The Catalan Parliament in Barcelona has called for the immediate reinstatement of the Pere Quart bibliobús service, which serves four counties in the Alt Pirineu region. The mobile library has been out of service for more than four months, according to a motion approved yesterday.
The measure, put forward by Junts, received widespread support, passing with 123 votes in favour and 11 abstentions. Jeannine Abella, mayor of Isona i Conca Dellà, said the resolution “recalls the need to maintain universal access to the country's public library system and, in this sense, immediately re-establish the Pere Quart bibliobús service”.
Service Halted Since January
The bibliobús service stopped on 7 January following the retirement of its driver. The position has not yet been filled, leading to the prolonged suspension. The mobile library is a critical resource for residents in the Alt Pirineu, providing access to books and library services in areas with limited facilities.
In addition to the bibliobús demand, the Catalan chamber also approved a motion, with the PSC abstaining, to urge the government to amend the Catalan library system law. This amendment would ensure that “all library staff have a university degree in librarianship and documentation”. The Parliament also acknowledged the success of Sant Jordi's Day as a “literary and festive day that has become recognised worldwide”.
Moving forward, the Catalan government will need to address the staffing issue to restore the Pere Quart bibliobús. The proposed legal amendment regarding staff qualifications will also require further discussion and action.
