Libraries Strategy Consultation
Bexley Library Service is undertaking a public consultation on a draft Library Strategy 2025-2030 to seek feedback from residents and library users about the proposals. The consultation will run from 11 November 2024 to 13 January 2025.
There are no changes being proposed to the locations of libraries or the number of libraries (either Council or Community run) as part of this consultation.
This consultation relates to the vision and activities that it is proposed will take place within libraries in Bexley.
Phases
Consideration of Survey Results
Libraries Strategy Consultation
- Project: Libraries Strategy
- Survey open: 11 November 2024 - 13 January 2025
Do you agree or disagree with this vision for Libraries in Bexley?
The following priorities are the proposed four major themes of our work on which we intend to focus over the years ahead:
- Literacy and Reading – To promote reading through a wide range of books and other resources for adults and children.
- Culture and Creativity – To expand on the culture and creativity Bexley residents can currently experience and participate in within the Borough.
- Digital and Economic Improvement – Providing quality information and digital support to help individuals and businesses grow.
- Health and Wellbeing – Promoting healthy living through signposting and connecting with communities.
The order of importance of these priorities were ranked as below:
Most important: Literacy and Reading
2nd: Culture and Creativity
3rd: Health and wellbeing
Least important: Digital and economic improvement
Are there any other priorities you think we should include in our Strategy?
Respondents to the Libraries Strategy Consultation have highlighted several priorities for inclusion in the strategy. A recurring theme is the desire for extended opening hours, with suggestions for increased accessibility during evenings and weekends to accommodate different schedules. The importance of libraries as safe, warm, and welcoming community spaces is emphasized, with calls for them to remain open and accessible to all.
Several respondents suggest that libraries should tackle social issues such as loneliness, fairness, and wellbeing. Computer literacy and digital access are also mentioned as key areas for development.
Activities and events, particularly for young people and children, are highlighted as a way to bring the community together and support development. Respondents also mention the importance of making libraries safer and more accommodating for neurodiverse users.
Education is another key theme, with suggestions to always encourage reading among adults and children. Some respondents propose that libraries could offer meeting spaces for private meetings or volunteer groups as a source of income and community service.
Improvements to facilities, decor, and the availability of books in multiple languages are also suggested. Lastly, some respondents believe that libraries should be a place that is relevant and useful for all ages, ensuring that the community is aware of the services offered.
Why are libraries important to you and what do you use them for?
Respondents highly value libraries as important community hubs offering free access to books, information, and digital resources like computers and the internet. Many use libraries for borrowing books, both fiction and non-fiction, for leisure reading and educational purposes. Digital library services such as Libby and PressReader are frequently utilized. Libraries are seen as safe, inclusive spaces conducive to studying, with some respondents specifically mentioning the importance of having a quiet place to work outside the home.
Children's services, including book borrowing, story times, and summer reading schemes, are mentioned as vital for young people's development. Respondents appreciate the variety of activities available for children without the need to purchase books. Libraries are also recognized for their role in supporting older people by providing social contact, large print books, and assistance with digital skills.
Community activities like knit and natter groups, youth clubs, and hobby groups are appreciated, as they foster social connections and provide a venue for shared interests. The importance of libraries in offering a welcoming atmosphere for all ages, from preschoolers to students to the elderly, is emphasized.
Some respondents note that they have used libraries less since the pandemic or as their children have grown, but they still acknowledge the value of libraries for others in the community. The role of library staff is also highlighted as being helpful and kind, contributing to the positive environment of libraries.
Overall, libraries are seen as essential for providing free resources and services that benefit a wide range of community members, from facilitating a love of reading to offering a space for community engagement and lifelong learning.
How do you think our library service could be improved?
Respondents frequently suggest that extending opening hours and increasing the number of days libraries are open would significantly improve the library service. Many express a desire for libraries to be accessible every day including weekends and evenings to accommodate different schedules. The need for more funding and investment in new books and activities is also highlighted. Respondents mention the importance of modernising library facilities and increasing the range of books, particularly audiobooks.
There is a call for more community engagement, with suggestions for libraries to host varied activities outreach programs and to involve different community groups. Some respondents feel that libraries could do more to attract younger audiences and suggest implementing security measures to manage disruptive behavior.
The use of volunteers to extend service hours is mentioned as well as the need for libraries to focus on core services rather than taking on responsibilities of other council departments. Some respondents advocate for better promotion of library services outside of key events like the summer reading challenge and for initiatives that encourage creativity, such as writing workshops.
Digital access and services are also a concern, with calls for more digital options improved access to e-books and the removal of late fees, especially for those unable to return books on time due to work schedules. Finally, there is a suggestion to join the London Libraries Consortium for a broader choice of materials.
Please choose 3 ideas that you would most like to see in your local library.
We want to hear your ideas.
Respondents have suggested a variety of ideas to enhance library services, with a strong emphasis on cultural and educational activities. Frequent suggestions include the introduction of more reading and book clubs, author talks, and literary events. There is interest in hosting drama performances, spoken word, poetry evenings, and musical events.
Educational support services are also in demand, such as homework clubs for children, adult literacy classes, and technology assistance. Respondents have expressed the need for libraries to provide help with public forms and job applications, especially for those without internet access.
Community engagement is another key theme, with suggestions for libraries to host events like meet the councillor sessions, advisory services on local government, and crime prevention advice. There's also a call for more child-friendly activities such as story times and clubs for trading stickers or cards.
Several responses indicate a desire for libraries to support local history and economy through craft markets and ward-specific historical archives. Additionally, there are requests for more inclusive facilities such as fully functioning toilets and desk space for electronic devices.
Overall, respondents are looking for libraries to become multifunctional spaces that offer a wide range of cultural, educational, and community-focused services.