Future of Caerphilly Library Services under review

Last year the authority consulted on a strategic vision for libraries and it now wants to move forward to consult on the creation of a more sustainable and resilient service.

On Thursday 16th January, the council’s Cabinet will consider whether to proceed to consultation on proposals which could see the creation of improved central library ‘hubs’ across our town centres. This would then see other smaller community library sites repurposed or delivered in a different way in future.

Unfortunately, this could also mean that some sites may close if alternative arrangements cannot be agreed.

Cllr Carol Andrews, Cabinet member for Education said, “We very much value our library service, but the unprecedented financial pressures facing us over the coming years means that we must act now to secure a sustainable library model which is fit for the future.”

We believe the concept of developing fewer, but enhanced town centre library hubs will better meet the changing needs of our communities. The success of our pilot Community Hub model at Rhymney Library demonstrates the benefits that this approach can deliver for local people and the local economy.

It is important to note that no decisions have been made to date and, if the consultation is agreed, it is essential that as many people as possible engage and provide feedback to help us shape the way we deliver our library service in future.”

Two key changes are contained in the Cabinet report, following feedback received last year during the initial consultation on the strategic vision:

• The proposal to close Newbridge Library is to be withdrawn
• Plans to close New Tredegar Library to be put on hold for 3 years followed by a review.
• If agreed, the consultation would run for a period of 7 weeks, starting on the 22 January and will close on 12 March.

The details of the Cabinet report and supporting information can be found on the CCBC website by clicking here – https://democracy.caerphilly.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=128&MId=14788&LLL=0