AN EXPANDED mobile library service is on the cards for keen readers in Wiltshire. The county council's library service wants to increase the number of visits made to rural areas and is buying a new high-tech vehicle.

The Mobile Library Plus scheme aims to improve services for people who do not live near a permanent library.

Principal librarian Monte Little said: "Mobile library users at present are only able to get new books, videos, tapes and compact discs every fortnight but under Mobile Library Plus the service will become weekly for nine communities."

Under the scheme the four-strong fleet of mobile library vehicles would stay the same size, but in some areas the service will be extended to cover Saturday, which will create the time for extra visits at some locations.

This means the times of some visits will have to be rearranged.

Users and parish councils across the county are being asked for their views during the next six weeks, starting on October 7, on all the new stopping times before the proposals are finalised.

The Mobile Library Plus scheme is set to be up and running by April next year.

Mr Little said: "We hope this scheme will provide people living in rural parts with a 21st Century service. It is a recognition by the county council of the important role mobile libraries play."