Media Contact:
Liz Cooper 
770-570-7322

MONROE, N.C. (April 22, 2025) – Union County Library unveiled a new mobile outreach library vehicle, OLiVe, during a festive anniversary celebration on Saturday, April 12, at the Southwest Regional Library. The event marked one year since the library opened its doors and highlighted a year of growth, innovation and expanded community access to resources.

OLiVe — short for Outreach Library Vehicle — was on full display during the event, showcasing how Union County is bringing books, technology, programs, and Wi-Fi access directly to neighborhoods. The new vehicle is part of the library’s commitment to improving accessibility and reaching residents who may not be able to visit a library branch.

“OLiVe represents the future of how we serve Union County — meeting people where they are,” said Library Director Nina Chaffin. “Whether it’s bringing story time to a park or offering Wi-Fi in a remote area, this vehicle helps us connect and engage in new ways.”

The celebration also included the dedication of two new outdoor features at the library: a Story Walk and a Literacy at Play space. Both attractions were made possible by generous donations through the Union County Library Foundation, which continues to play a vital role in supporting innovation and access within the library system.

More than 300 attendees enjoyed family-friendly activities such as games, crafts and educational stations that highlighted the wide range of resources available at the Southwest Regional Library. The 19,000-square-foot facility, which opened to the public on April 19, 2024, has become a hub for learning, exploration and connection in western Union County.

Learn more about the Union County Library and OLiVe’s outreach schedule on the Library website at uclnc.org. For ways to support the Union County Library Foundation, visit uclibraryfoundation.org.

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