Find the Mobile Library timetable and map and learn about the history of the mobile library service in Palmerston Noth.
About the Mobile Library
The Mobile Library, with its award-winning design, goes to 39 stops around the city. On board you will find:
- books (including large print)
- magazines
- audiobooks
- music CDs, DVDs, CD-ROMs and more
- a friendly, personal service
History of the Mobile Library
Forty Years of Service - May 1967 - May 2007
On May 22, 1967, the then current Leyland library van was hitched up to a converted caravan, to begin a mobile library service to Palmerston North.
The caravan was hired as this venture was to be a trial only, to test the popularity of the service.
A second door was cut in the side of the caravan, shelving installed, and a desk and returns box fitted.
For two and a half years the caravan was rented, then in November, 1969, it was purchased by the Council.
As the caravan was not originally designed to carry the weight of the stock it held (1800 books), continued use led to many modifications.
The weight-load necessitated the replacement of the wheel-base in June 1970, and the chassis was further strengthened in August 1971.
However, after 5 and a half years' heavy haulage, the caravan's life was limited and a replacement was sought.
Workmen converting the "new" mobile library, 1973.
The City Librarian, Mr I W Malcolm, and the Deputy Librarian, Miss N M Irvine, admire the new mobile library - November 22, 1973.
The new bus carried 3000 books, 1200 more than the old caravan.
The coachwork was done in Auckland, and the on-the-road cost was $17,500. At the time the mobile was the largest of its type in New Zealand.
The best was yet to come!
