York’s Conservative-led council has begun a 14-week consultation with residents on the future shape of the city’s library services prior to entering into a new contract for library services in 2019.
York’s libraries are very popular, with Explore York providing excellent value for money, but library services will need around £3 million spending on them in the coming years both to improve and update current facilities and to realign the way services are delivered to reflect what residents want and need in a digital world.
The Conservative-led council envisions York’s libraries as centres of learning and opportunity for all: Innovative spaces stocked with a broad range of materials and learning programmes complemented by the latest digital technologies with free, online access that support people with the information they need.
The survey also asks whether residents would like to see additional services available within libraries.
Councillor Keith Myers, Conservative spokesperson for culture, leisure and tourism, said: “It’s important that we really understand what our residents would like to see for the future of their library services- the budget is tight and we need to get our priorities right. I urge everyone to take this chance to let us know their views.
“To have your input on what you would like to see for the future of your library services and help to guide the council’s vision for them, please complete the survey before Wednesday 14th February 2018 at www.york.gov.uk/consultations. Staff at any library or West Offices will be happy to help.”