Decision details

RESOLVED:

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)    Noted the programme to provide library services through a community managed model, as adopted by Northamptonshire County Council in 2018.

b)    Noted the current progress on the 3 remaining libraries, including the completion of the existing work around the leases for Irchester Library and Rothwell Library with the existing partners, which have been delayed due to works required to the associated properties.

c)    Noted that a further report will be brought forward to seek approval to enter into the lease agreement for Raunds library.

d)    Delegated authority to the Executive Member for Sport, Leisure, Culture and Tourism in consultation with the Executive Director for Adults, Communities and Wellbeing, to take actions necessary to complete the transfer process for Irchester and Rothwell Libraries.

Reason for Recommendations: The approval of these recommendations will enable the officers to continue to progress the 3 remaining transfers via the agreed processes outlined in this report, whilst maintaining the integrity of the Community Managed Library transfer programme as a whole and the duty of NNC to obtain best value.

Alternative Options Considered: The only other option considered as part of the library service transformation programme, established by the former County Council as detailed in section 4 of this report, is that where no viable proposal for a community managed library is forthcoming, that library would close.