Have your say on mobile libraries

The aim of the Mobile Library Service Strategy is to ensure that the mobile service across Northern Ireland is well used and that it meets the needs of current and future users.

Libraries NI took over responsibility for the public library service across Northern Ireland, from the five Education and Library Boards when it was established in 2009.

There are currently 28 public mobile library vehicles calling at over 700 stops across Northern Ireland.

There is an opportunity to establish a single strategy for these services, with the aim of increasing use of the mobile service, ensuring that services are accessible to users, delivering value for money and providing the right services for customers in both rural and urban areas.

Libraries NI is inviting all mobile library users and anyone else with an interest to fill out a questionnaire, which should only take a few minutes.

People are asked to comment on five proposals for the future of the service, including target groups, services to be provided, criteria for service delivery, services to schools and playgroups and increasing usage.

The questionnaire, together with the consultation document, draft equally impact assessment and draft rural impact assessment, is available now at www.librariesni.org.uk

Mobile library customers can get a copy when they visit their mobile library.

Nigel Macartney, Chairperson of Libraries NI said: “We want to hear the views of the public and we would encourage users and anyone else with an interest to engage with us by sharing their comments on this proposed strategy.

“We know that the service is highly valued by its users and we want to find ways to increase the level of use whilst maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction. Your comments will help us to make the right decisions to ensure that we are providing all mobile library users with a quality library service.”

The public consultation runs until Friday, December 14 2012 and questionnaires should be completed during this period.

For further information on the Mobile Library Service Strategy go to www.librariesni.org.uk