Mary Lemist Titcomb was a pioneering librarian at the turn of the 20th century, when public libraries were first appearing in America. Believing strongly in the power of books, especially for children in far-flung places, she invented America’s first Bookmobile: a horse-drawn, specially constructed book-wagon to bring books to remote farms in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Her triumphs over prejudice and disaster resulted in nationwide bookmobile programs that continue to affect the lives of millions globally.

*Correction–in this episode Glenn stated that Titcomb was only four feet tall. She misspoke, Titcomb was actually five feet tall.

Katie inverviews Sharlee Mullins Glenn, award-winning author of Library on Wheels: Mary Lemist Titcomb and America’s First Bookmobile, and many other books, and is the founder and former president of Mormon Women for Ethical Government.

Music featured in this episode by Marc Nelson, Andy Reiner, Jon Sousa, Jeff Cuno, Darol Anger, Bruce Molsky, and the Berklee World Strings.

Want to help us “make history”? Become a Patron or Donate here!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices