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Cork City Council Launches Pilot E-Bike Library Scheme Across the City

09/07/2026

Residents invited to borrow an e-bike for three months and experience a greener, healthier way to travel.

Cork City Council is delighted to announce the launch of its pilot Bike Library Scheme, an initiative designed to give community groups across Cork City the opportunity to experience the benefits of e-biking without the upfront cost of purchasing an electric bicycle.

The Bike Library Scheme allows members of the public to borrow an e-bike for a period of three months, giving them time to incorporate cycling into their daily routines and determine whether an e-bike suits their lifestyle and transport needs.

To ensure accessibility for communities across the city, Cork City Council has partnered with several local organisations to establish Bike Library hubs in each city ward. Participating community partners include:

  • St. Finbarr's GAA Club;
  • Mayfield GAA Club;
  • Blackrock GAA Club;
  • Cork City Library;
  • Blackpool Community Association.

A total of 25 e-bikes are available through the scheme. The fleet includes a variety of bike types, including:

  • City e-bikes, ideal for commuting to work, education or other daily journeys.
  • Longtail cargo e-bikes, designed to help families transport young children and make everyday trips around the city easier and more convenient.

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.

David Joyce, Director of Emergency Management and Climate Action for 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. This initiative has the potential to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions and improve health and wellbeing across our communities."

The scheme forms part of Cork City Council's ongoing commitment to promoting active travel and supporting residents in making sustainable transport choices.

Participants who use an e-bike for commuting and other routine journeys can enjoy a range of benefits, including reduced transport costs, less reliance on private cars, lower carbon emissions, improved fitness levels and a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Applications for the Bike Library Scheme will be announced through participating community organisations and Cork City Council communications channels.

For queries, please contact frank_fitzgerald@corkcity.ie

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