We want to hear your feedback and thoughts on proposed new opening hours for our libraries. The proposal is a reduction in opening hours of 123 hours per week across all library provision, based on usage data, knowledge of the local community, staff input, groups who regularly meet in the library, costs per hour and equality considerations.
It is vital that we consider how Royal Borough Libraries will be used going forward and if there are ways we can adapt or change them to reflect current and future usage while delivering essential savings for the Council. Please ensure that the consultation captures all your thoughts about the library service.
The digital offer is already extensive and may be viewed by many as a convenient alternative to physical visits to our buildings which in turn may help with reducing running costs.
Libraries also provide a base for community and volunteer groups and for individual volunteers to deliver support and services to residents. Please share any comments you have on the value or not, of the library service's role in coordinating and facilitating this support.
It is essential that we get the views of residents and library customers of all ages about the future of the Library Service. This consultation is for those who use libraries regularly and for those who may not currently use libraries but have a view and who may wish to use them at different stages in their lives. It is also for those who feel that council funds should be prioritised elsewhere. Please encourage your friends, family and colleagues, including young people, to take part.
The consultation will run until Monday 30 November 2020 and the feedback gathered will be used to inform the Cabinet paper in January 2021.
You can fill in the consultation online.
https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/home/council-and-democracy/consultations/library-consultationIf you need a physical copy please email
Angela.Huisman@RBWM.gov.uk or call 07717693031.
For further details, including how the Royal Borough’s Library opening hours compare to its neighbours please see the full version of this narrative.
https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/media/1971/download
