New vehicle keeps rural library service moving!

19 Mar 2025

A new mobile library van is being prepared to hit the roads of Northumberland – taking books to communities across the county – thanks to an investment of £225,000 by the County Council.

The smart new vehicle is being fitted with bespoke Northumberland livery and will soon be filled with books and ready to go – meaning residents of the most remote areas of the county will have access to a lending library on their doorstep.

The mobile library will cater for all ages, from children's books, adult fiction and non-fiction to large print and audio materials for those with visual impairments and has a built-in lift for disabled people.

Northumberland County Councillor Jeff Watson, Cabinet Member for Healthy Lives, said: “A great mobile library service has been highlighted as a ‘must have’ by residents – and we all know picking up a good book keeps folk entertained, enriched and engaged.

“The mobile service is designed to reach residents who don’t have easy access to our branch libraries, such as people with mobility issues or young children.

“People look forward to the library visits, which also help to stop isolation and loneliness by offering a chance for social interaction.

“Staff are also trained to look out for signs that someone may need support and to pass on details to the relevant partners.

“This mobile library is more than just books on wheels – it’s about bringing people together, encouraging learning, and offering vital services to those who need them most – so I’d say it is a great investment.”

A previous consultation found that 77pc of respondents agreed that visits from the mobile library made them feel less lonely, and felt that the strengths of the service were the staff, access to a broad selection of books, and the reliability of a regular service.

The mobile library service operates on a rotating schedule - stopping at villages and hamlets on a regular basis. The addition of the new vehicle also offers the opportunity to revise routes to take in new housing development in isolated areas.

It is expected the additional mobile library will be seen out and about in Northumberland on its routes around the county  from April, with a full timetable and route information due to be published soon.