The plan is detailed in our Public Library Service Strategy, 'A Modern Library Service for Derbyshire' with the report Adoption of Library Strategy (item 10 on the agenda) to be discussed on Thursday 9 January 2025.
The strategy was first unveiled in draft form in July and while aimed at meeting necessary budget savings, other aims are to reflect changing patterns of library use while ensuring the service remains as accessible, flexible, efficient and cost-effective as possible.
Another main part of the strategy is to ensure that libraries remain strong community hubs which can act as 'front doors' to other council services.
12-week consultation
More than 3,800 Derbyshire residents had their say on the plans during a 12-week consultation launched in August, and their views have been used to shape the final strategy which, if agreed will be implemented over the next 4 years.
All libraries will remain open, but the strategy, if agreed, will see a reduction in opening hours across the library network by an average of 10%, to be implemented from 2025 to 2026.
Opening hours would be localised for each community and would reflect the busiest periods.