County Library cruises into High Desert community with inaugural Read, Write & Cruise Car Show

"San Bernardino County Update", yellow arrowhead and "SBCounty.gov

A bright coral vintage hot rod with its hood open, displaying a polished chrome engine, parked at an outdoor car show with other classic vehicles in the background.

Vintage black steampunk-style car with brass fixtures, red leather interior, and exposed pipes displayed at a sunny outdoor auto show.

Classic car show in a sunny park: a green vintage coupe with its hood open sits beside yellow and red cars, creating a lively scene.

Smiling family of four poses beside a community booth with a small dog in front, under a sunny outdoor canopy; cheerful festival atmosphere.

Sunny outdoor classic car show featuring a red-and-white vintage station wagon, polished cars, palm trees, and a lively crowd.

The San Bernardino County Library put literacy in the fast lane Saturday as classic cars, rock ‘n’ roll and Route 66 nostalgia rolled into the Hesperia Branch Library for the inaugural Read, Write & Cruise Car Show.

Held Saturday, Aug. 8, the free community event drew over 600 visitors and showcased over 60 classic, custom and specialty vehicles, giving car enthusiasts and families plenty of reasons to get their kicks while celebrating the legendary highway that has helped shape San Bernardino County’s automotive history.

The day officially got rolling with a flag ceremony presented by the High Desert District-California Inland Empire Council (CIEC), setting the stage for an afternoon of cars, community and family fun. Scouts remained on-site throughout the event, offering children of all ages the opportunity to experience the excitement of Pinewood Derby racing and put their own need for speed to the test.

“Read, Write & Cruise allowed us to shift gears and showcase the library in a fun and unexpected way,” said County Librarian Melanie Orosco. “Seeing generations come together over classic cars, music and family activities was a wonderful reminder that libraries are places where communities connect and memories are made.”

The sounds of classic rock filled the air with a live performance by The Cover Ups, providing the perfect soundtrack as visitors cruised through rows of polished classics and one-of-a-kind custom vehicles.

There was plenty happening beyond the horsepower. San Bernardino County Animal Care brought some four-legged passengers along for the ride, offering dog adoptions and helping connect pets with potential forever homes. Families also enjoyed face painting, balloon creations, tasty treats and food vendors, along with community partners and activities throughout the day.

The event turned the page on a new chapter in library programming by bringing together literacy, entertainment and Southern California’s deep-rooted car culture. Vehicle owners also competed for one of 10 Awards of Excellence, with the winners cruising home with trophies and some well-earned bragging rights.

As Route 66 celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026, the event offered a timely opportunity to celebrate the Mother Road and its enduring connection to San Bernardino County. For generations, Route 66 has brought travelers through the region, connecting communities and creating memories along the way.

The library extends its appreciation to the vehicle owners, High Desert District-CIEC, The Cover Ups, San Bernardino County partners, vendors, volunteers and staff who helped put the event in motion and ensured the inaugural Read, Write & Cruise Car Show crossed the finish line in style.

With the first Read, Write & Cruise now in the rearview mirror, the County Library looks forward to keeping the momentum going with innovative programs that bring residents together and connect them with everything their local library has to offer.

For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries serving a diverse population across a vast geographic area. The County Library is committed to providing equitable access to information, technology, programs and services for all San Bernardino County residents.

Additional County Update News – August 13, 2026