Pint-sized Libraries for Rural Duties
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A NEW mobile library specially PA designed to operate in the more remote areas of Northumberland was recently introduced by the County Library authority. In order to extend and improve the library service in these areas it was decided to adopt, as standard, a smaller, lighter vehicle than the Leyland Comets previously used, and which will be retained in the more urban areas.
The short (10 ft.) wheelbase Albion Claymore model was selected as the chassis employs an underfloor engine, combined with a comparatively low frame height. This enabled a body to be designed with maximum shelf and circulating space, and adequate headroom, within minimum overall dimensions. The chassis is fitted with the Albion 4 cyl. EN. 250 horizontal diesel engine of 41 litres and five-speed, constant mesh gearbox.
Two libraries based on this chassis are being supplied under the current programme. Bodywork is constructed by Geo. Hallowell, of Morpeth, employing ash framing strengthened where necessary with alloy flitches or gusset plates, and panelled externally with Plymax alloyfaced lamin board. The overall length is 19 ft., overall width 7 ft. 6 in., and overall height a little more than 10 ft., allowing an interior headroom of 6 ft. 9 in.
The integrally-built, two-seater cab is separated from the interior of the body by a counter, and both seats are arranged to fold and face rearwards so that the driver can also face the counter and assist, where necessary. Drawers and shelves for issue trays are provided beneath the counter, which is divided, with a hinged flap, to provide access to the body. A wardrobe is incorporated at one end of the counter.
Book shelves in Japanese oak are provided on all the body sides except in way of the 2-ft. 2-in.-wide entrance on the nearside. Natural lighting is obtained from two Weathershields ventilators and one fixed light in the roof, in addition to the cab and entrance windows. Six 2-ft.
fluorescent tubes augment the natural lighting, whilst heating is provided by a calor-gas heater incorporated in the offside wheel arch box, with another beneath the counter.
The chassis frames have been dropped behind the rear axle to allow the provision of a book locker beneath the floor, the vehicles also being employed to deliver books to schools in country districts.
A third vehicle is also under construction by Geo. Hallowell, based on the 11-ft. 10-in.-wheelbase version of the Claymore. Otherwise identical to the first two vehicles, it will be of 22 ft. overall length, the extra shelf space thus obtained being an advantage in rather more urban localities. All three vehicles will be finished externally in the county's colours of light brunswick green and cream, the use of cream for all the uppermost area of the body obviating the "shortened" appearance of these very compact vehicles.