Welcome News From Devon County Council

Libraries Unlimited is delighted with the overall outcome of today’s Devon County Council Cabinet meeting where the results of the consultation into the ‘Future Library Service’ was debated and key decisions made. It’s fantastic to see that the Council has listened to the public and that opening hours will remain unchanged; that additional funding will be provided to purchase books; that they’ll be working with us to extend hours further using technology and volunteers; and that overdue charges will be scrapped.  

We believe that this decision is testament to the crucial role that libraries play in communities across Devon. People rallied round to protect their local services, they made their voices heard, and over 25,000 completed the consultation survey. We’re grateful to the County Council for listening and to Councillors for taking the time to go out and visit libraries and see first-hand the fantastic range of services provided.  

Today’s decision by the Council’s Cabinet means that we’ll be able to look ahead to the future and work with the Council to put in place plans and clear timescales to deliver on what has been decided. This is a fantastic day for Devon’s Libraries and the communities they serve.  

We know there’s lots of work ahead, and we’ll be looking to deliver as quickly and as efficiently as possible to ensure that our libraries are fit for the future. Please keep an eye on our website and social media for future updates.