Additional mobile library services for Christchurch

Friday 8 June 2012

Christchurch residents will soon have even more access to library services, with Christchurch City Libraries receiving two new mobile library vans which should be operating by October this year.

The vans, which provide a portable social, recreational and learning space, will help fill the gap left in library services after the earthquakes forced the closure of Bishopdale, Central, Linwood and Sumner Libraries.

Since the earthquakes, the existing Mobile Library bus has been unable to reach some parts of Christchurch because of its size. One of the advantages of the new, smaller mobile library vans is their ability to visit these places.

Rotary New Zealand has sought and received funding for this project, with one van funded by Rotary International, and the other van funded through a partnership with Rotary International and the Cotton On Foundation.

Mayor Bob Parker says the vans are a welcome addition to the library fleet. The loss of a community favourite, like a library, is a problem that’s affected some areas – in Sumner’s case, for over a year. This is another opportunity to reduce community isolation and increase participation, and we’re all very grateful to the sponsors for their generosity.

Find out out about our Mobile Library service.