Looking to the future of Solihull's libraries

MEMBERS of the public will be asked about the future shape of library services in Solihull this spring.
In recent years, the borough council has grappled with the question of how best to equip its libraries for the digital age.
Emphasis has been placed on transforming the three “flagship” centres – of which Chelmsley Wood is one – into multi-purpose community hubs.
Arguably a greater challenge has been presented by the smaller branch libraries, where visitor numbers have dwindled and opening hours reduced as part of successive cost-cutting initiatives.
In response the council has sought to devise new operating models and a report published last month confirmed that a wide-reaching consultation is scheduled to take place in the spring.
During this process, library users will be asked what they think the priorities should be.
Depending on their responses, options to have libraries open for longer in the evenings and on Sundays may be considered.
The council has also hailed the success of a partnership which allowed Marston Green Library to open for longer and it is likely the authority will look to forge more deals with community groups and charities.
Other attempts to reach new deals have been less successful however, a project that would have seen Castle Bromwich Library join forces with Age UK fell through due to funding problems.
Another option to prevent hours being cut still further is to take on a greater number of unpaid volunteers and this is something that the council is currently examining.