Book a van

For many, often hotly debated, reasons, council budgets are among many being squeezed until the pips squeak, and sadly the public library service is an easy target. This service in Moray has suffered steady cutbacks over the years until the only remaining, now decrepit, mobile library van is due for retirement.

For many years the mobile library drivers have gone out in all weathers to schools, sheltered accommodation, and people in remote areas who are unable to access the main library. The drivers have encouraged autistic children, given cheer to the lonely and troubled customers, provided learners with research and given practical support to many clients. Community connections, human interactions, information, support and service to many otherwise isolated people have been invaluable. This community service is only appreciated by those who really need it, many of whom are not internet or computer savvy.

One proposed replacement system using volunteers will require much more effort in organising, vetting, training and insurance cover. Another suggestion is for “pop-up” libraries in rural areas. This would require a cost of site hire as well as creating health and safety concerns for the individual required to unload and then reload boxes of books into the transport being used.

Surely a new mobile library van would be the simple longterm solution?

Sadly, none of the unquantifiable benefits of this service can appear on a balance sheet and are discounted, so the quality of life for many of the less fortunate will deteriorate further. All that is needed is a new library van.

Jenny Main Elgin, Moray