Thank you to everyone who attended the AGM where we discussed the new draft library strategy and plans for improving the library. All your suggestions relating to these have been included in the AGM minutes.
The new library strategy
The draft Library Strategy 2022-2027 describes Shropshire Library Service plans for libraries across Shropshire over the next five years
We are pleased the draft strategy has abandoned the previous inequitable tier system where communities in market towns such as Church Stretton were expected to subsidise their library if it were to remain open.
The new library strategy seeks to retain all libraries across Shropshire and develop additional services within them to support the local community.
Finances could become an issue
However, Shropshire Council’s finances are insecure following years of reductions in central government support which have drained the local authority’s reserves. This means some libraries could become at risk of closure.
We believe that the best way to help secure Church Stretton Library’s long-term future is to meet the new overall strategic priorities of the Shropshire Library Service. We can do this by:
- Raising footfall – encouraging more people to use Church Stretton Library
- Developing additional services within our library
Please respond to this consultation
We would encourage all residents to respond to this consultation, which includes questions about:
- Any activities or services you would like to see offered at your local library
- Your suggestions for improvements to new technology within the library
- How Church Stretton library makes a difference to you.
You can respond to the consultation here.
The consultation runs until the 3rd August 2022.
NB We have included people’s suggestions made at the AGM in our response to the consultation – Friends response to Library Strategy consultation.