Books on Wheels Welcomes Growing Number of Customers

Awen Cultural Trust is celebrating an increase in the number of people using its Books on Wheels service, which brings books and other library resources directly to residents who find it difficult to visit their local library.

The free service, delivered by Awen in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council, has seen customer numbers rise from an additional five in August 2025 to an additional 12 in August 2026, an increase of 140%.

Books on Wheels supports older and housebound residents, as well as other people who experience mobility, health or access barriers. Friendly, fully trained library staff visit customers at home every five weeks, to deliver books, large-print books, audiobooks and DVDs. Staff can help customers choose suitable items, while those who prefer to make their own selection can browse and request books through the online catalogue.

The growth in customers highlights the continuing importance of providing flexible and inclusive library services. For people who cannot easily reach a library building, Books on Wheels protects access to reading for pleasure, information and lifelong learning. Regular deliveries can also provide a valued point of contact and help customers remain connected to their wider library community.

The service has previously enabled housebound customers to participate in shared reading initiatives such as the 21 Book Challenge. More than 20 Books on Wheels customers took part in the challenge, sharing book recommendations and messages through the delivery team despite being unable to meet one another in person.

Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, said:

“We are delighted that even more people are benefiting from Books on Wheels. Being unable to visit a library should not mean losing access to books, reading and the sense of connection that a library service can provide.

“It is far more than a book delivery service. Our Books on Wheels team takes time to understand each customer’s interests and access needs, helping people discover books and authors they will enjoy. This increase shows just how important it is to provide a flexible service that brings the library directly to people’s doors.

“The success of the service also reflects the value of the partnership between Awen Cultural Trust and Bridgend County Borough Council in maintaining accessible library provision for communities across the county borough.”

Books on Wheels has recently benefited from the introduction of a fully electric delivery van, funded by Welsh Government. The vehicle is quieter, easier for staff to load and unload, and has less environmental impact than the previous vehicle. Its improved reliability supports consistent deliveries across Bridgend County Borough and represents a long-term investment in the outreach service.

Anyone who finds it difficult to visit a library, or who knows a friend or relative who may benefit, can contact the Books on Wheels team on 01656 252055 or email booksonwheels@awen-wales.com. The service is free of charge.

Cllr Jane Gebbie, Deputy Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council, said:

“Libraries are about so much more than books – they are about connection, inclusion and making sure everyone has the opportunity to learn, discover and enjoy reading, whatever their circumstances.

“For some of our residents, visiting a library can be difficult or simply not possible. That is why Books on Wheels is so important. By bringing the library directly to people’s homes, the service helps ensure that older, housebound and mobility-limited residents are not left behind and can continue to enjoy the books, information and companionship that their local library provides.

“Bridgend County Borough Council is proud to fund this valuable service. The growing number of customers shows the real difference it is making to people’s lives, and we are committed to supporting accessible and inclusive library services that reach residents wherever they live across our county borough.”