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RESOLVED: that Cabinet approved
the adoption of the draft strategy for the library service subject
to public and stakeholder consultation, to be reported back through
the portfolio holder, with any amendments, prior to finalisation
and formal adoption.
 
REASONS RESOLVED:
·        
The proposed strategy will provide a framework
against which the Library Service can deliver and maximise its role
in the delivery of WNC corporate priorities.
·        
The proposed strategy will support the established
model of community managed libraries enabling the Council to
deliver vital services and support at a local level from community
library venues.
 
ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS:
The accompanying Library
Service Strategy 2023-2027 has been designed to address the
corporate priorities of West Northamptonshire Council. The 18
library venues are well located at the heart of local communities
and provide vital local access to services and support for
residents.
 
The strategy uses the 6
corporate priorities as a framework and demonstrates how the
Library Service delivers against the priorities with particular
emphasis on Improved Life Chances, Thriving Towns and Villages and
Economic Growth.
 
Libraries’ unique
position of being neutral, safe, trusted, and non-judgemental
spaces also enables them to support the Integrated Care
Northamptonshire Strategy “Live your best life”
ambitions. As community hubs of knowledge, information and
resources libraries act as conduits and connectors, providing
information and opportunities to improve wellbeing, and in
particular mental health. This includes opportunities for self-help
as well as community level social prescribing and the promotion of
key Public Health messages and campaigns to a wide
audience.
 
The statutory function of the
library services is preserved and maintained through delivery of
the Libraries Connected Public Library Universal Offers. These
focus on Reading and literacy, Health and wellbeing, Culture and
Creativity and Information and Digital.