Council taps into community for advice on future of libraries

20 August 2018

Ipswich City Council will conduct a community wide survey and host focus groups across the city as part of its review and forward strategy for its libraries.

Libraries and Tourism Committee Chairperson Cr David Pahlke said the council had agreed to engage an independent industry consultant to conduct a review of the Ipswich Library and Information Service Coping with Growth 2008-2026 strategy.

“Council’s Community Research and Engagement team will be undertaking community consultation to determine the priorities of the community in relation to library services and community facilities.  The consultant’s final report will be informed by the outcomes of the engagement process and will include the results of the consultation initiatives,” he said.

Cr Pahlke said a survey will be circulated utilising both online and paper response options.  It will be distributed to library members, networks and residents, who will have the opportunity to complete the survey through a link on council’s website.

“The survey will be open for one month to ensure as many responses as possible. The survey will consist of around 10 questions that ascertain what kinds of services are needed and how far people would be willing to travel to access these services,” he said.

“The focus group sessions will offer participants the chance to engage in discussion on these questions.”

Cr Pahlke said the community consultation will happen during September and October and analysis of the data will be completed by the end of November. He had requested a “real hands-on survey” tapping directly into community needs and wants.

“Local sentiment for public library use is strong, even among community members who may not use the library themselves, but support access to library services for everyone.  Council is committed to the sustainable future of public library services for all residents,” he said.

The Coping with Growth 2008-2026 strategy was reviewed and approved by council in October 2010. Updates were done in 2013 and 2015.

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