Decision details

The Community Run Library Programme objectives were set out in the Cabinet paper E3000 dated 23/11/2017. The application has shown that it meets the relevant criteria and is beneficial to the local community.

PRA will operate the community library in St Johns Community Hall. They have opted for Option B (700 books) which includes the click and collect service. The community space is currently being used for coffee mornings, social events, activities, public meetings and fundraising events. The community library will operate three half days per weeks (including Saturday). PRA have recruited 22 volunteers who will help run the facility, they will be managed by a volunteer co-ordinator.

As there are a number of community buildings in the village, PRA has provided an options analysis setting out their rationale for choosing the location which included dedicated space to run the community library and significantly reduced running costs as the building has been offered free of charge.

As part of the assessment process equalities issues were considered. PRA has demonstrated that they had given consideration to equalities issues within their policy and proposal submitted. They will receive Equalities Training as part of the package of training support provided by the Council as well as on-going support through the libraries network.

PRA has undertaken a consultation with their local community. A survey was sent to all households in the Autumn of 2018. This includes a series of questions to gauge the level of interest and information about local residents needs. As a result a number of local residents came forward to volunteer.

An application from Peasedown St John Residents Association (PRA) to run a Community Run Library has been received and has been assessed against a number of criteria which includes: governance, equalities, and community consultation. The application which includes a one off grant of £5,000 has been approved. The funding will be used to purchase new equipment and associated library costs. The final terms of the agreement will be finalised in due course.

The objectives for setting up a Community Run Library were addressed in the Cabinet paper and discussed at length in a subsequent call in request. PRA Application meets the requirements for a Community Run Library and only one application has been submitted for this location.

Comments were received from Peasedown St John Parish Council regarding an alternative option to investment the funding to reintroduce the mobile stop at St Johns Court. PRA’s proposal provides better value for money as it will offer local residents a weekly library service with associated activities. For those residents unable to access the service they will be able to referral to the Home Library service.

Other options would be considered by Cabinet if no application had been received.