News / libraries
Cargo bikes to carry library books and more to Bristol’s communities
Cargo bikes are an increasingly familiar sight in Bristol as businesses seek environmentally-friendly ways of distributing their goods.
Now the city’s libraries are to become the latest organisation to turn to peddle power as a means of reaching people who don’t usually use their facilities by taking books, storytelling and more out into communities.
The Words on Wheels project will see three specially commissioned cargo bikes loaded up with whatever is needed for their mission – be it big books and blankets for storytime in the park or internet-enabled laptops for a pop-up job fair.
The first part of the project, funded by an Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grant, will involve groups working with local artists, including Upfest, to design the graphics for the bikes to help promote reading and library services wherever they go about the city.
The city’s libraries are taking to two (or more) wheels – photo: Martin Booth
“No longer are Bristol Libraries bound by their buildings, waiting for you to visit; the library can now come to you,” says deputy mayor Asher Craig, who has responsibility for Bristol’s libraries.
“Using cargo bikes will allow us to take our services on the road in a clean and sustainable way, that will not have a negative impact on the city.
“We are very grateful for this opportunity to expand our outreach programme and we are very excited to be setting off on a new, bold venture with Words on Wheels, peddling services to the people of Bristol. Keep an eye out for one of our bikes coming to an event near you.”
Once ready for the road the bikes – acting as mini, mobile pop-up libraries – will start touring and attending major events such as Bristol Harbour Festival and Redfest, supported by professional storytellers, circus performers and writers.
Main photo courtesy of Bristol City Council
Read more: Exploring what libraries mean to young people
Listen to the latest episode of the Bristol24/7 Behind the Headlines podcast:
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
