Change of opening hours considered for Brodick library
A library shake up will see opening hours likely to change at Brodick Library.
However, bosses have pledged it will still be open the same amount of hours and, despite a £357,000 budget cut, none of the libraries in North Ayrshire will close.
But before going ahead with the move, a consultation process is to take place from Monday, October 5 until December 15.
A range of consultation methods, including online surveys and local focus groups will be used with the council cabinet set to discuss the results in February next year. It’s hoped that changes to the opening hours will build on the efficiency measures that have been introduced over the last five years including the development of new services, sharing premises and improving processes and procedures, while enabling all libraries to remain open. One option being considered to help with staff rotas would see Brodick Library opening until 7.30pm on a Tuesday, but closing at 5pm on a Friday. The other would see it closing half a hour earlier on a Thursday and at 5pm on a Friday, but would instead be open an additional three hours from 2pm to 5pm on a Saturday.
But head of service, Audrey Sutton, told The Banner this week: ‘These are only options. If anyone has a better idea of how we can run the service within budget we are open to any suggestions.’
Research has taken place to examine how modern library services are used, including the uptake of digital resources and e-books and this will be used to assist in discussions with library users dur- ing the consultation period.
It is hoped that a small reduction in the opening hours will deliver efficiencies and ensure that the impact on service users and staff will be minimal.
Councillor Alan Hill, cabinet member for community and culture, said: ‘As everyone is aware, these have been challenging times for local authorities across Scotland.
‘We recognised the importance of libraries and the fact none are being shut is testament to that. We have had to be innovative and creative, exploring every option available to us, to ensure that we provide the best possible services possible.
‘We have looked at each of the libraries and established when they are at their busiest and alternatively when they are most quiet. With that information, and the views of our the public, we can provide viable solutions that best meet the needs of the people who use the libraries.
‘Any proposed changes to the opening hours will be necessary, but small, and I’m sure the libraries will continue to prosper and be invaluable for our communities.’