Have your say on the future of libraries

25 February 2011

Libraries NI is encouraging individuals to participate in the Northern Ireland-wide public consultation exercise which started on the 10th January.

The consultation process gives people an opportunity to respond to the proposals arising from the second stage of the Strategic Review of public library provision throughout Northern Ireland. In the second stage, 77 libraries across Northern Ireland were analysed in terms of fitness for purpose, potential to deliver library services in the 21st century, location and sustainability.

The review found that the majority of libraries are well-used and sustainable into the future, although some will require development and investment to improve facilities and in one case we are proposing to combine two libraries into one bigger facility, with the proposed clustering of services in Armagh City. Ten libraries have been judged potentially unsustainable; these are Carnlough, Draperstown, Fintona, Gilford, Greystone, Kells and Connor, Killyleagh, Moneymore, Moy and Richhill.

Libraries NI is inviting users of those libraries affected to call into their local library and have their say. Questionnaires can be obtained at any of the libraries named or an electronic questionnaire can be completed through library computers or by visiting the Libraries NI website www.librariesni.org.uk

The public consultation will run for a 12 week period until Friday 8th April 2011 and questionnaires must be completed during this time. In addition, public meetings are being held in a number of locations starting on 28th February 2011. View the full list of public consultation meetings.