Good news is on the horizon for book lovers across the Highlands, as the first of two new mobile libraries has arrived in Scotland and is now being fitted out ahead of taking to the road later this winter.
The vehicle chassis, now at specialist builders Cebotec in Falkirk, will undergo a full fit-out over the next two to three months, with a second chassis due to arrive from Italy in the coming weeks.
The £332,000 project from Highland Council includes the purchase, conversion, and signwriting of the new vans, a long-awaited investment in a service that is vital to rural life.
The new mobile libraries will be deployed in the north and west of the region, where temporary delivery arrangements have been in place following the retirement of older vehicles.
Mobile libraries have long been a lifeline for communities scattered across the Highlands, offering not only books but also connection, conversation, and continuity in some of Scotland’s most remote areas.
For many residents, these services are the closest link to a library building bringing stories, information, and digital access directly to their doorsteps.
Julie Corcoran, Head of Libraries at High Life Highland, said the arrival of the new vehicles will be warmly welcomed by communities who have waited patiently for their return.
“We know that these developments will be much welcomed news for all our rural customers who depend on this essential service,” she said.
“Communities have been waiting patiently for the arrival of the new vehicles and High Life Highland is looking forward to re-instating a walk-on mobile library service at the earliest possible time.”
Chair of Highland Council’s Education Committee, Councillor John Finlayson, also expressed his delight at the milestone.
“The arrival of our bespoke library vans is very much welcomed, and the Council is actively working to expedite the fit-out process to ensure the vehicles are ready for the road and to service our rural communities as soon as possible,” he said.
The partnership between Highland Council and High Life Highland has ensured the continuation of mobile library services through temporary measures, but the new fleet will restore full service with modern, comfortable, and accessible facilities for readers of all ages.
Once complete, the two new vans will serve hundreds of households across the Highlands reconnecting communities with one of their most cherished services.
