PUBLIC consultation has begin on a strategy that aims to modernise library services across Wirral.

At their last meeting, councillors on the tourism, communities, culture and leisure committee received an update on the progress of a new Library Strategy which, when finalised, aims to deliver an attractive, relevant, modern and flexible library service.

The committee had previously approved the strategy development and any associated consultations at a previous meeting in November 2020.

In recent months, the libraries team has been engaging with key internal stakeholders and partner organisations and received some insightful feedback and innovative suggestions.

As part of the development of the strategy, a widespread, inclusive and accessible public consultation and engagement exercise is beginning today, 28th June.

The eight-week public consultation began today. For more details and to have your say, go to https://haveyoursay.wirral.gov.uk.

Paper copies will be made available for those who can’t access the questionnaire online and can be accessed from the four central libraries - Bebington, Birkenhead Central, Wallasey Central and West Kirby.

There will be further engagement with key user groups including friends groups, other partners, stakeholders and any interested parties.

Andy McCartan, Wirral's assistant director of leisure, libraries and customer engagement, said: "I know how highly Wirral residents value their library service, for a range of different reasons.

"Residents’ involvement in this process is absolutely vital and there is an opportunity through the development of the new strategy for libraries to shape the services provided there into community hub models, that are flexible and receptive to the needs of the communities they serve."

At their last meeting, committee members agreed a date - provisionally November 17 2021 - when they will be presented with the final Library Strategy document, which will incorporate the recommendations and outcomes of the public consultation process.