Shropshire mobile library back on the road after accidents

Shropshire Council's library van had to be taken off the road temporarily for repairs after getting into difficulty when travelling along narrow lanes in the Stiperstones and Shelve area of the county.

According to Shropshire councillor Heather Kidd, who represents Chirbury and Worthen, it meant pensioners living in remote communities in the area were unable to change their books for more than a month.

But Councillor Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council's cabinet member responsible for libraries, said the vehicle was now back on the road.

Councillor Kidd said: "I've had a large number of complaints from predominantly older residents who highly value this service.

"It seems that the van failed to arrive in Bent Lawnt, Shelve and Stiperstones and left people waiting six weeks to change their books.

"In very rural areas like ours this service is highly appreciated and for many elderly people provides a key social contact as well.

"I am glad that the van is back on the road now but I have urged council officers to keep a close eye on this service and let me know as soon as there is a problem."

Councillor Charmley said: "The mobile library has been involved in a few minor accidents recently when travelling along the narrow lanes in this area.

"Unfortunately, due to the specialist nature of the vehicle it takes time to get the parts and repair it.

"We understand that this may have caused some inconvenience.

"However, while the vehicle was being repaired all library books were renewed and readers were contacted regularly by phone to keep them up to date with what was happening.

"People can also borrow and return items from any Shropshire library."

By Catherine Ferris