Have your say on future of Bucks Libraries

Buckinghamshire Council are looking for your opinions as they re-shape library services in the county, and ensure staff are available when you want them.

Buckinghamshire Council must save a total of £95.3 million over the next three years, with £41.3million to be saved in the current financial year (2024/25). The library service must make savings of £555,000 by April 2026.

Buckinghamshire libraries have transformed over recent years and offer a wide range of services and activities. A new vision and strategy for Buckinghamshire Libraries was agreed in 2023. The council's vision is to provide welcoming and safe spaces for everyone to access reading, culture and the information and services they need to learn, discover, imagine, and thrive.

To reduce costs and help ensure the library service remains resilient and sustainable, Cabinet agreed on 18 June 2024 to implement ‘Library Flex’ subject to consultation.

Library Flex means ensuring staff are available at the times of greatest customer need and using self-operated technology to provide access to library services at quieter times.

This technology is already in use in 45 local authorities across England. It allows customers to use their membership card to access libraries during set times when staff are not present. During these times you can:

• take out and return books
• use wi-fi, public computers, loanable tablets and printers
• access a space for study, reading or socialising
• access the Council Access Point phone to get help with council enquiries such as council tax, benefits, waste and recycling

To do this, you will need to be at least 16 years old and to have completed an induction programme. Children will be able to use Library Flex when accompanied by a registered adult.

The Council are planning to introduce Library Flex in the following libraries:

• Amersham
• Aylesbury
• Beaconsfield
• Buckingham
• Chesham
• Hazlemere
• Marlow
• Princes Risborough

To have your say on the issue, complete the survey using this link https://yourvoicebucks.citizenspace.com/culture-sports-and-leisure/library-flex/ (EXTERNAL SITE)

Partners, community groups and organisations

Library Flex will allow  better use of buildings with more activities and services taking place. It will also provide opportunities for room hire for community groups outside of our current opening hours.

The council want to hear from partners, community groups, volunteers and organisations that have an interest using library spaces outside of staffed times.