Cumbria’s libraries could be set for a shake-up to enhance accessibility and promote greater use of library services.
At their meeting today Cumbria County Council’s Cabinet agreed to a review of library services, particularly those delivered from the smallest libraries across the county.
Cumbria County Council’s Library Service is a top class performer and was recently awarded the highest possible audit commission rating. However, the Library Service continues to look for ways to provide even more useable and accessible services. In particular the review will seek to establish how the services provided by the county’s smaller libraries can be best delivered.
Most of Cumbria's 20 smallest libraries currently operate with limited facilities and opening hours and are often under-used. The review is intended to explore ways of making sure that local people get the most out of library services in these areas. Changes to opening hours, Library Links and Mobile library services are options which can enable increased access and use.
County councillor Roger Bingham, Cabinet spokesman for the Library Service says:
“At the moment some of our smaller libraries are under-used and are not always meeting local needs. I want us to look at the options available to increase the level of service they provide.
This could mean a change to more flexible opening hours, or expanding the mobile and Library Links services which have successfully increased loans and visitor numbers around the county. Shared accommodation and joint delivery with other service areas has also helped us expand library opening hours in some places.
Whatever options we explore we will consult fully with local communities to see what services will best suit them.”