Libraries with petrol power in RCT

Rhondda Cynon Taf’s latest brand new mobile library - which will serve the Taf Ely area - has taken to the road.

Council Leader, Cllr Russell Roberts, officially launched the vehicle, which is the fourth mobile library operating in the county borough. It will provide 61 street stops every fortnight, and 24 housebound user stops in the Taf area.

"Our mobile libraries reach out to less able people in our communities, bringing services directly to those who, for a variety of reasons, can’t get to a library building themselves," said Cllr Roberts.

“This latest vehicle marks another important landmark in our delivery of up-to-date, customer-focused services.”

The Libraries Service has been able to introduce more compact vehicles which can better negotiate steep hills and narrow streets, with suspension that can be lowered and wheelchair access for disabled people.

The newer vehicles meet the latest in engine design standards around exhaust emissions, which means they contribute to a healthier environment. With bright new artwork designed to catch the eye and promote the service, they are also much more attractive visually.

The latest accessible mobile library was launched at the recent Disability Conference at Rhondda Sports Centre, Ystrad. The areas the new vehicle will cover include Nantgarw, Rhiwsaeson, Groesfaen, Miskin, Mwyndy, Thomastown, Tyn-yr-Bryn, Hendreforgan, Gilfach Goch, Glyntaff, Trehafod, Hopkinstown, Trallwn, Penycoedcae, Bryncae, Brynna, Tylagarw, Treforest, Efail Isaf, Llantwit Fardre, Penrhiwfer, Edmondstown, Coedely and Ynysmaerdy.

The Mobile Library Service currently provides 274 street stops to areas without branch libraries, as well as providing 36 stops at sheltered housing complexes each fortnight. They also provide additional support to the housebound library service.

Renewal of mobile library vehicles is part of the Council’s overall fleet renewal strategy, which began in 2005. Two new mobile libraries have already been brought into service since then.

For more information on Rhondda Cynon Taf Libraries Service log on to the library website at www.rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk/libraries

Membership of all Rhondda Cynon Taf's libraries is free and everyone living or working within the County Borough is welcome to join.