Wandsworth Council has extended its library services contract with Greenwich Leisure Ltd (GLL) for an additional two years, ensuring continuity of service until March 2028. The contract extension ensures that the new Libraries First! Wandsworth Library Strategy and Action Plan will be delivered within the existing funding envelope.
The decision, made during a Cabinet meeting on Monday 14 July 2025, recognises GLL's 12-year track record of managing a high-performing library service in the borough. The extension aims to align with the council's new Libraries First! strategy and action plan, all within the existing budget.
According to the Public reports pack, GLL's proposal includes several service enhancements, such as:
- Maintaining extended hours at Roehampton Library.
- Increasing opening hours at Battersea Park Library and York Gardens Library.
- Adding a total of 40 extra hours per week across the libraries, at no additional cost.
These improvements are designed to make library services more accessible to residents across Wandsworth.
The Libraries First! strategy sets the strategic direction for investment, programming and partnerships that will benefit residents in the borough over the next five years and beyond. The strategy also aims to ensure that library services remain accessible and inclusive for all residents, particularly those from marginalized or underrepresented communities.
The Libraries First! strategy outlines nine key themes for the library service:
- Access for All
- Connecting with Communities
- Learning
- Reading
- Wellbeing
- Information
- Culture
- Digital Inclusion
- Sustainability
The strategy aims to ensure that libraries remain at the heart of the community, providing essential resources and support for residents of all ages and backgrounds.
During the meeting, Councillor Gasser, Cabinet Member for Children, highlighted the importance of libraries as community hubs, offering a range of activities from baby rhyme time to study spaces for young people. She also emphasised the role of librarians as trusted professionals who can signpost residents to various support services.
Councillor Henderson noted positive feedback from residents of Roehampton regarding the extension of hours at their local library, stating that it has regenerated for the community
and become a hub for various community events.
The contract extension with GLL will allow the council to further explore ways to enhance library services and ensure they meet the evolving needs of the community. The council aims to make libraries the first place residents turn to for help, information, and cultural experiences.
The Agenda frontsheet for the meeting also shows that the Cabinet discussed a range of other topics, including the Corporate Plan, financial results, events in parks, the Wandsworth Growth Plan, damp and mould, decarbonisation schemes, and equality objectives. These other topics will be covered in separate news reports.
