There is just one week left for local residents to complete a survey about Cumberland’s Library Service – the results of which will help the council ensure the offering is fit for the future.
The survey is part of the council’s Fit for the Future programme which aims to futureproof the area’s Library Service, ensuring it meets the needs of local people going forward.
More than 1,000 people – both current library members and non-users - have already taken part in the survey which closes on Friday, July 4. It asks a variety of questions, including asking for feedback on things like library buildings, digital services, interactions with staff, and ideas for the future.
It can be accessed via the following link - consult.cumberland.gov.uk/ - paper copies are also available in libraries.
Alongside the survey, over the last few weeks staff have been hosting drop-in sessions in each of Cumberland’s libraries as well as holding workshops with different groups, including in schools, to gather feedback from local people.
One of the council’s main aims is to continue to deliver library services that are welcoming and accessible to all and make the most of digital-based offerings which are becoming increasingly popular.
Cllr Anne Quilter, the council’s Executive member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said: “Thank you to all those people who’ve taken part in the survey so far, your feedback will be incredibly valuable to us as we look to ensure that the offering from Cumberland’s Library Service is fit for the future. Time is, though, running out for you to have your say and I’d encourage you if you haven’t already to fill it in.
“We’re very proud of the Library Service already, but as a new authority with our own priorities and ambitions, as well as the rapidly changing needs of our community and user habits, we want to ensure that the service will meet the needs of people in the future.”
Once all the information is gathered the council will then be able to make proposals on what Cumberland’s Library Service could offer and how it can best be delivered. Residents and other stakeholders will be kept up to date with ongoing developments.
To learn more about the Fit for the Future programme, go to www.cumberland.gov.uk/libraries-and-archives/libraries-fit-future-programme
