The Phillip Whitehead Memorial Library at Chaddesden Park and Blagreaves Library are set to follow in the footsteps of Sinfin, Spondon, Allestree and Mackworth libraries in becoming Community Managed Libraries.
This week, Mackworth Library reopened as a Community Managed Library and is now run by local charity, Direct Help and Advice (DHA), who will be operating all Derby Community Managed Libraries.
The Phillip Whitehead Memorial Library at Chaddesden Park’s last day operating as a Council-run Library will be Saturday 20th July and will reopen as a Community Managed Library on Tuesday 6th August.
Blagreaves Library’s last day as a Council-run library will be Saturday 31st August and will reopen as a Community managed Library on Monday 16th September.
During these temporary closures, the Council will carry out training to enable a smooth transition for customers and volunteers alike. In the interim, customers can access and reserve books at other Derby libraries, with eBooks continuing to be accessible 24/7 online.
The Philip Whitehead Memorial Library at Chaddesden Park and Blagreaves Library will become the fifth and sixth libraries respectively to become CMLs, with plans for Chellaston, Allenton, Springwood and Derwent being transferred by the end of February 2020.
Councillor Robin Wood, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism explains:
In December 2018, we dedicated additional funds to the project and have since developed a roll-out plan which we are delivering on schedule. The communities these libraries serve have always been at the heart of the project. With DHA able to work closely with communities, the libraries have the opportunity to offer services beyond those typically offered.
Council are set to realise the project’s full ongoing annual saving of £673,000 in the 2020/21 financial year.
Community Action Derby is working in partnership with DHA to recruit volunteers for all proposed Community Managed Libraries. For more information about the opportunity to be part of the future of your local library and how to get involved in volunteering please contact them on 01332 346266.