The two new mobile libraries will be eagerly set off on Monday 6 December.
Michelle Sweeney, Director of Creative Development at OnFife, said: “They look fantastic – like little rays of sunshine that will make you smile when you see them on the road – and the selections of books for all ages will impress even the most avid of readers.
“Our old vehicles had come to the end of the road but getting new vans delivered, decorated and ready to go during a pandemic hasn’t been without its challenges. It’s a testament to the determination of staff at OnFife and Fife Council that we’re now ready to roll.”
Convener of Fife Council’s Community and Housing Services sub committee Cllr Judy Hamilton said: “It’s a great pleasure to welcome this £280,000 investment by Fife Council in two new mobile libraries, operated by OnFife on our behalf.
“I met with OnFife to see and launch the new libraries that will replace the older vehicle. They have a very visible and eye-catching design – give them a wave when you see them in your community.
“These new and smaller vehicles will be able to access more communities and ensure that library services in Fife continue to be free, fair and accessible to everyone.”
The new vehicles have disabled access so everyone can come aboard. As well as a large selection of books for all ages there are talking and large print books.
Mobile libraries are a great way to make sure everyone can pick up a good read. If you can’t get to one of our main libraries, we will make sure the library gets to you.
Michelle added: “When you see one of the mobiles in your community, come aboard – we’re really looking forward to seeing customers old and new. Why not take a selfie with one of them and share with our social media, we’d love to see you.”
When the mobile library service came to a standstill during lockdown, team members kept mobile customers supplied with reading materials with a simple alternative in the form of bags of books delivered regularly by transit van, with customers able to request specific titles.
Customers were delighted to still receive the service. Feedback included:
“What a great service. An absolute lifesaver in these difficult times.”
“I just wanted to acknowledge the excellent service. Always friendly, professional and helpful.”
“Thank you for keeping the service going through the pandemic. The staff have been so helpful and provided a really good service.”
“Many thanks for keeping us supplied with reading matter for the last 18 months. It has been very much appreciated and has helped us through this awful pandemic.”
The routes will be those in place before the pandemic and customers can find all the details on a new Facebook page, at www.onfife.com or at local libraries. You can also email mobile.libraryeast@onfife.com or mobile.westcentral@onfife.com.
