Bedford Borough Council is asking the public for its views on a new Library Strategy, including a £4.5m investment to modernise Bedford Central Library.
The proposal is part of wider plans for regeneration within Bedford town centre.
Bedford Borough Council says it has identified up to £4.5 million of Local Regeneration Fund (LRF) grant funding that could be used to fund the future development of Bedford Central Library, subject to meeting the relevant government funding requirements.
The public consultation will help the council understand the future priorities for library services and library users and features three options for the development of the library in Harpur Square.
The proposals include:
- Improved accessibility, greater visibility and enhanced facilities for children and families
- More flexible spaces for learning, community activities and digital inclusion
- Ideas for services and facilities that people would most like to see in a future Central Library
The Council is keen to hear from everyone who lives, works, studies or uses library services in Bedford Borough.
Consultation feedback will help inform future recommendations and decisions.
“More than places to borrow books”
Cllr John Wheeler (Conservative, Wootton and Kempston Rural ward), portfolio holder for customer experience (including leisure, recreation and culture), said: “Modern libraries are much more than places to borrow books.
“They support reading and literacy, promote digital access for everyone, provide safe spaces for study and learning, celebrate local culture, encourage creativity, promote health and wellbeing, support families and children, and bring communities together.
“We want libraries to remain at the heart of our communities – inspiring reading, supporting learning, promoting wellbeing and connecting people with opportunities.
“We are consulting on both our draft Library Strategy and options for the future development of Bedford Central Library because we want local people to help shape the future direction of the service.
“No decisions have been made. We want to hear from as many residents, library users and stakeholders as possible before any future recommendations are considered.”
Drop-in sessions are being held in all of the Borough’s libraries to enable residents and library users to ask questions relating to the proposal and outline any concerns.
You can find all the consulation information here, including the draft Library Strategy and Frequently Asked Questions before completing the survey.
Paper copies of the survey are also available in libraries and other Council locations.
The consultation runs until midday on Monday, 2 November. Find out more at bedford.gov.uk/LibraryConsultation.
