Derby libraries could be operated by a Trust

Published: 25 July 2023

The city’s community libraries are to stay open and could be run by a voluntary organisation under new proposals to come before Cabinet next month.

Following the recent election, the new Labour-led administration is committed to considering long-term options for a comprehensive and sustainable library service.

The ambition is to create a new model for Derby, learning from the proven success of other library services delivered in the UK, such as Suffolk Libraries and Explore York. 

Two new options for delivering library services in Derby are being recommended to Cabinet, which meets on 2 August. Both propose a version of a Public Service Mutual (PSM) model, which is a separate organisation that continues to provide public services. 

Typically, PSMs have a degree of employee ownership, influence or control in the way the organisation is run. Current library staff could transfer to the new organisation if the city's five statutory libraries are included in the plans.

The recommended proposal is for the Council to establish a new organisation or integrate within an existing Trust.  

Depending on how it is set up, an organisation separate from the Council could be eligible for grants not available to an in-house council service and benefit from alternative funding, such as sponsorship and donations. 

Many other options have been explored, including keeping the library service in-house, running it as a joint service with other councils, or closing the non-statutory community libraries. 

If plans are approved by Cabinet, a full business case will be developed, alongside an implementation plan.

Councillor Baggy Shanker, Leader of Derby City Council said:

We know that the library service is important for our communities, and we are committed to keeping all Derby's libraries open as libraries. We also know that there will be challenges for us and the wider library sector around funding. We will tackle these challenges with optimism and ambition.

Our ultimate aim is to ensure that the library service continues to deliver quality, comprehensive and well-rounded provision and be in the best possible position to thrive in the long term.

I want to thank all the dedicated volunteers who generously give their time to provide an excellent service and who will play a vital role in the future.

The Council will continue to operate the city’s ten non-statutory community libraries while the delivery options are reviewed.

The non-statutory libraries are Allestree, Allenton, Blagreaves, Chaddesden Park, Chellaston, Derwent Community Library, Mackworth, Sinfin, Spondon and Springwood (Oakwood). 

At the same meeting, Cabinet will be asked to approve a proposal to tender with the East Midlands & Mid Anglia Libraries Consortium (EMMA) for library stock and materials for four years from 1 April 2024.

Community