As part of 50th birthday celebrations this year, a local library service is adding another mobile facility to its offerings.
Equipped with solar panels, air conditioning, a covered outdoor area and Wi-Fi, the mobile library contains thousands of new and popular items such as books, magazines, audiobooks and DVDs.
The custom-made Iveco light-rigid vehicle is 7.5m long and 2.4m wide – big enough to walk inside and browse the collection.
“The smaller, more versatile vehicle enables the service to access more locations and reach more customers,” Noosa libraries and galleries manager Tracey King said.
“There is now an option to book the service to come to your community or organisation’s event.”
The mobile library’s exterior features graphics designed by First Nations artist, local author and storyteller Gregg Dreise.
The launch of the new mobile facility coincides with the Noosa Library Service turning 50 this year, and residents are invited to the party.
Ms King said the launch, which runs from on Saturday, June 10, from 9am to midday at Joe Bazzo Park, Reserve Street, Pomona, will feature family-friendly activities and cake.
“It’s a great opportunity for the community to come and check out the new mobile library,” she said.
The library service will also launch 50th anniversary library cards to coincide with the new mobile library’s unveiling.
The cards feature artwork by proud Kabi Kabi and Wakka Wakka girl Alkirah Bell.
Titled Connections Through Water, the painting was selected as the official image for the new 50th birthday card.
“As we celebrate 50 years of our libraries, we’re honoured to promote local Kabi Kabi culture and pay respect to local traditional custodians of the land on which our libraries operate,” Ms King said.
A new mobile library timetable will start on June 10, to better reflect demand and patterns of use across the shire.
“Everyone is welcome and it’s free to use the service. Drop by to browse the collection, pick up reserved items, chat to our friendly staff or return loans,” Ms King said.
Noosa Shire’s first library and mobile library opened in 1973. A second library branch opened in Cooroy in 2010.
The current mobile library vehicle is over 15 years old and due for replacement.
For timetable information and to find out how to book a visit from the mobile library, visit Noosa Library Service.
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