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While libraries bring people together, support learning, provide access to information and open doors to opportunity, the way people use them is changing.
We face tough financial times and so need to make sure the service can thrive for years to come.
On Wednesday (18 June), our Cabinet agreed to move forward with a 12-week public consultation this summer.
The consultation will run from July to October and ask for ideas and feedback on how we can:
- improve community outreach so more people can access services,
- adjust opening hours to better match demand, and
- explore how to provide strong services with fewer buildings.
We must save £44m over the next three years, including £433,000 from the library service from 2026.
Currently, services are delivered from 10 local libraries, one community-run library in Congresbury, and a mobile library visiting 27 areas.
We also have the home delivery service for people who can’t visit a library in person, services for care homes, and a 24/7 digital library for eBooks, audiobooks, newspapers and more.
No final decisions will be made until we’ve heard from our communities and residents.
More details about the consultation and how to get involved will be available in July.