New Mobile Library Brings Literature to Communities (Milton Keynes Liberal Democrats)

Milton Keynes Liberal Democrats <info@mk-libdems.co.uk>

New Mobile Library Brings Literature to Communities

December 13, 2009 2:28 PM

Milton Keynes Mayor, Councillor Euan Henderson, has launched the new mobile library. The new vehicle is both larger and more accessible than the old one, which has been serving the community for over ten years.

The new mobile library has the Council's distinctive livery and a specially designed lift to help those with limited mobility. It is also much wider, to allow easier access, with a bright and cheerful interior with shelves full of books, music and films. The books include large print, spoken word, board books for children and non-fiction. Staff can use the internet-linked computer to provide information for customers as well as to search the library catalogue and issue books.

The mobile library visits 69 stops in 54 different areas around the Borough, including 11 schools and early years settings, 27 sheltered housing schemes and residential homes, and 12 villages. Books remain the most popular resource, with crime and romance being the favourite genres. The most popular book borrowed by adult customers in the last six months is Peter Robinson's crime novel "All colours of the darkness".

In launching the new mobile, Cllr Henderson said: "The mobile library is a vital link for the people of the Borough. It delivers a service to those people who are less able to travel to one of the Council's branch libraries. For many older people, it is a lifeline providing access to materials and a friendly welcome from staff."

Liberal Democrat councillor Vanessa McPake, cabinet member for the library service, said: "I know that our customers are very pleased that we have this new mobile library which is so much more accessible and better than the old one."