Agenda item

The Executive Member for Equalities, Culture and Inclusion presented the Q1 performance report for Libraries and Culture.

The report covered what was managed to happen by adding a few more indicators to bring more detail about how the libraries are performing. There was a trend upwards in terms of visits to libraries, getting back to where they were before COVID. There was also the indicator now for online issues, which was also doing well. There were interesting patterns where the usage dipped during the summer when everyone is enjoying the outdoors and then went back up during the winter when everyone is trying to stay indoors and find things to do.

One area for attention was the indicator for the number of issues made versus the number of library visits. It showed that there were fewer issues compared to the number of people visiting the libraries throughout the year. It indicates that libraries are not just for checking out books or DVDs but also for various activities, sitting down, reading, using computers. They served as important community spaces and warmer places outside of people's homes, where they can come and use free Wi-Fi and computers.

The report provided an overview of the types of events and activities that have taken place in the libraries this quarter, catering to a range of ages and celebratory moments. Libraries are being used by various council directorates for their work, such as consultations for the Sobel Centre, external partners and organisations also use library spaces for their activities, like Age UK.

There's room for improvement. By breaking down how the library spaces are being used, it can be identified where they are underutilised and why. It helps to figure out how to improve or use the space differently.

The committee discussed the positive impact of scraping library fines in encouraging more people to utilise libraries and borrow books, DVDs and other things available. Another significant topic was the Summer Reading Challenge, a program designed to encourage children and parents to read. The challenge involved children reading a series of books and receiving certificates and medals upon completion.

Councillors inquired about the progress of allowing card payments within libraries. It was noted that offering both cash and card payment options is essential to accommodate the diverse preferences of library users.

The "Winter Warmers" program was also discussed, which collaborates with partners like Age UK and other organisations to support vulnerable groups during the winter months. The intention is to extend this initiative across all libraries, with a focus on promoting multigenerational support and community engagement.

Social prescribing, a concept involving working with local doctors' surgeries to engage in social prescribing and recommend library activities to combat issues like loneliness. This approach could help connect libraries with groups not regularly engaged, particularly among older individuals. The councillors discussed potential gaps in outreach and efforts to address them. The role of libraries was recognised as extending beyond offering books. Libraries provide services such as adult learning, archives, and support for residents in need.

RESOLVED:

That the report was noted by the committee