Don’t miss our pop-up events to give your views on library and archive review

It is your opportunity to have your say on the future of our libraries and archive service, with the consultation lasting until Wednesday July 9.

The Phase One consultation focused on building a better understanding of what our communities see as important, how people use library and archives services, and their views on future opportunities.

Its findings showed that the libraries and archives service, including the home and online library functions, are important for many residents, with access to traditional uses, such as borrowing books, valued. You can read the full results here: -Library-and-Archives-Review-Phase-1-Cabinet-Report.pdf  

The principle of developing library hubs – bringing together services to create vibrant and diverse spaces with something for everyone - was also broadly supported in the Phase One consultation.

As a result, people are now being asked for their views on options, all at an early stage, to develop the library service alongside other services in Grimsby and Cleethorpes to include community spaces where all ages feel welcome.

Meanwhile in Waltham, the option of a community library model is being explored. This would ensure continued access to valued services, such as borrowing books alongside other community uses.

Future proposed changes would be subject to viable business cases and the Council’s decision-making process.

The Phase Two consultation does not include Immingham Library as no change to the current location is being considered. The home library and online library service will also remain unchanged.

To access the survey go to Have your say | NELC You can also fill in a paper copy of the consultation at any one of the libraries or archive service, where you can hand it back into any one of the settings.

If you are struggling to access this survey online then visit any one of our pop-up sessions where we can support you in completing the survey or to pick up a paper copy:

• Immingham Civic Centre (foyer), Pelham Road – Wednesday 07 May, 2pm to 5pm

• Freeman Street Market, Freeman Street – Friday 09 May, 10am to 1pm

• Cleethorpes Leisure Centre (foyer), Kingsway Road – Monday 19 May, 4pm to 7pm

• Grimsby Town Hall, Bremerhaven Room, Town Hall Square – Monday 02 June, 2pm to 5pm

• Waltham Parish Council Office, Kirkgate Car Park -  Wednesday 18 June, 10am to 12pm and 6pm to 7pm

We will also be holding several focus groups across local settings to hear from residents directly, you can register your interest to these by entering your details at the end of the survey. The Research and Engagement Team will also be visiting community groups and library groups so users can feedback on the review.

If any of the focus group times are not suitable for you, please get in touch at consultation@nelincs.gov.uk to feedback in a different way. Alternatively, you can call 01472 313131 or return feedback by post to: Municipal Offices, Town Hall Square, Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, DN31 1HU.

This latest consultation has no bearing on, or relevance to, the current temporary closure of the Grimsby Central Library building. As reported, it has closed following a water leak, which risked disturbing asbestos present in the building. Books and local history collections are now being removed for safe keeping as work continues to plan asbestos removal.