Changes to library service (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Changes to library service

12:00am Thursday 25th October 2012 in Andover

HAMPSHIRE County Council will introduce changes to some mobile library routes next week with the launch of a new timetable detailing hundreds of mobile library stops across the county.

The Mobile Library Service will make 343 stops around Hampshire, mainly on a four weekly and weekly basis. The new revised timetable includes a change from four weekly to fortnightly visits for Broughton and King’s Somborne in the Test Valley, and the length of some existing stops in Test Valley will increase to cater for more customer visits.

All the new routes are now available online at hants.gov.uk/mobile-libraries or by calling 0845 603 5631.

Visitors to the website can simply enter their postcode to find their nearest stop on the map.

The new service follows a public consultation held over the summer, with feedback and comments used to help ensure the service reaches as many people as possible, and uses resources in the most efficient and effective way.

Executive Member for Culture and Recreation, Cllr Keith Chapman, said: “Almost every community in Hampshire will continue to receive one mobile library visit per community, by one of the four mobile library vehicles.

“We will be working with town and parish councils to publicise the stops in local towns and villages, so more people are encouraged to step aboard and make use of the service.”

If people wish to use a mobile library but are unable to get to the new stop then a friend, family member or neighbour willing to visit the library or mobile library on their behalf can be registered as a Good Neighbour, and borrow books for them.