The Corporate Infrastructure and Regulatory Services Scrutiny Committee is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, 29 April 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a discussion on the outcomes of a recent consultation regarding Devon's library service and the development of a new vision for these community hubs.

Library Consultation Update

A significant portion of the meeting is expected to focus on an update regarding the consultation on Devon's Library Service. The report pack indicates that the council received a substantial number of responses, with over 25,500 completed, including more than 5,300 paper surveys and 2,246 from young people. The consultation invited views on proposals to reduce statutory opening hours across the county from 1297 to 914 hours, implement an area-based opening strategy, and explore ways to extend opening hours through technology, volunteers, and community management.

Emerging themes from the consultation suggest that while most respondents are generally satisfied with the current service, around 50% believe proposed hour reductions would affect their visit frequency. There has been a positive response to volunteering, with over 6,000 individuals expressing willingness to help, and 70% are in favour of extending opening hours. Respondents have also shown interest in Open + technology, which allows members to access library buildings outside of normal hours, and community-managed libraries, though more information is desired. Concerns have been raised about the opposition to reduced opening hours, particularly for children and older residents, and the potential for reduced staffed hours to undermine libraries' role as safe community spaces. Calls for improved book stock and digital availability, alongside support for expanding valued services like children's activities and digital support, have also been noted.

The report pack also outlines an emerging Vision for Devon's Libraries, which aims to provide strategic direction and a framework for future work. This vision, informed by the consultation, the council's Library Needs Assessment, and national research, describes libraries as Trusted • Welcoming • Community‑Led hubs that support learning, connection, and well-being. The vision emphasises libraries evolving beyond traditional book lending to become multi-purpose spaces that reduce digital exclusion, improve health, host cultural activities, and provide a base for early help. It highlights the importance of libraries as safe, free public spaces and outlines a commitment to removing physical, digital, and psychological barriers to access. The vision also addresses supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and the potential for co-location of services within libraries to simplify access and strengthen their role as local hubs. The report suggests that the council's budget decisions regarding libraries should be considered in light of these consultation proposals and the emerging vision.

The committee is expected to note the positive engagement and emerging feedback from the consultation and the council's emerging Vision for Devon's Libraries. The report pack indicates that further analysis is ongoing, and formal consultation responses and recommendations for Cabinet will be developed in due course. The committee is invited to provide feedback on the development of this vision.