Podcast - High-Tech Literacy: Inside the Rutherford County Library System

·40 min·3 clips

Mike Cleaves risked his life driving a donated school bus with faulty brakes over a snowy mountain to start renovating a bookmobile.

The episode begins with Scott Walker introducing guests Mike Cleaves and Trey Gwynn from the Rutherford County Library System. Mike shares a story about driving a donated 2003-2004 school bus to Chattanooga for renovation into a bookmobile, noting the harrowing experience due to brake issues and snow. The conversation then touches on the age of the bus and generational perceptions of time. Mike and Trey discuss the Science Across America program, which aims for 250 local acts of science as part of the U.S. 250th anniversary celebration, emphasizing community participation and data collection. They explore the evolution of libraries from ancient repositories like the Library of Alexandria to modern digital services, including audiobooks and technology access. The hosts delve into the library's 3D printers, detailing their cost, capabilities, and availability for public use with training. Other topics include video game rentals, a craft supply swap event, and Earth Day activities. The episode includes promotional segments and later features updates from library branches, such as new reading challenges for the semi-quincentennial, a free vending machine at Linebaugh Library, and various youth programs. Additional announcements cover changes in library hours, teen club activities, and events at the Technology Engagement Center, like computer classes and a Glowforge orientation. The episode concludes with advertisements from local businesses.

As heard by us

A donated bus and 3D printers make this library conversation feel practical, local, and hands-on.

A snowy drive over Bonneville Mountain gives this Rutherford County Library System conversation a nicely tactile start, as Mike Cleaves recounts taking a donated bus to Chattanooga for weeks of renovation on Bookmobile 2.

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Why you'd press play

Press play for a snowy bus ride and a practical look at how 3D printing can help with small repair parts.

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