From August to October 2009, we launched our biggest ever library consultation, asking for your help to shape the future of your local library service.
Does the library service we provide give you what you want? Would you like to:
- listen to music, buy a coffee and surf the web?
- take your toddler for storytelling?
- get help with homework?
- use online services at home?
Do you use the services provided by libraries to do these things?
Who took part
We asked for all your views, whether you've never joined or are a regular user.
We wanted to know what matters to you most, and what you think is right for your local community. We also asked you to tell us if you think we haven't yet got it right.
Background information
For information about the services we provide, see our section:
How you took part
This survey closed on 30 October 2009.
- 1,266 people completed our questionnaire online or at their local library.
- 150 people gave their views on film in the Video Diary Room.
We would like to thank everyone who took part and contributed views.
What you told us
The survey provided useful information about suggested areas for improvement. These include:
- improve the layout, design or location of some libraries
- improve the choice of stock
- provide more information about the services we offer
- run more events in libraries – in particular author events were requested
- review and improve opening hours.
What happened as a result of this consultation
The following decisions have been made in the light of the responses we received.
- We will focus on ‘reader development' – providing you with more help choosing books, improving the way we present and display stock, and also improve the stock itself.
- We will improve our marketing to ensure customers are aware of the range of services we offer.
- We will run more events in libraries.
- We will review opening hours.
We will also let you know what steps are being taken to make any changes.
Actions taken
Work is already underway to upgrade some of our library buildings. We will also improve the look and feel inside our libraries, making the entrance areas more welcoming with clear floorplans and displays.
Earlier in 2009, over £12m was allocated to build new libraries in Hastings, Newhaven and Seaford – a record amount of funding for libraries in the county. Progress is being made on all these projects.
In January 2010, the County Council and the Wadhurst Hall and Field Committee agreed to move Wadhurst Library into the former social club. The new library opened in July 2010, offering library users better facilities, extended opening hours and more library stock.
In January 2011, Rye Library moved to larger premises in the High Street. This joint project between East Sussex County Council and Rother District Council offers more services to local people.
For details about how we are developing library services, read our strategies and plans:
Enquiries
If you have any questions about this survey, please contact:
Rhona Drever, Assistant Head of Libraries – Strategy and Performance
Phone: 01273 481329
Email: rhona.drever@eastsussex.gov.uk
East Sussex County Council