Wiltshire Council launches new mobile library vehicles to improve rural access
Two new vehicles aimed at enhancing library services for rural communities and care homes are being rolled out in Wiltshire
Wiltshire Council has launched two new mobile library vehicles to improve access to library services for residents in rural areas and those living in care homes or supported housing.
The new vehicles will be used to provide mobile library services to 318 locations across the county, offering residents who may not have easy access to a physical library the opportunity to borrow books and access resources.
The move is part of Wiltshire Council's ongoing efforts to reduce barriers to reading and learning, ensuring that all residents can enjoy access to library facilities. The new vehicles include wheelchair-accessible lifts, adjustable suspension for kerbside access, and low-energy lighting, and will replace older models that had been in service for over 15 years.
Cllr Mel Jacob, Deputy Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Communities, Engagement, and Corporate Services, said:
“In a rural county such as ours I am delighted that Wiltshire Council can enable the next generation of mobile libraries to take library services and information into our communities.
Whether you are a new parent with a baby in the village, or an elderly person in a care home, or anyone who might find it difficult to travel far from home, the new mobile libraries will help us realise our strategic vision to reach people in and close to their homes, reducing the need to travel to access library services.”
One of the vehicles will serve the northern part of the county from Chippenham, while the second vehicle —dedicated as the Homes Mobile Library— will be based in Warminster, focusing on care homes and supported housing schemes.