Issue details

There is a need to develop a new strategy for the delivery of cultural services to ensure that they can continue to be sustainable over the longer term.  We aim to place libraries and cultural services at the heart of lifelong learning and stronger communities.

It is proposed that a public consultation be carried out focused on a redesign of libraries and cultural services based upon five key principles to underpin a new service strategy:

1. Libraries and cultural services provide and enable opportunities for everyone to learn, access information, acquire new skills, literacy and be involved in their communities.
2. There is a focus on the wellbeing and strengthening of communities, particularly the most vulnerable, to enable them to be resilient.
3. Libraries and cultural services are most effective and efficient when they work in partnership with the public, voluntary, community and private sectors, including through the creation of shared spaces. 
4. New technologies, including digital, enable libraries and cultural services to reach new audiences, and existing audiences in new ways, and offer 24/7 access.
5. Volunteers are crucial community advocates and assets in libraries and cultural services, who also gain valuable skills and relationships through the work they do.