The Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission met to review the implementation and outcomes of the Libraries Strategy 2022-2026 and to discuss suggestions for the Commission's work programme for the upcoming municipal year. The meeting heard that the library service has successfully transformed into community hubs, offering a wide range of services beyond book lending, and that the proposed reductions to opening hours were halted due to increased government funding.

Libraries Strategy 2022-2026 Update

The Commission received an update on the implementation and outcomes of the Libraries Strategy 2022-2026. The strategy has seen Hackney's library network evolve into vibrant community hubs, with overall footfall remaining strong despite temporary closures. The Fit for the Future workforce restructure, implemented in 2023, has led to significant improvements in staff engagement and a reduction in sickness rates. Investment in key sites, such as Hackney Central Library, has resulted in increased commercial income and high user satisfaction. Libraries are now recognised as vital community wellbeing and civic infrastructure, providing support for vulnerable residents through digital inclusion, health and wellbeing partnerships, and accessible co-working spaces. The service has also seen growth in usage by women, children, and young people, and its customer base reflects the borough's ethnic diversity.

Councillor Jasmine O'Connor, a member of the Commission, questioned the strategic alignment of the library service with other departments and how Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are being used to measure impact. Petra Roberts, Assistant Director for Culture, Libraries and Heritage, explained that while some alignment has been organic, the service is working to develop more sophisticated KPIs and impact measurement. She highlighted the introduction of 34 new KPIs and the use of ripple effect mapping to evaluate programmes. Councillor O'Connor also inquired about the big picture ambition for the library service, to which Councillor Mathys, Cabinet Member for Culture, Nightlife, Resilience and Business Standards, responded that the ambition is to co-design future strategies with communities.

The Commission also discussed the challenges faced by the library service, including the need for capital investment in buildings, the impact of extreme heat on library operations, and the importance of maintaining staffing levels within the Engagement and Development Team. Long-term challenges include ensuring financial sustainability, adapting to digital transformation, managing workforce costs, and environmental adaptation of library buildings.

The future strategic direction for Hackney Libraries will focus on operationalising the 'Community Hub' model, creating financial and strategic sustainability, strengthening data-driven performance, focusing on workforce development, and deepening strategic partnerships. The service aims to position libraries as the primary 'front door' for council services, streamlining resident access to support and integrating service delivery.

Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission Work Programme 2026/27

The Commission discussed its work programme for the upcoming municipal year. Tracey Anderson, the Overview and Scrutiny Officer, presented the process for developing the work programme, which includes public engagement feedback. The public engagement for the Skills, Economy and Growth portfolio received 68 responses, with key issues including traffic management, road closures, and Local Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs), waste management, fly-tipping, and street cleanliness, and concerns about antisocial behaviour, drug dealing, and safety.

Councillor Jasmine O'Connor suggested focusing on the pressures on the voluntary and community sector and understanding how local businesses are faring against larger brands. Councillor Izzy Castello-Cortes expressed interest in reviewing the council's consultation processes with residents, particularly in relation to LTNs and road closures. It was noted that the Consultation and Engagement comments from residents would likely be picked up by a scrutiny panel, with Councillor Jasmine O'Connor expected to lead on this.

The Commission was reminded that the Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission will be renamed the Skills, Place & Economy Scrutiny Commission from August 2026, with an expanded remit including community safety and the environment. The draft work programme for 2026/27 was presented as a working document, and members were invited to make suggestions.