New Harris Mobile Library Vehicle

A new mobile library has gone into service this summer. The new vehicle will serve the population of Harris and the Lochs area of Lewis. It is broadly similar in design to the 16 year old vehicle it has replaced, but features a brighter, lighter interior, adjustable shelving, and warm air heating in the shelved area. The new vehicle also has a hydraulic step lift, which can be adjusted to accommodate wheelchair access if required.

Murdo John Mackenzie, the library assistant/driver said: “This is a good vehicle to drive, and we’re getting used to operating the step lift now. I’m sure that the people of Harris and Lochs will be pleased with the new van, and will continue to support the service. We’ve got quite a few new books now which will also please our customers.”

Malcolm J Graham, Chair of the Arts and Leisure Committee said: “The new Harris Mobile is proof of the Comhairle’s commitment to the Mobile Library service, and to sustaining communities in these islands. The Mobile Library service plays its part in maintaining the independence of people who are housebound or living in rural and remote communities.”

Background

The Public Library Service caters for the educational, recreational, cultural and information needs of its customers. The Mobile Library takes this service into the very heart of rural and remote communities. It also provides this service to the elderly and housebound, and it offers a valuable service to schools in support of the curriculum. The Harris Mobile also visits residential homes and the housebound in the Stornoway area.

The new vehicle offers a wide range of books for adults and children, in English and in Gaelic. Customers are able to borrow music CDs, videos, and Spoken Word cassettes. Although the selection may be small, about 1800 items, the full range of books and audiovisual materials within the library service is available through the request service.

In 2003-04

21000 books were borrowed from the Harris Mobile Library.
7000 books were circulated to schools.
750 CDs, videos, and Spoken Word cassettes were borrowed.
3500 stops were made in communities.
9000 visits were made to the Harris Mobile.
2100 enquiries were received.

The new Harris Mobile Library vehicle will be on display 9.00-9.30am prior to the start of Arts & Leisure Committee on Tuesday 31 August.
You are invited to send a representative.

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk