Wirral Libraries Phase 1

We Asked

We asked residents to provide their views on Library services in Wirral to help develop a Library Strategy for the next five years. The aim is to offer a sustainable library service that meets the needs of the community both now, and for future generations.

We asked what library services were most important – whether that be reading materials, joining reading groups, accessing IT facilities, and doing online research or taking part in arts and crafts, events, and support groups. We also wanted to know what we could offer more of and what we could do differently so the library you use the most, can offer the services you need. There was also the opportunity to provide a view on who should run the library and if a community managed library is something you would like to be involved with.

You Said

There were 1,562 responses to the survey, this provided a wealth of information in key areas including the library service, the online library, new ideas for libraries and community involvement in library operations. This information was used to support the development of the new strategy.

For more information about the consultation and to view the Consultation report click here.

We Did

The consultation feedback directly influenced the development of a new emerging Library Strategy, which includes options for a new operating model for Wirral Libraries. This information including the consultation report was presented to the Tourism, Communities, Culture and Leisure Committee on 18 January 2022. The committee agreed for this new proposed model to undergo further public consultation and engagement with service users, staff, key stakeholders, and their representatives. This second phase of public consultation will go live in February 2022.