A new strategy for Croydon’s Library service has been released ahead of a Cabinet Meeting on 31st January, for consultation over the next few weeks.
After months of research and consultation with user groups and staff, the new proposals offer a revitalised service with greater outreach. The new model provides a strong core offer for residents of all ages with libraries open five or six days per week - including provision of books & Wi-Fi alongside reading, digital, cultural and health programmes. By operating from fewer buildings our libraries can become true community hubs. No job losses are proposed.
Many residents will know and have experienced the reduced library service since the bankruptcy, with some libraries open as little as two days a week. The strategy pursued by the previous Labour Administration was to continually “salami-slice” opening hours in order to save money, leading to a failing library service that is unsustainable for residents, the Council and for library staff.
The aim of the new strategy is to streamline the service into a smaller number of buildings, so that the remaining libraries can be open five or six days a week, including Saturdays, helping the service to become more sustainable.
The Libraries which the Council are consulting on closing are Bradmore Green, Broad Green, Sanderstead and Shirley. Although we know that closing these libraries will have an initial impact, doing nothing is not an option - because the current service does not work well for anyone. These particular locations have been chosen based on a number of factors such as visitor numbers, size and condition of the buildings, the size and needs of the communities they serve and running costs. Closing these four Libraries will allow the remaining Libraries to open their doors five or six days per week including Saturdays, instead of the common two day opening hours. Increased online services and increased outreach facilities around the locations being consulted on for closure will also be put in place, to ensure that all residents can access Croydon’s library service.
Jason Perry, Mayor of Croydon, said:
"We are focused on ensuring that Croydon’s Library service allows residents to learn and connect with others. The current essentially failing service is not delivering as it should - nor is it sustainable, with many libraries open just two days a week. The days of ‘salami slicing’ cannot continue - it is not fair on residents, or library staff. These proposals for a transformed, sustainable library service will mean that residents have access to libraries which are open many more days per week, acting as better hubs for their respective communities. The strategy will create an enhanced service that is much more flexible and fit for purpose.”
Cabinet will meet on 31st January to decide on whether to put the plans out to consultation. If agreed, residents will be encouraged to share their feedback on the proposed changes when the consultation opens following the Cabinet meeting.
