Following changes made to Croydon’s library service in 2022, the council has been listening to residents and staff who have said that despite best efforts, the service model isn’t working – that it doesn’t provide the opening hours needed or enough of the services that residents want and need.
The council have been working with Activist Group, specialists in research and advice, to review the library service and to develop recommendations for change. They have been looking at how better use can be made of the existing resources to meet the needs of Croydon’s residents. This will mean changes, as summarised below:
- Six 'library hubs' (Central, Ashburton, Thornton Heath, Norbury, Selsdon and Coulsdon) are proposed to be open five to six days a week, including Saturdays, and will deliver an extensive offer of books, wifi, PCs, study spaces and events. These libraries have all proved to be well-used, accessible buildings that meet local needs. Future investment in these sites is recommended to improve the facilities and extend the opening times and services available.
- To make the improvements proposed, four library buildings; Bradmore Green, Broad Green, Sanderstead, and Shirley are proposed to be closed. This proposal is based on analysis of the buildings including visitor numbers, size and condition of the buildings, the size and needs of the communities they serve and running costs.
- The research also found that three areas — New Addington, Purley and South Norwood — need library services, but low visitor numbers suggest that the current set-up isn’t working. The council is proposing to introduce 'community hubs' in these areas, where a library would be available alongside other services such as family and adult education services and community partnerships.
I am sure that many people will have views on these proposals and I would urge you to respond to the public consultation which is now open and remains so till 19th April: https://www.getinvolved.croydon.gov.uk/libraries-services-consultation
