Libraries Fit for the Future programme

Cumberland Council is seeking to ensure our Library Service is 'Fit for the Future'.

We are proud of the Library Service; however, as a new unitary authority, with new strategic priorities and a rapidly changing socio-cultural environment, we need to consider if what we do currently is fit for the future.

The Libraries Fit for the Future programme will include:

• an engagement exercise to gather the views of members of the public and other stakeholders, including a survey
• reviewing and analysing data to understand current and future demographics
• develop an understanding of what people want from our libraries, what is needed and what we can deliver

Once we have this information, we will be able to make proposals on what our Library Service offer could be and how it can best be delivered.

Project timescales

• April 2025: launch of public survey
• April/May 2025 to summer 2025: survey of residents' views supported by drop-in sessions and workshops, and engagement with external stakeholders.
• September 2025 to December 2025: analysis of data and responses from engagement sessions and surveys, developing proposals and consultation if required

Contact us for more information about the Libraries Fit for the Future programme.

Email: futurelibraries@cumberland.gov.uk

Public survey

A public survey inviting local people to give their views on the current library offer and what they’d like to see in the future went live on 22 April 2025.

To complete the survey, click the button below.

Take the survey

Have your say at public engagement sessions

As part of the first phase of the programme, the council will be engaging with a range of stakeholders in a variety of different ways including:

• workshops
• drop-in sessions