These days, we can order almost any book in the world straight to our doorstep or simply download them to devices like kindle. This would definitely come in handy in quarantine. But it wasn’t always so. Just a few decades ago, people who lived in villages or remote areas without a library depended on bookmobiles. The mission of these circulating libraries was to make the printed word accessible to everyone.
One of the earliest recorded bookmobiles was the Perambulating Library in Warrington, England 1859. It was a horse-drawn cart and lent about 12,000 books during its first year of service. Bookmobiles did not appear in the US until the early 1900s. Eventually, they were motorized and reached the height of their popularity in the mid-20th century, when they became an everyday part of American life.
Take a look at these 20 nostalgic images of circulating libraries, that will send you back to a time when the world operated much differently.
Image Source: Crossett Library / Flickr
8 Novels Any History Lover Must Read
If you're in the mood for time travel, grab one of these acclaimed and immersive historical novels.
QUIZ: Which Founding Father Were You in a Past Life?
Do you think you were the great George Washington, the confident Thomas Jefferson, or perhaps someone else? Take this personality quiz and find out!
This Street Photographer Left His Grandson a Real Treasure
Dylan Scalet finally had time to digitalize the photographs he inherited from his grandfather during lockdown. What he found was incredible.
You May Know These Photos, but Not Their History...
These photographs are so famous, there is no chance you don't know them. But do you the absolutely incredible stories that led to those moments?
Fall Back in Love With Summer in South California
A retired military man has been documenting his travels to South California for the past two years. Enjoy the coast through his lens- you can really see the love.
Learn All About the History of the English Language
Ever wondered where the English language came from and how it evolved over time? If so, then this is the perfect video for you!
Ever Wonder What People Were Like Thousands of Years Ago?
Some of these ancient faces frown and others smile, but together they tell the fascinating history of humanity.
These Archaeological Finds Reveal Incredible Stories
These latest excavations and fascinating finds will fascinate you.
8 Creative Musical Instruments Made from Natural Materials
Here are some wonderful musical instruments that are made of natural materials.
You Need to See This Slingshot Master’s Extreme Accuracy
Watch how a slingshot performer impresses the judges and wows the audience with his incredible skills.
The Incredible Story of a Boy Surviving 49 Days at Sea!
This Indonesian teenager managed to survive almost 50 days at sea while adrift in a floating wooden hut. Learn all about his amazing story here.
These 14 Photos Are All Remarkable For Different Reasons
There are some photos we come across that just compel us to take a second look, and these 14 are no exception. Take a look!
Looking at a 100 Years of High School Fashions...
Here's what high schoolers wore each decade of the 20th century.
12 of the Most Inexplicably Weird Things Ever Discovered
In the world, a lot of discoveries often raise more questions than they answer. Here are 12 of the most inexplicably weird things and places ever found.
Nostalgia: Gorgeous Photos of America in the 1950s
We hope you enjoy these beautiful captures of the 1950s in the USA.
8 Incredible Historical Predictions that Actually Came True
Here, we present some truly remarkable fictional predictions made in history that actually turned out to be true.
How to Detect a Liar, Explained by a Former FBI agent
Former FBI agent explains about deception detection methods, and debunks common myths.
These Supposed Aphrodisiacs Are Just a Waste of Money
Many things that are supposed to be aphrodisiacs are actually no such things. Here are 10 "aphrodisiacs" that are nothing more than a waste of money.
Believe These Myths to Be True? The Facts Are Surprising
Read through 11 common misconceptions, you've likely thought were facts.
Wishing You a GREAT 4th OF JULY! Celebrate America!
Be proud of being an American and share one of these meaningful 4th of July cards with everyone. HAVE A GREAT 4TH OF JULY!
The Apollo Program: A History of Manned Space Missions
Only 12 men have ever stepped foot on the moon. Find out more about their successful moon landings here!
Our World Is Amazing, As These Pictures Will Show You
Although life can get you down sometimes, seeing just one little thing can make all the difference. Here are 20 photos to remind you how awesome our world is.
How Companies Deceive Us All - 20 Pictures
As these 20 pictures prove, companies are constantly lying about the size and the quality of their products through deceptive packaging!
You Will Love This Collection of Rare Historical Photos
This amazing collection of vintage photographs will give you a unique glimpse of the past.
8 Essential Greek Philosophy Books You Shouldn't Miss
Here is your best chance for understanding Greek philosophy and its history.
These 10 Great Podcasts Are a Great Way to Pass the Time
Podcasts have started to increase in popularity, and there are now some brilliant ones around. Here are 10 of the best.
When it Comes to Inventive Solutions, These Guys Are Top!
We all face different issues every day and our solutions to these minor problems vary widely...
These Are the Most Famous Swords Ever Forged!
Check out 8 of the most legendary swords to have ever graced the field of battle!
The Dark and Fascinating History of the Romanov Family
For more than three hundred years, the Romanov family had absolute power over Russia, this is their fascinating story.
Meet the 10 Most Influential Figures of the Renaissance
Learn about the 10 most influential characters from the rebirth of Western civilization, including sculptors, painters, architects, writers, humanists, scientists, and philosophers.
Nostalgia: The Unforgettable Commercials of the 60s & 70s!
These classic television commercials from the 60s and 70s are a must watch!
12 Vintage Christmas Songs That Still Warm Hearts
These classic Christmas songs capture the spirit of the season.
14 Nostalgic Pics to Take You Back to the Good Ol’ Days
These photos will instantly trigger your nostalgia.
This Is What $300,000 Will Buy In 15 Different Countries
If you dream of living overseas, you should know your dream is more attainable than you think. This is what $300,000 would buy you in 15 different countries.
Mark Twain Really Had a Way With Words
These great quotes from Mark Twain are all-time classics, and worth remembering.
20 Surprising Geographical Maps to Ignite Your Curiosity
Discover some amazing and surprising geographical facts with these colorful and fun maps.
The Story of the Roman Atlantis: The Ancient City of Baiae
In this article, we will explore what life was like in Baiae, why the city sank, and its rediscovery by explorers.
6 Creepy Mysteries the World Never Solved
There are some mysteries that, despite scientists’ best attempts, still remain unsolved to this day. Here are 6 such mysteries.
Incredible Maps: The World of Second Languages!
We all know the main languages, but these maps of second languages really surprised me!
24 Classic Books That Give You Important Life Lessons
Here is a look at ten great classic books that have some deep underlying moral lessons for all of us.
Life in Japan is so Interesting! Want to Know About It?
Japan has a number of cultural differences. Here are 15 intriguing facts about this countries.
15 Latin Phrases We Use to This Day Without Even Realizing
As an English, speaker you likely know more Latin than you ever thought you did. Just look at these 15 Latin phrases and see if you know what they mean...
If You Want a Smile, This Video Will Give it To You!
Watch this video to add some sugar to your day.
Listen to the Enchanting Notes of the World's Oldest Songs
In this article, we will be talking about the oldest known pieces of music ever found.
I Wish They Taught Me These Math Tips at School
Bad at math? Learn how to use these quick and easy methods.
This Triple Spiral Domino Is Driving the Internet WILD!
Hevesh5 is a professional domino artist that is tearing the internet apart with this amazing display! I have never seen anything like this!
Nostalgia: 50 Beautiful Faces We'll Never Forget...
Nostalgic faces from the golden ages to the modern ages.