Purpose

This report seeks approval of the
sustainability plan for libraries.

Content

2.1         
That having considered the information provided in
this report and its appendices, Cabinet agrees to make the
following changes to existing library provision, being satisfied
that its remaining provision complies with its statutory obligation
to provide a comprehensive and efficient library service
 

2.1.1  Cabinet agrees to
reduce opening hours at Jubilee Library by 5 hours/week on Monday
evenings and Sunday afternoons from 1st April 2026
;

 

2.1.2    Cabinet agrees
to reduce opening hours at Hove Library by 5 hours/week on
Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons from 1st April
2026;

 

2.1.3    Cabinet agrees
to close Hollingbury Library on 31st March 2026 and notes that
officers will work with partners in exploring alternative options
for future community
based provision;

 

2.1.4    Cabinet agrees
to continue the existing library provision in Rottingdean with
a further report to be brought back to Cabinet in 12 months to
review the outcome of work with community partners;

 

2.1.5    Cabinet agrees
to close Westdene Library on 31st March 2026 and notes that
officers will work with partners in exploring alternative options
for future community
based provision;
 

2.2         
That Cabinet delegates authority to the Corporate
Director for Families, Children and Wellbeing, working in
consultation with the Cabinet Member for Sport & Leisure, to
take all steps necessary or incidental to the delivery of the
recommendations in paras 2.1.1 to 2.1.5 inclusive.