To agree remodelling of the Delivered Library Services from a universal mobile service to a home delivery service based upon the needs of the users, and to encourage delivery of community library sites.

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 was agreed; and

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

1.    The changes proposed aim to create a more targeted service for people who would not be able to access library services through any other means.  Through this more targeted approach there is potential to work with other partners and services to provide a range of information services.

2.    The library service is required to make £200,000 cost reductions during 2011-12, £40,000 of which is expected to come from the review of the Delivered Services.

1.    The alternative option would be to continue with the current universal mobile library service.  This option is inherently expensive and would not deliver the required savings.

2.    The service would need to consider the closure of main libraries or community transfer to achieve the budget targets.