The Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), humanitarian tech non-profit Jangala and Virgin Media O2 have announced a groundbreaking collaboration to bring free Wi-Fi connectivity to mobile library services across Scotland, in celebration of Mobile Libraries Day 2025 (19 November).
This first-of-its-kind UK pilot will see mobile library vehicles in rural locations equipped with Jangala’s ‘Big Box’ technology, powered by O2 mobile data donated by Virgin Media O2, that will provide a WiFi connection for residents. A Big Box is a portable, briefcase-sized device that transforms a mobile data connection into robust, scalable Wi-Fi.
Suitable locations are currently being identified for the 12-month pilot as part of Jangala’s ‘Our Community Wi-Fi’ programme.
Across Scotland, 37 mobile libraries currently operate in 19 local authorities, serving nearly 30,000 users, from young families to people in their 90s. They bring books, learning, information and social connection to residents who may face barriers to accessing traditional library buildings. Yet, only a small number of Scotland’s mobile library vehicles currently have Wi-Fi or any ICT facilities on board, limiting the services staff can offer and the digital access available to members of the community.
Mobile libraries already contribute up to 15% of all library loans and visits in some areas. Improved connectivity will enable the mobile libraries to expand services, support digital skills and help residents access essential online services, such as booking medical appointments, online banking, keeping up to date with news or staying in touch with loved ones.
Alison Nolan, chief executive of SLIC, said: “Mobile libraries are among the most vital and accessible services in Scotland, reaching people who might otherwise face barriers to learning, literacy and digital access. On Mobile Libraries Day, we celebrate their essential role in connecting communities and reducing social isolation — especially in rural and remote areas.
“By bringing improved digital connectivity on board, we can ensure mobile libraries continue to evolve, offering even greater opportunities for creativity, digital participation and lifelong learning. Investment in these services is essential to building a fairer, more inclusive and connected Scotland.”
Elizabeth Hendry, Head of Programmes at Jangala, said: “Our mission is to make high quality internet access easy, fast and accessible for people who need it most — and mobile libraries are perfectly placed to deliver that impact.
“We’ve seen how transformative onboard Wi-Fi can be in mobile libraries elsewhere in Europe and we’re excited to learn how connectivity can support staff, enrich services and create new opportunities for people living in Scotland’s rural and island communities.”
Dana Haidan, Chief Sustainability Officer at Virgin Media O2, added: “Virgin Media O2 is proud to support this pilot – funding the programme to bring Jangala’s Big Boxes onto Scotland’s mobile libraries and donating the O2 mobile data that will power them.
“These vehicles are a vital lifeline for people who risk being excluded, and this programme build on the wider work Virgin Media O2 is doing to tackle digital exclusion. It also sits alongside our Mobile Transformation Plan, where we’re investing around £2m every day to boost the reliability, speed and coverage of our mobile network across the UK, including a focus on hard-to-reach places like rural areas.
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“Together, these efforts help strengthen connectivity for communities where it can make a real and lasting difference.”
Mobile Libraries Day is celebrated on Wednesday 19 November 2025 as part of Book Week Scotland, and highlights the vital contribution these services make, from tackling social isolation to supporting reading and literacy in every corner of Scotland. With improved connectivity, they will be able to deliver even greater value and support Scotland’s national goals around digital participation, wellbeing and community cohesion.
To learn more about Mobile Libraries Day or to find your nearest mobile library stop, visit scottishlibraries.org/mobile-libraries-day/
