Cumberland Council has today published the findings from a comprehensive public survey and engagement programme on the future of its library service.
The feedback is contained in a document known as a Strategic Needs Assessment (SNA), which brings together insights from the survey as well as from drop-in sessions and workshops held over spring and summer last year. These sessions involved a range of groups, including schools and individuals with protected characteristics.
The survey and wider engagement exercise formed part of the Council’s Fit for the Future programme which aims to futureproof the area’s library service, ensuring it continues to meet the needs of local people going forward. More than 1,500 people – which included current library members and non-users as well as staff - participated in the survey. The SNA also contains a host of other information, including demographic data for Cumberland, which is being considered as part of ongoing plans to review the service.
Some of the feedback includes:
- Praise for library staff’s knowledge, professionalism and friendliness
- A desire from library members to see investment in buildings and facilities
- A growing demand for digital services
- A want for expanded/more integrated services – further connecting libraries to other council services and other organisations
- Increase awareness of the breadth and variety of services on offer in libraries currently
Cllr Anne Quilter, Executive member Vibrant and Healthy Places, said: “I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to the Fit for the Future project so far; whether it’s the many people who took part in the survey and engagement sessions or the hard-working staff who’ve been giving their thoughts and ideas on how to develop the Library Service.
“One of the main aims of the project is to continue to deliver library services that are welcoming and accessible to all, while making the most of digital-based offerings which are becoming increasingly popular.
“Now the survey results have been analysed and the SNA prepared; we’re developing and exploring a range of options on how to develop our services.
“It is important to stress that no decisions have been made about making significant changes to the library service, and we are currently exploring a range of options on how to develop our offering. Any proposals for significant change to the service would be subject to internal and external consultation before any decisions are made.”
Work to implement some changes, based on the public feedback, has already got underway. For example, earlier this spring the council’s customer services provision in Wigton and Keswick moved from standalone offices into the towns' libraries. Relocating these essential services will further integrate those teams and will better support those who need them.
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.
Document links
- More information on the SNA and the Fit for the Future project can be found on this page.
- A direct link to the SNA document is also available here.
Consultation on new library byelaws
In addition, Cumberland’s library service has also launched a consultation on a revised set of byelaws.
The byelaws exist to set clear, legally enforceable rules that protect library users, staff, and property, while ensuring libraries remain safe, welcoming spaces for everyone to access information and services fairly. The byelaws have been updated to reflect changes in service and technology.
Copies of the draft can be found at Cumbria House in Carlisle, Carlisle Library, Workington Library and Whitehaven Library until Friday July 3. They can also be found online.
