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Decision details

Libraries Future Delivery

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Sports and Leisure

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: Yes

Is subject to call in?: No

Decision:

The implementation of the proposed structure for the Library service, including the deletion of the current structure at Appendix 1 and its replacement with the proposed new structure at Appendix 2 with effect from 1 April 2017 be approved.

The following key factors have influenced the changes proposed in this                   report and shaped proposals for the future operating model:

 

·         The public library sector is in constant change and  must evolve to meet  the needs of communities, now and in the future, with a greater focus on co-location of services and digital knowledge, learning and information.

·         Continuing financial challenges for local government over the next three years with a requirement for library services to cut costs and become even more efficient.

·         Changes in demand for library services: customers requiring more digital and online formats and use of libraries for different purposes, whilst some traditional activities are in decline. However these changes do not happen in a coordinated way and may result in additional cost pressures (e.g. providing books both in print and e-book formats).

·         The need to be more efficient than ever and transform the library service to meet the councils’ common ambitions for community focus, more volunteering and greater commercial income.

The proposed new structure for the Tri-borough Library and Archives service will deliver the required outcomes to meet the agreed borough’s target savings for   2017/18, whilst still delivering the borough’s ambitions for the service. 

The new structure will provide greater clarity of roles, responsibilities and accountabilities; provide a robust career and development path for employees; improve marketing of services and exploitation of commercial opportunities, enabling the service to be more sustainable in the long term; and ensure further innovation and collaboration with other services.

Publication date: 16/12/2016

Date of decision: 14/12/2016

Accompanying Documents: