The Cabinet Member Enterprise and Culture presented the report and informed Cabinet:

·         That the policy for market towns was to link services to libraries to ensure continued viability.

·         The provision of community based libraries could extend the number of library opening hours across the County.

·         Concern for the vulnerable and house bound would see the extension of the home delivery service to those whose needs match the criteria for the service. The home delivery service to nursing homes would continue.

·         The provision of the service was part of the core values to retain main libraries.

·         The viability of community based libraries was being assessed on a case by case basis linking to the overall strategy.

It was noted that positive support had been received from customers.  Discussions were being held with Parish Councils on community based libraries but there was no set model and officers were looking at models used by other authorities.  With the advent of electronic books a digital approach was also being investigated.

RESOLVED

            That:

a)      the redesign of the delivered library services in favour of a home delivery service based upon the needs of the users and the withdrawal of a universal mobile library service be agreed; and

b)     local groups and organisations be invited to consider operating community based libraries.