To consider implications and choices regarding Hereford library and museum in light of its current temporary closure and impacts on overall library, museums and customer services provision.

THAT,

(a)            subject to Council approval of the capital programme in December 2015; the Hereford Library Users Group (working with other relevant stakeholders) be invited to confirm by the end of February 2016, whether or not they wish to work with the council to explore options for future service delivery of a library in Hereford;

(b)            subject to Council approval of the capital programme, works be undertaken at the earliest opportunity to remove asbestos from the Broad Street building at a cost of £86k; and

a further report be brought forward following consultation with stakeholders to determine a preferred option.

To determine if there is sufficient support to collaborate on an ambitious plan to create an improved library facility in Hereford before investing in the current site to ‘make good’.  The recommendations are concerned with progressing options – in the first instance exploring if there is sufficient interest to explore whether a community fundraising scheme has viability to achieve the shared ambition of a sustainable and improved facility either at the current site or an alternative location.

To progress work to remove asbestos, that work being necessary whatever option is finally selected.

1                 That the current site is made good for the services to return to the venue to resume status quo; this is not currently recommended as there has been insufficient time to establish the degree of community interest in developing different service delivery models and does not address the longer term maintenance needs of the building or the fact that the building is not sufficiently flexible to meet the demands of a modern library service.

2                 The authority seeks alternative sites; this is not recommended as the council does not have sufficient funds of its own to enable such a move, and regardless of its future use work is required to remove the asbestos.

3                 The current site is enhanced beyond repair and maintenance; this is not currently recommended as the council does not have sufficient funds to support this.

4                 The services are withdrawn to meet the authority’s required budget savings; this is not recommended as it is unlikely to enable the council to fulfil its statutory duties or its wish to secure the future of library services in the county in a way which is sustainable.