Mobile libraries and new information services in public libraries: issues arising from the MOBILE Project

Abstract

Describes the MOBILE Project, developed from separate but closely related ideas originating in the Netherlands, Belgium and the UK on how mobile libraries in Europe are responding to the opportunities presented by information and communication technologies and whether mobile service points could exploit these technologies to deliver a broader range of information services cost effectively to the communities they serve. The project was planned in 3 stages: identification of target user groups and patterns of library and information use and the design and purchase of suitable vehicles; testing of the vehicles and services among the target user groups; and evaluation of the data obtained from the field trials and vehicle use. Discusses in detail the issues arising from the project in northern and southern Europe.