The pedal-powered mobile library

With 400 libraries around the country under threat of closure, might cash-strapped councils be about to take a leaf out of the Institute of Green Mobility’s book?

Mobile libraries are nothing new, but the Brazilian organisation has found that a tricycle adapted to function as a mobile library is a cost-effective way of getting to the heart of local communities and an informal way of encouraging people to borrow books.

The Bicicloteca tricycle was built to bring books to those with no access to a library or education, or those unable to afford books.

As a non-motorised tricycle, the Bicicloteca is able to carry 150kg of books into the heart of even the most congested towns and cities.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “The Bicicloteca is an imaginative and cost-effective way of encouraging reading among disadvantaged groups –most of us have yet to rediscover how efficient a workhorse the bicycle can be.”

Cargo cycles	Four of the best
The Madsen Cargo Bike is in most respects much like any other bicycle, but on its rear rack it sports a tub large enough to be equipped with two benches, four seatbelts and a rain hood
Royal Mail claims that increasingly heavy loads are the reason behind its decision to withdraw delivery bicycles in favour of diesel-powered vans. An increase in the number of books and DVDs ordered through online retailers such as Amazon has resulted increased the size and weight of post bags
The Dutch produce all manner of cargo bike – this model is effectively a conventional bicycle that has been stretched to accommodate a wheelbarrow-sized box ahead of the rider
Cargo cycles have even been known to carry a house…

Cycle insurance – from 33p per week

Every cycle insurance policy from the ETA includes new-for-old replacement if your bike is stolen, cover for accidental damage (race events included), third party insurance (in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else), personal accident cover and if you breakdown, we will even come out and recover you and your bike.