Library staffing pledge as residents back strategy

Bradford Council has outlined changes it plans to make to its library services

A council has committed to keeping paid staff in its libraries, as it outlined changes to services following feedback from residents.

In April Bradford Council published a libraries strategy, with proposals including measures to encourage more men to use libraries, and providing more reasons for under-served communities to visit the facilities.

More than 900 people responded to a consultation on the strategy, with 77% of respondents in agreement with the council's plans.

A spokesperson for the authority said the proposals did not have immediate financial implications, but "may require continued careful resource allocation and/or further exploration of external funding bids".

Respondents said they wanted more emphasis on access to new and diverse books, quiet study spaces, support for older people and outreach to care homes and schools.

In response, the council said it would "review and refresh our book stock, including eBooks and audiobooks", explore ways to improve quiet spaces and study areas, develop outreach programmes and promote lifelong learning and digital inclusion.

The consultation raised concerns that an increased reliance on volunteers could disadvantage residents in deprived areas, where people were less able to volunteer.

The council pledged to "maintain a core of trained, paid staff in all council-run libraries", using volunteers to "enhance - not replace".

In response to requests for more cultural activities in libraries, the council promised to expand its cultural programme to build on Bradford's City of Culture year.

It also said it would work with schools, colleges and youth services to promote library use and improve marketing and visibility so more people were aware of what libraries offered.

Additionally, libraries would offer digital skills sessions and support for job seekers, the council said.

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