Residents are reminded to have a say on the future of Dorset Council’s libraries before a consultation about the future of the service closes on December 22.

Dorset Council says there has been significant changes to public behaviour and technology since it last looked at the library strategy, more than 10 years ago. This was most prominent during the pandemic when libraries needed to adapt quickly to continue to provide highly valued services – albeit in a different way. With many events being held online, they racked up an impressive number of views - more than 112,000.

An online survey is seeking views on the new aims for the service and how they will be achieved. This includes questions on suggested opening hours, digital access, supporting learning, and providing space for enterprise and community spaces.

Councillor Laura Beddow, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Communities and Customer Services, said: “We must now look to the future of our library service, and how they can continue to deliver services, meeting the needs of our communities over the next ten years.

“Our draft strategy sets out how will do this through our mission to inspire, connect and enable our communities; we now need your help to refine the draft strategy. I encourage everyone to have their say."

In addition to the main survey, there is a children’s survey for ages 5-15 years.

To access the surveys visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/lets-talk-libraries

If you need help filling in the survey call 01305 221000.

Paper copies are available at libraries.