Calderdale Council is placing libraries at the heart of local communities with a range of opportunities to connect residents to knowledge, information and skills to enrich their lives.
At the meeting of Calderdale Council’s Cabinet on Monday 12 December, members will consider adopting this new strategy to take libraries forward, allowing them to remain relevant and thrive in the 21st Century.
The Strategy plots a course for Library and Information Services in Calderdale for the next three years and is based around six key objectives:
- Promoting reading, learning and culture;
- Promoting digital access and inclusion;
- Promoting health and wellbeing;
- Promoting skills acquisition and access to employment;
- Developing passionate and innovative staff;
- Delivering services from buildings that are fit for purpose and including other services where possible.
Some of the ways in which these objectives would be delivered include reviewing library materials to ensure a good balance of printed and digital, training staff as dementia friends, looking into new technology linked to the possibility of increasing opening hours, and promoting new volunteering opportunities.
The new Central Library and Archive in Halifax will be the flagship for the service and also provide a modern, digital space for the borough.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Communities, Cllr Susan Press, said:
“Libraries are uniquely placed at the heart of villages and towns across the borough, and this strategy looks at how this position can be used to ensure our libraries are relevant to today’s society.
“Local libraries can often be good access points for other services and offer opportunities for complementary events and activities.
“We want to let people know that libraries are a lot more than books, and in a changing world it’s important they make the best possible use of their resources and provide opportunities for all.”
The strategy will be discussed at the meeting of Calderdale Council’s Cabinet on Monday 12 December at Halifax Town Hall at 6pm.