Decision details

RESOLVED:

That the Cabinet:

1.    Approves Hillingdon Library Service’s draft Strategy 2023-27 in Appendix 1 for consultation;

2.    Agrees as part of this, to consult on new tiered library opening hours as set out in the report and;

3.    Agrees to receive the final Library Strategy 2023-2027 at a later meeting, informed by the findings from the proposed consultation process.

Reasons for decision

Cabinet agreed to consult on a draft library service strategy which would set out

a clear vision for the service for the next five years along with proposals for updated tiered opening hours at libraries.

The Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services noted how the strategy would keep libraries at the heart of the Borough’s communities, not only with good access to books and digital service, but to provide a broader programme of community activity in the coming years, supporting residents’ health and wellbeing.

The Cabinet Member thanked the Library and Communication Teams in preparing the readable draft strategy and the Leader of the Council welcomed the investment in libraries by the Council.

Alternative options considered and rejected

Cabinet could have decided to have no strategy in place, or propose alternate opening times for libraries.