At Tuesday’s Executive meeting (read our live coverage), members voted to approve the recommendations on changes to the library service, as set out in OnTheWight’s report prior to the meeting.
Conflicts in report
During public question time, Mike Wheeler from Freshwater Parish council (FPC) criticised the council over what he referred to as “disappointing and confusing” details in the report.
He pointed out one reference of a 25 year lease that conflicted with another referring to a 40 year lease and also mentioned two types of surveys. Given that FPC have been proactive with “aspirations and ambitions to regenerate the West Wight”, and also one that wishes to work with the Isle of Wight council, Cllr Wheeler explained the need for the Executive to address the issues that “have the potential to derail” any further meaningful discussions before they start.
A ‘Cinderella Service’
The discussion around the Paper brought with it praise for not only the senior officers, Rob Jones and John English, but also the various library groups across the Isle of Wight.
Cllr Fuller likened the Isle of Wight library service to a ‘Cinderella Service’. He went on to say the library groups had worked hard to ensure the Island had a library service fit for the 21st Century and have embraced change.
He said,
“I think the opportunities within the recommendations enables town and parish councils to work a lot closer with the library service and I think that’s great.
The fact they can become community hubs is great and let’s make them fit for purpose.”
Negotiate “completely openly”
Rob Jones gave an update and confirmed that all town and parish councils had been met since the paper was published. He added there are some concerns at the suggested length of lease and confirmed they’d try and negotiate “completely openly”.
Members voted in favour of the recommendations and will now begin negotiations with the town and parish councils to deliver partnership library services in Cowes, Freshwater and Ventnor keeping their current opening hours.
Changes will also take place to the Mobile Library.
The details
Full details in the Paper below.
LIBRARIES REVIEW – OUTCOME OF CONSULTATION
