Galway Public Libraries is set to deliver a first for Ireland with the introduction of the country’s first modern mobile library vehicles based on bus infrastructure.
The new service is top be delivered following the signing of contracts by Galway County Council for the design and construction of two new state-of-the-art units.
The contracts have been awarded to Spanish specialist manufacturer Alegria-Activity, marking the company’s first project in Ireland.
Funding for the initiative is being provided by Galway County Council, with support from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht under the Library Capital Programme.
The vehicles will significantly modernise and expand the Galway Mobile Library Service, enabling books, learning resources and wider community supports to be delivered to towns, villages, schools and rural communities across the county.
The new generation units will function as fully equipped mobile service points, with shelving, staff workspace, enhanced IT capacity and provision for public printing, supported by onboard power and connectivity systems.
Liz Keane, Galway City & County Librarian, said the project represents “a significant investment in the future of our Mobile Library Service”.
She added that the partnership combines local experience with international expertise to deliver, “modern, flexible vehicles that will serve communities across Galway for many years to come.”
“The investment underlines its ongoing commitment to innovation, accessibility and delivering high-quality library services to communities throughout the county”.
Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway Cllr David Collins welcomed the investment, saying it represents, “a strong statement of the Council’s commitment to vibrant communities and equal access to library services, regardless of location.”
Chief Executive of Galway County Council, Liam Conneally, said the investment “reflects our commitment to inclusion, accessibility and sustainable community development. These new vehicles will strengthen and future-proof the Mobile Library Service, ensuring communities across Galway continue to have access to high-quality library services.”
Operating since 1960, the Mobile Library Service has long played a key role in connecting communities with reading, learning and cultural opportunities.
Designed in collaboration with Alegria-Activity, the new vehicles will feature modern technology, improved accessibility and flexible layouts to meet the evolving needs of library users across the county.
