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Edinburgh Future Libraries strategy 2024 to 2029

Edinburgh Future Libraries consultation

Edinburgh Libraries are developing a new Future Libraries Strategy that will provide a framework for service delivery and development for public and school libraries over the next five years. This plan will help us adapt to the needs of our city's residents while addressing challenges like evolving public expectations, budget constraints, and technological changes..

You may have already taken part in our engagement phase at the beginning of 2024. This questionnaire is different. It asks specific questions about our draft plan, includes options for changes to opening hours and how we manage our activities and events. We are keen to hear from you even if you participated first time around.

Background information

In December 2023, the Council’s Culture and Communities Committee agreed to develop the new strategy and vision for Edinburgh’s Libraries.  You can  considered by Committee and the agreed amendments. In May and in August 2024, Committee agreed to move forwards with the public consultation. You can read a copy of the considered by Committee and the , and a copy of the and .

Future Libraries Stage Two – Formal Consultation Phase

To help shape the new strategy and inform future proposals for change, it was agreed to carry out an engagement and consultation process to gather views and feedback on service provision. Over 14,00 individuals, groups and organisations provided feedback in our initial engagement activity between 26th January 2024 - 19th April 2024. We have now considered the views and ideas that were gathered through this activity alongside our existing data on service use and knowledge of how the service operates and have used the information to shape our new draft Future Libraries Strategy 2024 – 2029.  The information has also helped to inform the identification of potential options for change to library opening hours and how the service manages events and activities.

We’re now asking you to get involved by telling us what you think of the draft strategy and options for future change to service. We would like to hear your views whether you currently use the service or not and we will do all we can to make it as easy as possible for anyone to have a say.

Your views are essential to inform any future decisions on adoption of the strategy, the goals and any proposed options for change.

How to get involved

  • on the Council’s Consultation Hub.
  • Complete a paper questionnaire and hand it in at your local library. Our library staff can assist those needing help.
  • Look out for further opportunities promoted in libraries, on this webpage, and through social media. 
  • Please contact futurelibraries@edinburgh.gov.uk if you have any questions or if you work with any groups that would prefer to take part in the consultation through workshops or focus groups.

Integrated Impact Assessments

 

Future Libraries documents