Have your say on library service
COUNCIL LAUNCHES SECOND ROUND OF CONSULTATION
Council chiefs are urging Wearsiders to have their say on the future of Sunderland’s library services.
The city council is launching a second round of consultation in the light of what it describes as “unprecedented cuts” to its budget.
The council wants to hear from library users and nonlibrary users alike as well as potential partners in the voluntary, community, public and private sectors.
Proposals being put forward include the further development of digital library services, at the same time as looking to reduce the number of static libraries operated by the council.
The city library has been moved from its Fawcett Street site to its old home in the Museum and Winter Gardens as part of the cuts.
The latest consultation asks people how strongly they support:
Providing a city centre li- brary and town centre libraries in Washington and Houghton.
Developing digital library services, which include access to the online catalogue, membership and renewals, e-books, e-audio books, emagazines and a library app.
Continuing to provide the books at home service, which takes books to people in their own homes if they have mobility problems, or other health issues that prevent them visiting a library.
Providing a city centre library supported by community book collections and an outreach programme in local communities.
Seeking formal expressions of interest from community organisations and community groups to operate the remaining libraries as community venues which include a library offer.
Looking at the feasibility of openlibraries,whichallowlibraries to open with or without staff present.
Library services working more closely with libraries at the University of Sunderland and Sunderland College.
Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Housing and Adult Services Coun John Kelly said: “The proposed changes reflect the fact that we’ve seen unprecedented cuts to our budget since 2010 as a result of Government austerity measures and cost pressures.”
People have until Monday, January 23, to have their say by completing the online surveyat:http://sunderland-consult.limehouse.co.uk/public/ city_services/culture_and_ tourism/phase_2_-_library_ consultation.