Agenda item

To provide members with an overview of the key findings from the Library Service public consultation completed in June 2020.  The report also identifies the capacity and accessibility improvement measures introduced to the Service during 2020 and outlines a three-stage approach to Service redesign based on evident need.  (Report enclosed as Appendix C).

The report provided members with an overview of the key findings from the Library Service public consultation completed in June 2020.  (A copy of the report is attached to the signed minutes as Appendix C).

The Head of Cultural Services gave a brief overview of the library service which was a statutory function under the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964.  The service had been subject to a number of structural and leadership changes since 2015.

He referred members to the 7 outcomes, highlighted by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) that library services were critical to individuals and communities in their areas.  DCLG guidance and case law suggested that consultation was required to ensure that a comprehensive and efficient library service continued to be provided, if significant changes were proposed.  A summary of the consultation and engagement activities undertaken during 2020 were detailed on page 3 of the report.

The report also identified the capacity and accessibility improvement measures introduced to the Service during 2020 and outlined a three-stage approach to Service redesign based on evident need.

Alison Peaden, Library Service Manager, gave a detailed overview of changes that had taken place within the Library Service, particularly with regard to digital access of books and magazines through BorrowBox and Press Reader and online activities such as reading groups, creative writing, family history, storytime and craft sessions, which enabled people to participate across the county.  It was hoped that these would continue in a hybrid format, when allowed.

Other activities had included a digital helpline, select and collect, befriending calls, desktop refresh, staff restructure, service redesign and relocation of libraries and investment in new stock in Alnwick, Ponteland and Cramlington, involvement in pop up initiatives and summer camps.  They intended to continue marketing the service and the offer available.

The Head of Cultural Services referred to the creation of 5 hubs in Berwick, Morpeth, Blyth, Hexham and Cramlington and development of the services based on the needs of each locality and delivery of priorities identified in the consultation.  He was very proud of the service and what they had achieved during the pandemic.

Several Members also expressed their thanks to all of the library service staff on the way they had adapted and responded during the crisis.  They made the following comments:

·       Digital connectivity was an issue in many areas.  The model to be adopted prioritised services according to local need and would enable areas with connectivity issues to be identified and addressed.

·       The strategy covered the period 2021 – 26 and it was suggested that Members be given a yearly update.

·       The hubs had been identified following assessment against critieria.  Ashington was a highly valued and well used facility but flexibilty and access to space was better in Blyth.

·       There had not been a huge response from library users under the age of 16, however 25% of respondents had replied on their use as a family, work had been undertaken with the Youth Council and all schools had also been invited to participate.

·       Concern regarding a reduction in posts.  The staffing structure had not resulted in job losses.  The number of professional librarian posts had increased and some fixed term posts had been made permanent.

·       The mobile library service was highly valued, but following changes implemented during the pandemic, consideration would be given into sustainability along with doorstep delivery, befriending and outreach work with Northumberland Communities Together.

RESOLVED that the Cabinet be advised that the Committee supported the recommendations in the report.