Decision - Sustainability plan for libraries

This report seeks approval of the sustainability plan for libraries.

2.1 That having considered the information provided in this report and its appendices, Cabinet agrees to make the following changes to existing library provision, being satisfied that its remaining provision complies with its statutory obligation to provide a comprehensive and efficient library service 2.1.1 Cabinet agrees to reduce opening hours at Jubilee Library by 5 hours/week on Monday evenings and Sunday afternoons from 1 st April 2026 ; 2.1.2 Cabinet agrees to reduce opening hours at Hove Library by 5 hours/week on Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons from 1st April 2026; 2.1.3 Cabinet agrees to close Hollingbury Library on 31st March 2026 and notes that officers will work with partners in exploring alternative options for future community based provision; 2.1.4 Cabinet agrees to continue the existing library provision in Rottingdean with a further report to be brought back to Cabinet in 12 months to review the outcome of work with community partners; 2.1.5 Cabinet agrees to close Westdene Library on 31st March 2026 and notes that officers will work with partners in exploring alternative options for future community based provision; 2.2 That Cabinet delegates authority to the Corporate Director for Families, Children and Wellbeing, working in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Sport & Leisure, to take all steps necessary or incidental to the delivery of the recommendations in paras 2.1.1 to 2.1.5 inclusive.

The report analyses library use, community needs and operating costs to inform possible reductions to opening hours at Jubilee and Hove Libraries and the closure of up to three community libraries. It proposes considering closure of Rottingdean, Westdene and Hollingbury Libraries, while identifying alternative services and a formal public consultation to assess the impact.