.” He swung his gavel again to adjourn the meeting.
Instant joy transformed Libby’s face. When she returned to Ivy’s side, she squeezed her hand. “I can’t believe it,” Libby said, her voice thick with emotion.
Ivy smiled and hugged her. “Better than the job in Los Angeles, right?”
“So much better,” Libby said, laughing at the tale she had told.
Shelly threw her arms around her. “Way to go. You’re one of us now.”
“This is just the beginning,” Ivy said, pleased at the growing support in the community.
Bennett joined them. He leaned in, whispering to Ivy. “How about another date night?”
“I have to meet Forrest and Reed at the house,” she replied. “My brother is doing a walk-through.”
“Mind if I join you?”
“I never mind. Let’s go.”
They left Libby to bask in the glow of her bookmobile victory, surrounded by Poppy, Shelly, and plenty of new supporters.
Bennett fellinto an easy pace beside Ivy, catching her hand in his. “I’m curious to see how the renovation is progressing.”
“So am I,” she said, clasping his hand. “Reed’s been sending photos, but they don’t capture the whole transformation.”
“Unlike you, who sees the potential in everything.”
His compliment warmed her. “Libby surprised me, though. When she first arrived, I wasn’t sure what to think, but she turned out to be a rock star.”
