Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 5, 2025

Purpose: Cabinet will be asked to agree next steps for libraries and potential closures following the recent libraries public consultation.

Content: Cabinet   1.     Considered and noted the results of the Library Strategy consultation;   2.     Approved and has adopted the Library Strategy 2024-29 (as attached to this report);   3.     Agreed the closure of three branch libraries from 1 April 2025 as set out in this report;   4.     Agreed that the three branch libraries are mothballed from 1 April 2025 and delegates to the Strategic Director of Place the authority to use the branch library buildings for any appropriate meanwhile use, provided that any proposals for the disposal or long term use of the branch libraries be brought to a future Cabinet meeting;   5.     Agreed that the mitigating actions in section 5 are progressed;   6.     Agreed that the budget for book stock is continued as set out in this report.