North Somerset's library service is at the heart of communities. It brings people together, supports learning, provides access to information and opens doors to opportunity.
The way people use libraries has changed. As councils across the country face tough financial times, we need to make sure library services thrive for years to come.
A 12-week consultation ran from 31 July to 24 October 2025. It invited residents, stakeholders and partners to comment on three distinct options for the future of library services to ensure they remain fair, accessible and sustainable.
The options – designed to achieve £433,000 in savings – included transferring up to three libraries to community management or closure (Worle, Winscombe and Pill), adjusting staffed opening hours, expanding outreach services, reducing central costs (including the book budget), and exploring new income sources.
Outcome of the consultation
Close to 5,000 responses were submitted to the consultation. This included those received through a children’s survey. Each has been read, considered and has helped shape the final report recommendations. This will go to Cabinet and Full Council on 24 February.
These recommendations were presented to Cabinet and Full Council in February 2026 for consideration.
The Cabinet report is now available to view online. This includes the full set of draft recommendations for the future library service, outlining how consultation feedback, equality assessments and financial evidence have informed the proposed way forward.
Full Council decision – February 2026
Full Council met on 24 February 2026 and has now approved the recommended approach for the future of North Somerset’s library services. This confirms the council’s decision to proceed with Option B, as shaped by consultation feedback and assessment of local need.
The approved plan includes a combination of community‑based solutions, revised staffed opening hours, expanded outreach provision and targeted savings, ensuring the council continues to provide a comprehensive and efficient library service within its budget.
A phased implementation will begin from 2026. Residents, staff and partners will continue to be updated as this work progresses.