The Community, Cultural and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee met to discuss the future of Lancashire's libraries and the council's workforce. Key decisions included the withdrawal from the Libraries of Sanctuary designation and a commitment to further explore commercial opportunities within libraries. The committee also reviewed a comprehensive update on the council's workforce, highlighting ongoing challenges and future priorities, particularly in light of potential local government reorganisation.

Libraries as Community Hubs

The committee discussed the current provision and future direction of Lancashire's library service. Councillor Salter emphasised the pride Lancashire takes in its libraries, describing them as more than just places to borrow books, but as vital community assets that enrich local communities and drive civic pride. The service comprises 64 static library branches, a mobile library service with five vehicles, and 565 public computers offering free internet access. Digital resources, including e-books and audiobooks via services like BorrowBox, are also available.

A key decision made was the withdrawal from the Libraries of Sanctuary designation. This was explained as a political decision, with the council opting to focus on providing data-driven services rather than maintaining specific designations. Concerns were raised about the accessibility of libraries for individuals with mobility issues, and the need for improved promotion of services was highlighted.

Discussions also touched upon the development of the 65th library at Queen Street Mill, with an update on its progress being sought. The role of Friends of Libraries groups was acknowledged, with a question raised about their potential to incorporate local history groups. The committee also explored the use of public computers, noting that while significant investment had been made, demand needed to be carefully monitored.

The future strategy for libraries, set to be renewed for 2026-2028, aims to ensure libraries remain fit-for-purpose, innovative, and embedded within communities. A particular focus will be on addressing barriers to use, such as a lack of awareness of available services, and increasing marketing and promotion. The National Year of Reading in 2026 was identified as a significant opportunity to engage new audiences and address declining literacy levels. The potential for commercialisation within libraries was also discussed, with a new director of commercialisation being appointed to explore opportunities for income generation and cost recovery.

The committee also noted the operational model of The Harris library in Preston, which is run by Preston City Council, and the potential implications if Preston City Council were to cease operating the library.

Workforce Update Report

The committee received an update on the council's workforce, highlighting demographic trends, current challenges, and future priorities. The report noted that public sector employment, particularly in local government, remains under pressure nationally, with Lancashire County Council's workforce being predominantly female with a median age of 48. The ethnic profile is largely White, underscoring the need for continued efforts to improve data recording and diversity.

Key challenges identified include balancing major organisational priorities such as the Improvement Plan, efficiency savings, and Local Government Review (LGR). Disruption from organisational redesign and the uncertainty surrounding LGR were also highlighted as significant factors. The report also noted external labour market pressures, including recruitment and retention difficulties, and rising pay demands.

The September 2025 staff survey indicated a reduced response rate and a drop in the employee net promoter score. While staff praised teamwork, supportive management, and flexible working, priorities for improvement included stronger communication during change, fairer pay, more visible leadership, and clearer career pathways. The council is developing its listening framework to better capture staff voice, including the introduction of a Staff Panel and the refresh of the Change Influencer Network.

The council's Apprenticeship Programme continues to perform well, with a high retention rate. New initiatives include the Growth and Skills Levy, T Levels placements, and a Modern Work Experience Offer. The LGA Leadership Graduates programme is also bringing fresh perspectives and delivering high-quality projects.

Recruitment and retention efforts are focused on high-needs areas like Accessible Transport, SEND, and Social Care, utilising development roles and centralised recruitment. Senior leadership recruitment presents distinct challenges due to the complexity of roles and the narrowing external candidate pool.

Employee relations activity has increased, driven by more robust absence controls and a rise in disciplinary and grievance cases, particularly involving senior employees. This has placed additional pressure on managerial capacity and HR resources. The council is expanding flexible workforce approaches and developing clear career pathways to attract and retain staff. A mandated training programme for all people managers, Leading Lancashire, has been launched to strengthen leadership capability.

The council is preparing for the Employment Rights Act 2025, which will introduce significant reforms to employment law. This includes reviewing policies, budgeting for potential cost increases, and ensuring operational readiness. A review of hybrid working arrangements is also underway to develop a clear and consistent framework. The council has also approved a Fairness, Equality, and Inclusion Workforce Framework.

Looking ahead, the council's People Strategy has made progress in strengthening leadership, workforce capability, engagement, and inclusion. The next two years will be critical in preparing for Local Government Reorganisation, with a focus on workforce stability, leadership capability, policy alignment, and change readiness.

Community, Cultural and Corporate Services Scrutiny Committee Work Programme 2025/26

The committee reviewed and confirmed its work programme for the 2025/26 municipal year. Key items scheduled for future meetings include discussions on Property Strategy and Disposal of Buildings, the Farington Cricket Facility, and Domestic Violence. The committee also reviewed responses to recommendations made at previous meetings concerning the Transformation Portfolio and the Digital Strategy. An in-year request to add the Lancashire County Council Improvement Plan 2025–2027 to the work programme was agreed for the meeting on 30 April 2026. The committee also noted that the suitability of the Farington Cricket Facility item being considered by this committee, or the Environment, Economic Growth and Transport Scrutiny Committee, would be confirmed by officers.