Agenda item

a.  Approved a library model of predominantly self-service library service from 4 buildings across the borough (The Curve, Britwell Hub, Cippenham Library and Langley Library) with the opening hours set out in paragraph 2.16.1 of the report.

b.  That a report be received a report at July 2023 Cabinet to review the performance of the library service in the first 2 months of the 2023/24 operating model, including performance against planned opening hours and the blend of footfall across the opening hours.

The Lead Member for Children’s Services, Lifelong Learning & Skills introduced a report on the future provision of the library service.

The report to Cabinet in March 2022 had approved the Library Service Plan 2022-27 following public consultation.  It had been agreed that a further report would be provided to Cabinet 12 months after that decision to provide further recommendations on how best to deliver library services within the Council’s constrained financial position in 2023/24.

The report recommended that in 2023/24 a predominantly self-service library service be delivered from the four existing buildings – The Curve, Britwell Hub, Cippenham Library and Langley Library.  There would be amended opening hours as set out in paragraph 2.16.1 of the report, the maintenance of an online library offer and expanded volunteering opportunities.  The proposals would deliver a further budget saving of £276k.

The Cabinet welcomed the proposal to retain the existing four buildings and highlighted the importance of ensuring the staffing arrangements were resilient so that the revised opening hours could be delivered as proposed.  An update report would be provided to Cabinet in July 2023.

After due consideration, the recommendations were approved.

Resolved –

(a)  Approved a library model of predominantly self-service library service from 4 buildings across the borough (The Curve, Britwell Hub, Cippenham Library and Langley Library) with the opening hours set out in paragraph 2.16.1 of the report.

(b)  That a report be received a report at July 2023 Cabinet to review the performance of the library service in the first 2 months of the 2023/24 operating model, including performance against planned opening hours and the blend of footfall across the opening hours.