Keeping libraries at the heart of local communities (Cheltenham Liberal Democrats)

Cheltenham Liberal Democrats <info@cheltlibdems.org.uk>

Keeping libraries at the heart of local communities

July 10, 2007 1:40 PM

The way in which we use libraries is changing, and the County Council is asking people for their views on how existing services can be shaped to continue to play a key role in their local communities.

As well as identifying libraries for investment in services, stock and buildings, the Library Network Strategy 2007 also looks at the potential for libraries in some communities to share premises and facilities with other service providers and agencies. There are already plans to provide Children's Centre services within five library settings - at Quedgeley, Nailsworth, Up Hatherley, Bishop's Cleeve and Mitcheldean.

County Councillor, Ron Allen, cabinet member for libraries, said: "We recognise the important role libraries play for local communities, and we know that they must adapt to changing needs of local people. We want to maintain library services in all communities which currently receive them, and consider ways to develop opportunities for them to become partners with other organisations in providing vibrant community centres where a variety of activities and facilities are available."

All of the county's 39 libraries are included in the strategy, which offers positive possibilities for the future of library services across the county. The first phase action plan includes consultation for Bream, Bourton-on- the-Water, Berkeley, Moreton-in-Marsh, Newnham and Lechlade libraries. The council will be consulting in these communities over the forthcoming months on the best way forward.

David Paynter, Head of Gloucestershire County Council's Libraries & Information, said: "This is an exciting time for libraries in the county. Our libraries play a vital role in delivering a range of services for communities. For example, all our libraries have become Local Contact Points enabling access for local people to all aspects of the Council's services. We want to consider how libraries can serve their communities better. One way would be to work together with other service providers, perhaps sharing premises, to become focal points for the community."

A full version of the Libraries Network Strategy can be found at www.libraries.gloucestershire.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=15833 <<a href="http://www.libraries.gloucestershire.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=15833">http://www.libraries.gloucestershire.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=15833> Full public consultation with local library users and residents will start on Monday 20th August 2007.