Translation guide
A service that brings books to people, often using a vehicle. In Japanese, this is typically expressed as a compound noun describing the vehicle or the service.
A library on wheels that travels to communities, schools, or remote areas.
Standard term for a mobile library service using a vehicle. Literally 'mobile library'.
The mobile library comes to my neighborhood every Tuesday.
Emphasizes the circuit or巡回 (patrol) aspect. Slightly more formal, often used in official contexts.
Literally 'automobile library'. An older or more traditional term, sometimes used for smaller-scale services.
The mobile library visits schools in the mountainous region.
The actual vehicle used to transport and lend books.
A library service accessible via mobile devices or the internet.
Refers to a digital library, often accessible online. Not specifically 'mobile' but commonly used for mobile-accessible services.
This digital library can also be used from your smartphone.
Direct translation, used for apps or services specifically designed for mobile devices.
If you're talking about the physical vehicle, 移動図書館車 is precise. In everyday speech, 移動図書館 is sufficient and widely understood.
The phrase 'モバイルライブラリー' is not commonly used in Japanese. Stick to the established terms above.
The city's mobile library provides services even to remote areas.
Loanword from English 'bookmobile'. Common in casual contexts or branding.
The library's bookmobile is parked at the park.
You can borrow books with the mobile library app.