A consultation and engagement exercise asking people for their views on how library services should be delivered in Brampton and Longtown has started today [Wednesday 14 October].
Users of the libraries and the wider communities will be asked for feedback on several options for each site that are being considered by Cumberland Council.
The options that the council wishes to consult on centre around the location of the library buildings. There will be an online survey which can be accessed from the council website, a paper version which can be obtained from the libraries and the opportunity to attend drop-in sessions with dates still being finalised.
The six-week exercise, which ends on Wednesday 25 November, is part of the council's wider Libraries Fit for the Future programme, which aims make sure the service meets current and future needs.
It follows on from the completion of the Strategic Needs Assessment, which was published in June, and was produced on the back of a wide-ranging engagement programme which took place last year. More than 1,500 people participated in the survey and attended workshops and drop-in sessions to give their views on library services.
Brampton and Longtown have been identified for further review because of a combination of service, property, sustainability, accessibility and strategic factors.
In Longtown, the three options being considered are:
- Option 1 – Retain Longtown Library in current building
- Option 2 – Co-locate within Longtown Family Hub
- Option 3 - Co-locate within Longtown Community Centre or another shared community venue in Longtown
In Brampton, the options being considered are:
- Option 1 – Retain Brampton Library in current building
- Option 2 – Co-locate within Community Centre or shared public building in Brampton
- Option 3 – Co-locate within the Moot Hall
Cllr Anne Quilter, Executive member Vibrant and Healthy Places, said: "The work we've done so far as part of the Fit for the Future programme has provided clear evidence that libraries and the wide range of services they provide are really valued by our communities.
"There is also evidence that our residents wish us to review how services are delivered so they remain accessible, relevant and sustainable in the future.
"We are now taking a closer look at how the service can be best delivered in Brampton and Longtown and I'd encourage library members and people within the wider community to give their feedback as part of this consultation."
The library service is a key part of the council’s prevention focused approach, ensuring people can get the right support early, confidently and in a way that works for them.
