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As the way people use libraries changes – and as councils across the country face tough financial times – North Somerset Council needs to make sure library services continue to thrive for years to come.
That’s why the council is proposing to launch a public consultation this summer, asking residents for their views on the future of local libraries. The council’s Cabinet will decide whether to move forward with the consultation at a meeting on Wednesday 18 June.
If approved, the 12-week consultation (running from July to October) will ask for ideas and feedback on how we can:
• Improve community outreach so more people can access services,
• Adjust opening hours to better match demand,
• And explore how to provide strong services with fewer buildings.
North Somerset’s libraries are well-loved, but they also need to adapt. With rising costs and reduced national funding, the council must save £44 million over the next three years – including £433,000 from the library service starting in 2026. North Somerset Council want to make these changes with their communities, not to them.
Currently, services are delivered from ten local libraries, one community-run library in Congresbury, and a mobile library visiting 27 areas. The Council also offers a home delivery service for people who can’t visit in person, services for care homes, and a 24/7 digital library where users can access eBooks, audiobooks, newspapers, and more.
Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Open Spaces, Cllr Mike Solomon said: “Our libraries are more than buildings – they're community hubs, safe spaces, and gateways to knowledge. I want to stress that we remain fully committed to providing a quality library service that meets our statutory responsibilities and is fair, accessible and future-proof. Options put forward will be designed and based on the needs of our communities. If Cabinet agrees to move forward, more detail on the library options will be available in July and this consultation will be a chance for everyone to have their say. No final decisions will be made until we’ve heard from our communities and residents.”
A full report with recommendations based on community feedback is expected to go to Cabinet in February 2026, alongside an updated Equality Impact Assessment to ensure any changes are as fair as possible.
To read more and stay updated on the consultation, visit: Committee Report NSC