<![CDATA[Background of the Study: Community literacy is a fundamental driver of regional development. Nevertheless, unequal access to information and educational resources remains prevalent in suburban and marginalized areas of Makassar, where conventional library services are often inaccessible. Mobile libraries have emerged as an effective non-formal education strategy to reduce literacy gaps by extending educational services directly to underserved communities. Objectives: This study analyzes the strategic role of mobile libraries in strengthening community literacy and examines their social, cultural, and economic contributions while identifying operational challenges and sustainability strategies. Method: A qualitative case study design was employed. Data were collected through non-participant observation, in-depth interviews with eight key informants, and document analysis. Data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model, while credibility was ensured through source and method triangulation. Finding: Mobile libraries substantially increased reading interest while improving functional and digital literacy. They also served as inclusive community spaces that strengthened social cohesion, preserved local wisdom through contextual storytelling, and promoted knowledge-based economic empowerment by providing access to entrepreneurship and agricultural information. However, their effectiveness was constrained by outdated collections, inadequate vehicle maintenance, shortages of trained facilitators, and heavy dependence on municipal funding. Conclusion: Mobile libraries function beyond book lending by serving as catalysts for community empowerment. Their long-term sustainability requires a collaborative pentahelix approach integrating digital transformation, mobile e-library services, and multi-stakeholder partnerships to foster an inclusive, literate, and globally competitive society.]]>
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