Four-year vision for Essex Libraries becomes a reality

The final Everyone’s Library Service 2022-2026 plan has launched, marking the next step in an exciting future for the county’s libraries.  

This follows an 8-week public consultation that took place between November 2021 and January 2022, when thousands of residents told us their views on our proposed plan. Feedback received was used to mould the final plan. 

Helping children and adults improve their literacy, encouraging people to enjoy reading for pleasure and increasing the range of online resources available to customers are just some of the commitments in the plan.  

It also commits to keeping all 74 libraries open with investment in training and the upskilling of existing library staff.  

The plan also sets out three key aims for the next four years and details how these will be achieved.  

Library Service and Literacy 

• Improving literacy for children and adults
• Getting children ready for school
• Offering up-to-date stock and resources
• Delivering a programme of exciting events
• Upskilling staff and working with volunteers to enhance the service.

Communications and infrastructure

• Improving communications with residents so they know what is on offer and working to attract new users  
• Investing in our spaces so they are vibrant, accessible and flexible
• Ensuring our buildings are as ‘green’ as can be.

Supporting our communities and levelling up 

• Making sure no one is left behind by expanding our outreach and community involvement
• Enhancing employability, wellbeing, culture and arts through bringing people together
• Encouraging greater footfall, including welcoming new users through exciting new activities.

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community, Equality, Partnerships and Performance, Cllr Louise McKinlay said: “I’m really pleased to announce the launch of our final library plan.  

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the plan come to fruition. This is a really important moment for our Library Service and signifies the start of lots of exciting opportunities for residents,  

“I would like to thank everyone that took part in the consultation. Your comments, challenges and feedback gave us lots to think about and really did help us mould the final plan. 

“Our goal from the start was to give all our residents a Library service that everyone can be proud of and one that will enhance lives and help communities to thrive.  

“Our plan will help create a service that is modern, vibrant and sustainable, with improved access, better facilities and more opportunities for local people.” 

“I truly believe the service will flourish with the plan now becoming a reality.” 

Read more about our plans for the service.