Call it a bookmobile for the 21st century.
The City of Chattanooga’s Office of Early Learning literally is rolling out what it calls “a warm, welcoming space on wheels” that will serve as a mobile library, a mobile safe space, and a mobile family resource center, designed to support children and families across the city.”
A ribbon-cutting celebration for what will be known as Sawubona (Zulu greeting meaning “I see you, I value you, you are important to me”) will be Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at First Horizon Pavilion, 1826 Reggie White Blvd.
The goal of the book bus, according to a news release, is to travel to neighborhoods throughout the city with not only books but services and support.
“Every stop Sawubona makes will spark a new story,” Jaleesa Brumfield, director of the city’s early learning office, said in the release. “Each layer of the bus is intentional. It’s about showing up for our community in the most meaningful ways.”