SIDNEY -- The Cheyenne County Commissioners today approved KENO funds in support of a new bookmobile.

The commissioners approved $10,000 for purchase of a bookmobile.

The City of Sidney is seeking a solution to a bookmobile that is becoming increasingly difficult and expensive to maintain. 

The bookmobile in use by the Sidney Public Library is more than 30 years old. City Manager David Scott has said in previous city council meetings the cost of maintaining the bookmobile is the challenge with repairs often costing thousands, if parts are available. 

Scott met with the commissioners asking for the remaining funding to cover purchase of a newer bookmobile. 

" I really appreciate the relationship that the City and the county have. [It's] been very positive, at least from the time that I've been in this position. I'd rather not be here, but it's important enough to the community and surrounding communities within the county. The City has owned and operated a bookmobile for many years with the County's support," he said.

Scott said the bookmobile serves an average of 250 patrons per week. The bookmobile make scheduled stops at Central Elementary School, preschools and daycares, Sloan Estates, Pole Creek Crossing Long Term Care, Potter-Dix schools, county villages, Creek Valley schools and Kimball. 

He said the City found a new design with about 20,000 miles at $200,000; much less than the $300,000 to $500,000 for a new model. He said with fundraising, grants and City sources, they are about $10,000 short. The commissioners voted 3-0 to support the purchase with $10,000 in KENO funds.