Hawaii Literacy is hoping a new chapter can be written for its Classroom on Wheels program and is asking for help.

Hawaii Literacy says its bookmobile — which primarily serves Leeward Oahu children with homework help, reading programs and other literacy-based activities — was forced out of service last month with major mechanical problems. The vehicle has logged more than 200,000 miles.

Last year, more than 15,000 books were checked out of the bookmobile duirng its stops at the Nanakuli Teen Center and Boys and Girls Club, the Waianae Boys and Girls Club and the Kauiokalani, Maililand and Ohana Ola O Kahumana transitional housing centers.

The bookmobile also made stops at seven preschools in the Koolauloa area on the Windward side.

Program coordinator Megan Naihe said Hawaii Literacy is seeking a 21-passenger van, or a converted handi-shuttle with less than 85,000 miles on it. She said the bookmobile also could be resurrected if someone was willing to donate a new engine for the current van, a Ford E350.

"Whether we raise the money through donations, or if a company or a generous person is willing to come forward, we need a reliable 21-passenger style van to continue this important service for Hawaii's keiki," Naihe said in a statement.

Hawaii Literacy said cash donations can be made at Hawaii Self-Storage locations in Kaimuki, Salt Lake, Pearl City, Mililani and Kapolei.

Hawaii Self-Storage, which supports the Classroom on Wheels programs with donations of books, is also accepting gently used books and educational games.

Donations can also be made online at: http://apps.facebook.com/causes/456217