Members of the People Overview & Scrutiny Committee will consider proposed changes to the city’s libraries at the committee’s meeting on 10 November. These changes aim to ensure we deliver a sustainable and affordable library service.
In February, councillors agreed to reduce the Library Service budget by £210,000 through a reduction in public services, including potential library closures and decreasing opening hours.
The report to the People Overview & Scrutiny Committee offers an overview of the processes followed to date and responses to the public consultation.
The report gives the committee the opportunity to review and analyse the process and provide input on the proposals. Any feedback will be taken into account alongside the consultation responses for consideration at December’s Cabinet meeting.
The consultation sought feedback on a range of proposals including a reduction in opening hours at Jubilee and Hove Libraries and the potential closure of Hollingbury, Rottingdean and Westdene Libraries.
The proposed changes at Jubilee and Hove libraries reflect the times when the fewest people access them. The libraries proposed for closure were selected based on their use, geographic spread and the needs of the communities they serve.
A summary of the consultation is outlined below:
Councillor Alan Robins, Cabinet member for Sport, Recreation and Libraries, said: “We’d like to thank everyone who has shared their views on the future of Brighton & Hove libraries through the online survey, at our public meetings and by email.
“No decisions have been made yet, but it is vital that we deliver savings that will allow us to balance our budget while protecting library services in Brighton & Hove where they are most needed.”
