San Mateo County Libraries is rolling into the New Year with a pilot program that allows cardholders to check out a bicycle.
Book-A-Bike launched as a pilot program at Belmont Library on Jan. 6 and allows adult cardholders to rent a bike with a valid library card.
Four low-maintenance bicycles purchased for the program are loaned out and due back the same day, 30 minutes prior to closing. They come equipped with a helmet with a GoPro mount, a basket for cargo, a bike light, a bike lock, and first aid kit. Bicycle components include a carbon drive belt, three speed internal gear hub, and flat free tires.
Patrons must sign an online waiver and can fetch the helmet and key to unlock the bike from the Library’s front desk.
San Mateo County Libraries says it has become one of just a handful of library systems in the nation to offer bicycles for free checkout.
Book-A-Bike derived from the Libraries’ Pitch-It contest, where staff propose news ideas for the library system and vote to implement their favorite. The idea was pitched by Community Technology Specialist David Vargas.
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