Uist’s much-loved mobile librarian steps down from behind the wheel
Uist’s favourite mobile librarian will be retiring at the end of April after 20 happy years in post.
Donald Ewen Morrison is a bit of a local celebrity – he’s been on the telly and in the papers, received fan mail from across the world and won a prestigious national award – he’s even saved the life of a customer. There really is no-one quite like him!
Known for his kindness and his cheeky banter, Donald Ewen will be sorely missed by the many customers who have looked forward to his regular visits.
Youngsters will miss the ‘magic Gaelic whistle’ he deployed to open the library van doors, and his infamous bird puppets, which were often used to hilarious effect.
In 2013 he was awarded the title of CILIP (Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals) Mobile Library Champion, beating off strong competition from across the UK. The Award recognises the ‘extraordinary achievements of mobile library workers who make a difference to the lives of their users’ and Donald Ewen was certainly a very worthy winner.
Before handing in his badge, Donald Ewen chatted to Am Pàipear about his years in the job and the many fond memories he will take with him.
“I started in the mobile library back in January 2003, so it’s been twenty years at the job.
“I’ve enjoyed the work. I’ve met many lovely people – been bitten by a few dogs and befriended quite a few more!
“I’ve had celebrity authors in the van, a good few cats in too, and very nearly an Eriskay pony on one occasion!
“I’ve heard a great many stories – some funny, some rude, some definitely not for repeating – what’s said in the van, stays in the van!
“One thing I won’t miss is the winter evenings and the job of manoeuvring tight driveways in the dark!
“At 66 years old, I think it’s about time I retired, but I’ll certainly miss the people. I’ve made some good friends over the years and I’ll hope to see them again on the road. I’ll remember my time at the library very fondly and I want to thank the many people who have supported me over the years – the friendly waves, the banter and the good will is what has made the job so enjoyable.”
About the service:
Uist’s mobile library service provides a lifeline for the housebound and for those members of the community who would otherwise be unable to get access to the library’s fantastic range of books, CDs and DVDs.
The van holds a great range of books by favourite authors – from Booker Prize winners to Gaelic books. A large local history collection offers a great resource for family history enthusiasts.
For those who are able to make it to Lionacleit, there is a lot more on offer in the library than just books.
PC access and wifi is available, with the option to use the library printer direct from any device.
The library offers a warm, welcoming space with hot coffee, tea and hot chocolate to enjoy along with a favourite book or the newspaper, while young ones can play with an impressive Lego selection.
There are regular events such as film nights, bookbug sessions, a weekly textiles group, monthly book groups and regular art and craft workshops, as well as author visits and book launches.
The library also provides free access to ebooks and audio books via the Borrowbox app, with full details on how to access this service available on Western Isle Libraries Website.
With Council budgets stretched and a library services review planned for this year, the community is advised to use it or lose it!
