A bicycle library service has started in Cork City, allowing people to borrow an electric-assisted bicycle for up to three months from Corks library service, three GAA clubs and a community group.As previously reported, bike libraries have been set up in different areas, includingSwords (covered at the weekend), Co Dublin, Ballymunin Dublin City, andLimerick City, as well as at a number of large employers such asSt Jamess Hospital,UCD,Diageo, andDublin City Council.David Joyce, director of emergency management and climate action with Cork City Council, said: The Bike Library Scheme gives people the opportunity to try an e-bike without making a major financial commitment. We hope that by experiencing the convenience of e-biking for daily journeys, more people will consider switching from car trips to active and sustainable travel options.He added: This initiative has the potential to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and improve health and wellbeing across our communities.In addition to its own library service, the council is partnering with St Finbarrs GAA Club, Mayfield GAA Club, Blackrock GAA Club, and Blackpool Community Association.Across the groups, there will be a total of 25 electric-assisted bicycles available through the scheme, including city-bike-style and longtail cargo bikes, the latter of which is described as designed to help families transport young children and make everyday trips around the city easier and more convenient.The council said that successful applicants will be required to pay a 50 refundable deposit before borrowing a bike.The initiative aims to encourage more people to consider cycling as a practical and sustainable transport option. By enabling participants to use an e-bike for everyday journeys over the three-month period, the scheme provides valuable firsthand experience of the convenience and versatility that e-bikes can offer, the council said. It added that the scheme forms part of Cork City Councils ongoing commitment to promoting active travel and supporting residents in making sustainable transport choices.The council said that applications for the Bike Library Scheme will be announced through participating community organisations and Cork City Council communications channels.IMAGE: Representatives from the participating community partners and from EBikes Ireland, Kilkenny; Capwell Cycles and McCarthy Cycles, North Point Business. Park, Blackpool. (Photo: Brian Lougheed for Cork City Council).