THE mobile library vehicle in North Somerset has been “declared unroadworthy” – but the service could come back next year.

The vehicle has been taken off the road permanently due to the discovery of a defect with the chassis.

But North Somerset Libraries said they secured more than £309k in funding through the Libraries Improvement Fund (LIF), administered by Arts Council England, to purchase a new electric library outreach vehicle.

A North Somerset Council spokesperson said: “The North Somerset mobile library vehicle has been declared unroadworthy.

“We’ve been working hard to develop an interim service as quickly as we can, so we can continue to serve our rural communities.

“Mobile library customers are receiving regular updates from us as our plans continue to develop.

“Customers can use all libraries in North Somerset and in our neighbouring authorities with their library card.

"They can also access a range of library services online at www.librarieswest.org.uk.

“We remain committed to the mobile library service, and we’ve secured funding for a new electric vehicle. We’re hoping to have this out on the road by the end of 2025.

“We’d like to thank our mobile library customers for their patience and understanding.”