The Edinburgh Reporter is having a wee holiday. We hope that perhaps you are too, and that you have a great time for the rest of December. We will be back, renewed and refreshed, at the beginning of January 2012…..we are sure that there will be more Tramadrama and Pandamonium for us to tell you about and photograph for you.
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Our photograph today shows the Central Library, which is hopefully set for renovation by the council in 2012. But there is a draft strategy which you still have time to comment on in December and January 2012.
Edinburgh Libraries’ mantra is ‘Better Libraries, Better Lives’ and this message is central to a new draft strategy for the service approved for public consultation in November.
The Library and Information Service plays a vital role providing free access to a range of reading, media, IT and information services to all citizens from babies to the oldest in our communities.
Services are delivered in a variety of ways to meet customers’ needs. These include 27 Community Libraries, Central Library, the Virtual Library, Prison Library, Mobile Library and Services to Hospitals and Care Homes.
The Next Generation Library and Information Service Strategy presents a model to take the service forward into the 21st century. It presents a vision of “Better Libraries, Better Lives”, a Library and Information Service built on excellence in customer services, inspiring customers and reinforcing strong community connections.
Councillor Deidre Brock, Culture and Leisure Convener, said: “Obviously all local authorities are having to make big savings just now, and we are no exception. But unlike some areas, we have not closed, and WILL NOT close any of our libraries – on the contrary, we’re opening more, integrating library services within community facilities to give greater flexibility and make best use of resources. The first of these innovative ‘hubs’, the Drumbrae Library Hub [pictured], is due to open early in 2012, while the beautifully refurbished and modernised Morningside Library is preparing to welcome the community back in just a few weeks’ time.
“In Edinburgh we are shaping our library service based on customer feedback, usage patterns and discussions with Libraries staff. As we move forward, we’re looking to gauge the public’s views on our draft strategy for libraries. We invite everyone to tell us what they think – your feedback is invaluable in helping us continue to improve this vital service for the City.”
It’s never been easier to access library services in Scotland’s Capital. The award-winning virtual library is thriving and has just been tipped for yet another top accolade.
A report on the Next Generation Library Strategy was approved by the Council’s Culture and Leisure Committee. The consultation will be carried out in December 2011 and January 2012.
