A new Libraries Strategy will be considered at a Public Cabinet meeting today (10 July). 

The strategy was shaped by a nine-week public consultation giving residents, library users and community groups a say on how the borough’s libraries operate.

The strategy sets out how it aims to help people live healthier and happier lives, provide welcoming warm spaces, improve child literacy, provide spaces for creative arts activity and support local people to grow their businesses.

Its key priorities highlighted in the plan are:

• Reading and Literacy
• Culture and Creativity
• Economic and Digital Improvement
• Health and Wellbeing

Councillor Brian Bishop, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, said:

The new strategy will allow our libraries to reach their full potential as key assets for the entire community.

With many so libraries across London and beyond closing, Bexley is committed to utilising these spaces and maximising their benefit to the borough’s residents of all ages. We want our message to be that libraries are not just for books, we want to think beyond books to community groups, classes, places to meet up with people and socialise. Our libraries are some of our most popular buildings, our new strategy will create the opportunity to make the most of what we have.

The strategy will support the Bexley Plan to #MakeBexleyEvenBetter”

The Strategy sets out the direction of travel over the next five years for Bexley Libraries, ensuring that the service is helping residents and businesses.

It plans to ensure these community assets serve as hubs where residents can access the resources, culture and information they need to thrive.

The Council plans to maximise the potential of its libraries through close collaboration with its partners and the community.

You can find out more about the proposed Libraries Strategy and watch the Cabinet Meeting on this link.