Have your say on the future of Dorset Council’s libraries before consultation closes.
Residents who borrow books, use library rooms, sing during rhyme time, and those who are not familiar with Dorset Council’s library services, only have a few weeks left to shape their future.
There have been significant changes to public behaviour and technology since we last looked at the library strategy, over 10 years ago. This was most prominent during the pandemic when libraries needed to adapt quickly to continue to provide highly valued services – albeit in a different way. With many events being held online, they racked up an impressive number of views, more than 112,000.
Online surveys seek views on the new aims for the service and how they will be achieved. This includes questions on suggested opening hours, digital access, supporting learning, and providing space for enterprise and community spaces.
Councillor Laura Beddow, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Communities and Customer Services, said: “We must now look to the future of our library service, and how they can continue to deliver services, meeting the needs of our communities over the next ten years.
“Our draft strategy sets out how will do this through our mission to inspire, connect and enable our communities, we now need your help to refine the draft strategy. I encourage everyone to have their say, your views really will shape the future of our libraries”.
Phase one Let’s Talk Libraries took place from October 2021- January 2022 and was an informal conversation with communities, to understand what they value about the library service, and how it could develop and become relevant to non-library users.
Now in the second phase of consultation, communities are being asked for their views on the draft strategy, to help prioritise and explore what the library service could look like in their community.
In addition to the main survey, there is a dedicated children’s survey for ages 5-15 years, this can be completed on behalf of children who you care for. To find all our surveys head to: www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/lets-talk-libraries
Support is also available via customer services where an officer can help to fill in the survey over the phone. Call 01305 221 000.
Those who need paper copies of the survey can access these by visiting their local library.
The survey will close on 22 December 2022.
Just to say that I think the library is the one service that is good for all ages and not just for books but for computers too. The service is great for the town and helping older people with computers. I came in with my ipad on which I had written my life for my children and grandchildren and your assistant helped me put it all in the right order and printed it so I could create a little book as I had no idea how to do that. The staff are very helpful and give time to you.
I think a lot of older people would love to understand their way around their own computers /iPads better and what all the jargon means, and a simple course on that technology would be great! Even if they pick up a few extra tips.