It never occurred to me that being born in 1910 would be a great idea. Until today!!!

A new friend in an ‘artsy community’ that I joined on Facebook, posted a surprising article.  It was called “Female Librarians on Horseback Delivering Books, circa 1930s“.

President Roosevelt wanted to assist with the Great Depression of the 1930s. His Works Progress Administration created the Pack Horse Library Initiative.  It would increase Americans’ literacy so they’d have a better chance of finding employment.

WOW – now that would have been the best job ever for me!   Horses and books all rolled into exciting adventure.  Not to mention helping people in remote communities become better educated.  This would make a terrific Hollywood adventure movie.

Look at these great archival photos. 

They’re amazing.  The quality is top notch, taken on archival film cameras.

Imagine the number of children and adults whose lives were enhanced with this service

Because the areas were so remote – the risks were high for both the riders and the horses.

In fact, on some occasions, the riders had to dismount and finish the last part of the journey on foot.

You can click on the link below to view the article with more great photos. 

Click here to view the History Daily article titled

“Female Librarians on Horseback Delivering Books, ca. 1930s“

I’d be curious to know any experience you had with any kind of bookmobile – four legged or otherwise.  How did books come into your life?  Please share your experiences or those of any relatives.  Book lovers always enjoy hearing stories, especially involving books and horses!!   I’m waiting to see your comments in the section below.