SURREY Libraries on Friday announced the launch of its new Mobile Library service. The Mobile Library is a small library in an upfitted van that travels around Surrey, bringing the library to underserved areas.
Launched in April, the Mobile Library provides access to over 1,000 books, is a Wi-Fi hotspot, and has laptops patrons can use. Friendly, knowledgeable library staff are also available to help patrons.
“I’m thrilled to see the launch of Surrey Libraries’ Mobile Library, bringing the joy of reading to every corner of our city,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke. “This innovative service is a testament to our community’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. I’m grateful for the collaboration between Surrey Libraries, the provincial government and Envision Financial, a division of First West Credit Union, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on our residents.”
“We’re thrilled to be able to offer this service to Surrey,” said Surinder Bhogal, Chief Librarian for Surrey Libraries. “Surrey is geographically vast, and we know not everyone in Surrey can easily access a library branch, so the Mobile Library brings literacy and opportunities for learning to them.”
The Mobile Library will be travelling around Surrey from Tuesday through Saturday and will visit many locations throughout the city such as recreation centres, food banks, senior’s centres, care homes, parks, and more.
“The Mobile Library has been many years in the making, and we couldn’t have done it without a great deal of support,” said Balbir Gurm, Surrey Libraries Board Chair. “We’d like to acknowledge the Provincial government which gave us funding to purchase and retrofit the van. We are also grateful to our corporate champion, Envision Financial, a division of First West Credit Union, for their generous sponsorship over the next three years. And we want to thank the City of Surrey for supporting the staffing and partial operating costs.”
“With Surrey’s new Mobile Library, people in every corner of the city can access books and technology. As a former elementary school teacher and lifelong learner, I understand how vital libraries are. I’m excited that the Provincial Government can partner with Surrey to reach more people in their community,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister of Libraries.
To celebrate the launch of the Mobile Library, Surrey Libraries is inviting the community to drop by a festive event on Monday, June 3 from 3 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. at Surrey Civic Plaza (13450 104 Avenue). In addition to the Mobile Library being on location, the event will feature roving entertainers, refreshments, an official ribbon cutting, paper crafts and games, prizes, and a contest. Visit surreylibraries.ca for more information.
“This new Mobile Library is a game-changer for our community,” said Councillor Pardeep Kooner, who serves on the Surrey Public Library Board. “It’s a shining example of what can be achieved when we work together to make a positive impact on our community. It’s vital that we make library services accessible to all, and I’m excited to see the impact it will have on our most vulnerable populations, such as seniors and families who may not have access to traditional library services.”
