The Skills, Economy and Growth Scrutiny Commission met on Monday 13 July 2026 to discuss the progress of Hackney's Library Service Strategy and to begin planning the Commission's work programme for the upcoming municipal year. Key decisions included noting the progress of the library strategy, which has seen libraries evolve into community hubs, and identifying key areas of public concern for future scrutiny, such as traffic management and waste services.

Library Strategy 2022-2026 Update

The Commission reviewed the implementation and outcomes of the Libraries Strategy 2022-2026, which has seen Hackney's libraries transform into community hubs. Petra Roberts, Assistant Director for Culture, Libraries and Heritage, and Emma Winch, Head of Cultural Transformation, presented the findings.

Key achievements highlighted include:

• Increased Engagement: Overall footfall saw a slight decrease of 5% in 2025/26, largely due to the temporary closure of Hackney Central Library. However, excluding this closure, footfall is rising across the borough, with significant increases at Homerton, Hackney Central, and Woodberry Down libraries. Digital engagement has also surged, with newsletter subscriptions and website traffic increasing significantly.
• Staff Satisfaction: The Fit for the Future workforce restructure in 2023 has led to a 13% increase in staff engagement and a 70% reduction in sickness rates.
• Community Hub Model: Libraries are increasingly functioning as one-stop shops and community hubs, offering a range of services beyond book lending. This includes digital inclusion support, health and wellbeing programmes, and acting as a front door to council services.
• User Satisfaction: Customer satisfaction remains exceptionally high, with 97-99% approval for library staff, accessibility, and programmes. Google Reviews have also seen a 30% year-on-year increase in five-star ratings.
• Capital Investment: Approximately £6 million in capital investment has been used to upgrade key library sites, including Hackney Central Library, leading to a 57% increase in commercial income from room hires and services.
• Stoke Newington Library Refurbishment: Councillor Siobhan MacMahon enquired about the progress of the Stoke Newington Library refurbishment. It was reported that external repairs are nearing completion, with ongoing work on the roof structure. The building's condition is proving to be worse than initially anticipated, leading to a revised timeline for internal refurbishment. A public update on the renewed timescale is expected in the autumn.
• Cooling Spaces: In response to a question from Councillor Charlene Concepcion regarding the closure of Shoreditch Library during extreme heat, it was explained that the decision was made due to staff welfare concerns. While Shoreditch Library is no longer designated as a cool space, Hackney Central and Homerton libraries have mechanical cooling systems. The issue of inadequate cooling in libraries nationally was highlighted as a significant challenge.
• Community Transport: Councillor Izzy Castello-Cortes asked about community transport provisions to maximise access to library services. It was noted that while Hackney Community Transport used to assist, current funding limitations prevent direct provision. However, the library service does offer a community library service that goes out to residents.
• Future of Libraries: The Commission discussed the future role of libraries in an increasingly digital age. The consensus was that libraries will continue to be vital as spaces for community gathering, study, and access to resources, particularly for young people seeking study space and older residents seeking connection.

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

The Commission began planning its work programme for the 2026/27 municipal year. Following a public engagement exercise, 68 responses were received that specifically related to the Skills, Economy and Growth portfolio. The most frequent issues raised by residents include:

• Traffic Management, Road Closures, and Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs): Concerns were raised about increased gridlock, longer commute times, and traffic displacement onto side streets.
• Waste Management, Fly-Tipping, and Street Cleanliness: Residents expressed dissatisfaction with bin collection frequency, litter, and illegal dumping.
• Cycling, E-bikes, and E-scooters: Safety risks posed by cyclists on pavements and the speed of e-bikes and e-scooters were highlighted.
• Antisocial Behaviour, Drug Dealing, and Safety: Persistent issues with public disorder and safety concerns in specific areas were reported.
• Parks and Green Spaces: Feedback focused on maintenance, commercial use, and the need for better facilities.
• Business Support and Economic Inequality: Concerns were raised about the impact of new housing developments on local services and the rights of short-term rentals contributing to rent inflation.
• Public Facility Management: Dissatisfaction was expressed regarding the management of leisure centres and swimming pools.
• Blue Badge Abuse: The illegal use of blue badges to bypass parking and traffic restrictions was noted.
• Governance and Consultation: A recurring sentiment was the feeling of residents being excluded from decision-making processes, with a lack of formal public consultation on significant changes.
• Council Housing Construction: Specific calls were made for the council to prioritise the construction of new, affordable council housing.
• Playground Facilities: Residents requested dedicated play areas for older children, improved lighting, and the reopening of closed playgrounds.

Councillor Jasmine O'Connor suggested scrutinising the pressures on the voluntary and community sector and understanding how local businesses are faring against larger brands. Councillor Izzy Castello-Cortes proposed reviewing the council's communication and consultation processes with residents, particularly concerning LTNs and road closures. The Commission noted that the issue of governance and consultation would likely be picked up by the Scrutiny Panel.

The Commission's remit is set to be renamed the Skills, Place & Economy Scrutiny Commission from August 2026, with an expanded focus on community safety and the environment. The draft work programme for 2026/27 was presented, and members were invited to make suggestions.