Decision details

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(A)      endorse the draft Library Strategy as an ambitious plan to ensure our libraries remain at the heart of our communities and open to all;

(B)        supports the implementation of Open Access technology in 4 libraries to aid the ability for them to be in use when otherwise they would be closed;

(C)        support the clustering of libraries within 4 geographical areas;

(D)        endorse the approach to work up plans for the remodelling of Hamworthy, Rossmore, Southbourne and Charminster libraries as community hubs to enable wider use and understand the options for Winton Library;

(E)        endorse the development of options appraisals in relation to Creekmoor and Parkstone libraries, in time, as required;

(F)        support the continued creation of Friends’ Groups and volunteer roles in supporting the library offer;

(G)       endorse the high-level action plan which will be developed to support strategy delivery;

(H)        support consultation needs on a project-by-project basis over the life of the strategy;

(I)           delegate authority to the Director of Customer and Property in conjunction with the Portfolio Holders for Culture and Communities, in relation to decisions arising from the strategy and action plan; and

(J)         recognise the key role that arts, culture, creative health and public health can play in the future flourishing of our libraries and support ongoing work with Arts Council England to explore NPO status over the lifetime of the Strategy.

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Customer, Communications and Culture

Reason

To ensure that the Library Strategy for BCP over the next five years is implemented.