NELC: 'There would be advantages to bringing library services together under one roof'

 

                                                          

Council keen to 'align library service with community needs'

 

AS the row over the future of the borough's libraries service simmers, North East Lincolnshire Council says its current review  was prompted by a post-Covid decline in library visits  of approximately 43 per cent.

It states: "There would be economic and social advantages of bringing services together under one roof.

"It needs to be recognised that the current library buildings  require significant future investment to develop vibrant spaces that better align libraries to meet community needs.  

"A focus on children and young people is a clear priority while continuing to build on the service’s strong connection with the older community."

The NELC cabinet member with responsibility for the libraries is Cllr Hayden Dawkins (Con, Humberston and New Waltham) who states: "I wish to make it clear that no decisions have been made on the future of the service. 

"That will only take place after a full analysis of the  consultation responses and further discussions.

"The one main aim here is  to ensure a full, vibrant and growing service  that is future-proofed and that everyone can enjoy."

He continues: "Our vision is to create libraries that appeal to all ages and offer something for everyone. 

"Looking at other services around the country we can see that bringing services together and creating community hubs has worked well. 

"Immingham, which is  located in the town’s civic centre, is an example of that."

NELC says it will  also be setting up focus groups and community engagement events in order "to capture as full a picture as possible".

The consultation, which began in mid-April,  ends on July 9.

It  does not include Immingham Library as no change to the current location is being considered.