Issue - meetings

The Committee considered a report of the Director of Adults and Communities giving an update on community managed libraries.  A copy of the report, marked “Agenda Item 10”, is filed with these minutes.

In introducing the item, the Cabinet Lead Member drew members’ attention to the positive progress that had been made, along with the work to be undertaken with the five libraries which had not yet transferred to community management.  Members were informed that since writing the report, officers had been advised that the indicative costs provided by the print supplier up until 2019 would be subject to change, and therefore could influence the advice that would be given to local groups.

Arising from a discussion, the following points were noted:

·         In response to a query around the contingency fund of £150,000 to support groups with significant repairs to transferred buildings, it was reported that, from the first calls for bids, approximately £45,000 had been claimed by five groups.  This had been for items such as replacement heating systems and funding to deal with health and safety issues.  The amount of individual bids had not exceeded £10,000;

·         Running costs would be met by the local authority for the first two years, after which support would be tapered off at a rate of 20% per annum.  Concern was raised around the risks associated with this, and it was stated that the Council would support local groups’ bids for funding wherever possible and provide advice and guidance on making libraries sustainable.

RESOLVED

(a)  That the Adults and Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee notes the progress made with libraries that have transferred to community management;

(b)  That the progress with Braunstone Town, Desford, Kirby Muxloe, Ibstock and Mountsorrel be noted.