More than 1,700 people respond to library consultation

More than 1,700 people have already had their say in Suffolk County Council’s consultation to Shape the Future of library services in Suffolk.
Published: 04 Dec 2023

The consultation, which launched on Monday 30 October has so far had 1,725 responses.

Suffolk County Council’s contract with Suffolk’s Libraries Industrial and Provident Society (IPS) Limited, the independent charity that runs the library service, comes to an end on 31 May 2025, with a new contract set to begin in June 2025. The Council is therefore seeking views from the public about what is important to them, ahead of awarding the new contract.

The consultation is made up of two parts. Part one gives residents an opportunity to tell the council what they value in their library service and what they would like to see more of in the future. Part two seeks views on how Library Outreach services could be run in the future.

The council is keen to hear from both those who currently use library services and those who do not, to better understand the needs across the county. This feedback will help to inform the requirements for the future contract.

I’m pleased that the consultation has had a good number of responses so far - this demonstrates the integral role which libraries play within their communities. Since the current contract began 12 years ago, the needs of local people have changed. That is why it is important to gather feedback ahead of awarding the new contract next year. The more responses we receive, the better our understanding will be of the current needs in Suffolk – don’t miss your chance to add your voice. Whether you are a current library user or not, we want to hear from you.
Cllr Bobby Bennett, Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities
Cllr Bobby Bennett, Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities

Residents can have their say by visiting www.suffolk.gov.uk/LibraryConsultation before Friday 26 January 2024.

Easy-read and translated versions are available at the above website.

Alternative formats of the consultation are available on request, please email: Libraries.consultation@suffolk.gov.uk

Those who cannot access the consultation online can request a printed copy or assistance with completing the survey by calling 0345 603 1842.