As part of Cumberland Council’s assessment of the current library offer and services, a public engagement survey “Libraries Fit for the Future” was launched on 22 April 2025 which ran for just over 10 weeks, closing on 4 July 2025. Widely publicised, accessible online and in paper format, the survey invited residents to have their say on the library services offered by Cumberland Council and aimed to understand the views of members of the public and other stakeholders around what is wanted from Cumberland’s libraries, what is needed and what can be delivered. The survey sought the views from current library users and non-users alike to ensure the service meets the needs of the community.
In addition to the survey 26 drop-in sessions were held at all libraries providing opportunities for face-to-face conversations and feedback. Focus groups were also held with various groups including school children to gather input from specific segments of the community. In total about 30 focus group meetings were held, with views captured from children under 11 years of age, children / young people aged between 11 and 16 years, adults, parents with babies, older people, people with disabilities, non-English speakers and a number of mixed groups.
Comments were also invited via social media.