Pedaling literacy: Libraries hit the streets this summer with book bikes

Piggie and Gerald are mesmerizing youngsters at outdoor story times as specially customized trikes roll to parks, block parties and neighborhood events.

Several public libraries are “book biking” — yes, actually pedaling while peddling literacy via story times, book giveaways and fun activities outdoors.

Originating around 2012-14, book bikes became “more popular and more widely used” nationally during the pandemic, according to Cathy Zimmerman, executive director of the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach Services.

“Outreach became a topic during the pandemic,” noted the Palatine native.

Book bikes at Elk Grove Village Public Library and Skokie Public Library began full operation in 2021, as did Addison Public Library's “Rolling Reader.” Heading outdoors made sense with fewer patrons heading indoors.

Courtney Lewis, Elk Grove’s early literacy librarian, has pedaled to local parks since August 2021. Her email list alerts parents two days ahead when and where she will appear. The library’s calendar displays the summer schedule, though Lewis acknowledged visits are weather dependent.

Lewis’s earliest visit was April 30 at Marshall Park. About 80 children appeared for story time and a free book, lightening her load back to the library.

Addison Public Library’s Rolling Reader “managed to visit 10 different parks last year, a total of 40 miles traveled,” said Gaby Tafolla, head of community engagement. Lincoln Elementary was its first stop May 22.

Bartlett Public Library debuted its book bike in 2025’s Independence Day parade. Bike handling training is scheduled this spring, according to assistant director Mallory Knapp. “We’re hoping to have it in the parade again, and then attend more community events throughout the rest of summer and into fall,” Knapp said.

Oak Park Public Library operates two book bikes April-October, appearing at more than 100 community events, including schools, parks, block parties, senior centers and businesses. Its library events calendar lists visits through August. Last year 22 staff served as bike riders or buddies, according to Ian Gosse, official Book Bike librarian.

Oak Park’s is likely suburban Chicago’s oldest book bike service with its 2015 purchase of “Paperback Rider.” Visits exceeded 100 by 2017, Gosse said. “Anne of Green Fables” was bought in 2024, an e-bike that makes for easier handling and acceleration.

Gosse, an ABOS board member, has fielded librarian questions from around the region and country about this service. His “book bike starter kit” is available for interested libraries.

New e-bike bill

No longer will e-bikers flip from legal to illegal simply by cruising into the next town.

With the General Assembly’s passage of SB 3336 on May 31, consistent statewide regulation will replace a patchwork of municipal ordinances regarding e-bikes and other electric micromobility devices.

This bill, sponsored by State Sen. Ram Villivalam, State Rep. Barbara Hernandez and Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, and championed by Ride Illinois and Active Transportation Alliance, awaits Gov. JB Pritzker’s signature.

It clarifies what is an e-bike and what isn’t. Defined in the Illinois Vehicle Code, low-speed electric bikes have been legally permitted devices since January 2018. Designated as Class 1, 2 or 3, they all have electric motors under 750 watts and top speeds of 20 mph (Class 1, 2) or 28 (Class 3).

Starting January 2027, this legislation preempts any existing/future local regulations. Any device not low-speed or not fitting the legal e-bike definition is considered a motor driven cycle (e-moto). Requirements for such devices include a driver’s license, registration and insurance.

Statewide consistency

Last summer and fall, the popularity and prevalence of micromobility devices more powerful than e-bikes raised serious safety concerns, revealing a gap in existing policy. The electric micromobility industry had sped ahead of Illinois’s ability to ensure the safe use of these devices on shared trails, paths and roadways. They weren’t even defined in the Illinois Vehicle Code.

Anecdotes of crashes, near-misses and hazardous activities made headlines, pressuring municipal leaders to do something. The result: a myriad quickly approved ordinances addressing the “e-bike problem,” with many ordinances conflating e-bikes with other electric mobility devices.

“We recognized last fall that a statewide approach was necessary,” said Dave Simmons, executive director of Ride Illinois, the state’s nonprofit bike advocacy organization. Discussions with Secretary Giannoulias’s office began last August, as the Secretary of State is responsible for registering and licensing Illinois vehicles.

“We felt we were being proactive with this legislation,” Simmons said about what some consider a catch-up initiative. “This new legislation now provides consistency across the state.”

Among other regulations this legislation:

SB 3336 was backed by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, Illinois Municipal League and the Illinois High School and College Driver Education Association.

‘Stop super speeders’

This bill — HB 4948 — will also make it safer for bike riders and other roadway users. It focuses on motorists with more than one conviction for excessive speeding (26 mph or more above the limit).

With this legislation, offenders can continue driving on a restricted permit provided their vehicle is equipped with Intelligent Speed Assist technology. ISA uses GPS and onboard sensors to prevent speeding. Drivers pay for device installation and usage for a set period, allowing them to meet their daily needs while driving within the speed limit.

• Join the ride. Contact Ralph Banasiak at alongfortheridemail@gmail.com.