New mobile library service launched

Sunshine Coast Council is excited to be launching its new, state-of-the-art mobile library which has the latest technology for all the community to access.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said today’s launch of the fully accessible new mobile library and the fresh new look for the existing mobile library was an enhancement to library services aimed at improving access to information and technology for the region.

“It is not every day you receive a new mobile library, especially one that has the latest technology including an Australian first - a self-service machine to make checking out your mobile library item quick and easy,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“The new mobile library has been designed specifically to suit our region’s needs and has been built to cope with our rural roads. And you can’t miss the new vehicle given its vibrant purple colour.

“On its 24 stops throughout the region, the mobile library attracts in excess of 5000 people a month who, for one reason or another, are unable to travel to their closest library branch.

“I recently launched the Sunshine Coast Social Strategy and it highlighted the importance of having a resilient and engaged community and the need to ensure our people and places are connected.

“Our libraries play a big role in this space. Libraries bring people of all walks of life together, reducing isolation by promoting social interaction and inclusion.”

Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said it was a pleasure to have been part of the process that had secured a new mobile library for our community.

“There is no doubt libraries play an important role in our community,” Cr McKay said.

“In fact, Council has an endorsed Sunshine Coast Libraries Plan which sets the strategic direction for library operational and infrastructure for the next decade. The mobile library is definitely an integral part of that direction.

“The Sunshine Coast Library network is comprised of eight vibrant and busy library branches and two mobile libraries.

“They are visited more than 1.5 million times per year by a membership base of 124,000 members.

“On board the mobile service you will find technology such as iPads to access the many online resources provided free by being a library member. There are DVDs, CDs, magazines and an activity desk.

“And children don’t miss out as there is a colourful kids’ corner to explore. There is even free WiFi.

“Our mobile libraries are stocked with more than 12,000 items and of course if we do not have what our customers want we can reserve any item and bring them next time we are at their location. Now that’s a great service.

“So look out for our new branded mobile libraries – they will definitely stand out when they make their way around the Coast and be talked about wherever they go.”

Picture: Mayor Mark Jamieson with Community Programs Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay