New mobile library bus rolling in Whangarei

Bus drivers Sam Manderson (rear left) and Tony Randall rolled into the Avenues EduCare to the delight of these young readers. Photo/Michael Cunningham

It's not just a new mobile library bus - it's an amazing space.

While housing 2000 books and DVDs Whangarei Library's new custom-built mobile bus appears much larger than its old counterpart thanks to a mirrored ceiling.

And there is the addition of flashing coloured lights inside that add to the ambiance.

The new interior design has met with much admiration during its first few days on the road this week.

Glenn Davidson, Libraries Outreach Services team leader at the Whangarei District Council, said the feedback had been positive on the first day on Tuesday with children at One Tree Point super-impressed with the coloured lights.

One of the specifications for the bus, built by Whangarei's City Motorhomes and Caravans, was to allow for up to 20 pre-schoolers to be seated on the floor while being read to.

"We want to promote reading and literacy to younger people and this is a great vehicle for that," Mr Davidson said.

"The mirror gives it an illusion of being bigger and the lights had the kids yelling. We wanted people to get a wow factor when they got on and this has achieved that."

Up to six adults can fit comfortably in the bus and peruse the literary options.

Because the bus is smaller than its predecessor, library staff with a standard driver's licence can take it on the road. Plus it is much more manoeuvrable, allowing staff to negotiate narrow driveways more easily.

The old bus was bought as a second-hand model in 2003, and was offered to other libraries. There was no interest so "Big Red" will go under the hammer at Turners Auctions in Whangarei.

The mobile library serves preschools and retirement villages, as well as beaches in the summer, and clocked up 298,000km while in service for Whangarei Library.

If you would like to see when the new mobile bus will be in your neighbourhood check www.whangarei-libraries.com and follow the mobile library link.