Data Protection Act solution goes live in Derby Community Managed Library

Published: 17 September 2019

Derby City Council has successfully put in place a new technology solution for volunteers at Allestree Community Managed Library (CML). It will allow Direct Help and Advice (DHA) volunteers to carry out library tasks without needing to access customer data, ensuring the Council stays compliant with the Data Protection Act 2018.

The solution was implemented earlier this month in Allestree CML run by local charity DHA. Volunteers will be able to carry out tasks such as issuing, renewing and returning books, searching for books and placing holds, offering customers an efficient library service.

CML volunteers will also be able to offer new customers a provisional membership which will allow them to borrow up to two non-chargeable items on the day they join. For customers to obtain full membership they will need to show their ID to a member of council staff.

Council colleagues have trained more than 50 volunteers so far and have more training planned. The next library to go live with the solution will be Spondon and Blagreaves on 16 September 2019, with other CML libraries to follow in the coming weeks.

Councillor Robin Wood, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said:

This is another positive step forward for the project. The Council has worked hard with its partners to implement a system that gives volunteers more opportunities in their libraries and offers an efficient service to customers.

DHA’s aim is to provide the local community with services beyond borrowing books. They are working closely with communities at each local library to tailor services to fit each area. They are also working in partnership with Community Action Derby to recruit volunteers for all the Community Managed Libraries. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or seeking more information on how to get involved in volunteering should contact Community Action Derby 01332 346266.

Community, Public safety