Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Deputy Chief Executive

The report provides an update and overview with the developments in the Library Service, including an update on the Open Library initiative. The report also sets out key statistical information for the service.

The Scrutiny Committee is invited to note the report.

Officer contact: Janet Wood, 0161 474 4443, janet.wood@stockport.gov.uk

A representative of the Deputy Chief Executive submitted a report (copies of which had been circulated) providing the Scrutiny Committee with an update and overview of developments in the Library Service, including an update on the Open Library initiative and providing key statistical information for the service.

The Cabinet Member for Reform & Governance (Councillor Elise Wilson) attended the meeting to respond to questions from the Scrutiny Committee.

The following comments were made/ issues raised:-

·         Councillors welcomed the report and the value of the services provide in and by libraries.

·         Comment was sought on what officers and the cabinet member envisaged for the library service in five years’ time. In response it was stated that the Council had taken a different approach to libraries than other Council and sought to enhance the digital officer available and to support residents in developing the skills needed to make the most of the digital offer. It was important to ensure that libraries were embedded within their communities, central to how we deliver services to local people and they were not simply static institutions but part of a wider network of services. Ideally services would be collocated to increase uptake of library services.

·         Further information was sought on the number of users of Open+. In response it was stated that 60 people were register in Bramhall where the pilot was launched but there had been a soft launch in the other six libraries so up take was expected to be low. The service wanted to ensure the technology and procedures were right before publicising the service more widely. It was also commented that for libraries with more limited opening hours this approach had led to positive engagement with users.

·         Clarification was sought on what measures were in place to prevent access by under 16 year olds to the library during Open + hours and what would be done should they gain access. In response it was clarified that access by under 16s was prevented for safeguarding reasons as in other circumstances young people accessing the library was to be encouraged and under 16s could access the service if accompanied by their parents. Users of the service would need to register first and receive an induction. The libraries were covered by CCTV to monitor usage.

RESOLVED – (1) That the report be noted.

(2) That the Deputy Chief Executive be requested to submit a further report to a future meeting updating the Scrutiny Committee on progress with the roll-out of the Open+ service and providing further detail on the future direction of the library service.