Wandsworth Council is set to enhance its library services with the adoption of a new strategy, aiming to make libraries the central hub for community connection. The Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee convened on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, to discuss the draft Library Strategy, dubbed Libraries First!
, before its consideration by the Cabinet. The Library Strategy focuses on making the borough's 11 public libraries more inclusive, connected and future-ready.
A key aspect is to increase library visits, particularly among residents who may not be aware of the services available or face barriers in accessing them. The council also plans to boost residents' wellbeing by connecting them to community services and health professionals through programs like CathARTism at Balham and Tooting Libraries.
Key initiatives under the Libraries First!
strategy include:
- Universal Library Membership: Ensuring every child in Wandsworth has a library card.
- Facility Improvements: Refurbishing children's libraries at Battersea Park and Balham, planned for year one of the strategy. Specific timeline and budget details are not yet available.
- Extended Opening Hours: Piloting longer opening hours to accommodate diverse schedules at Roehampton Library, Battersea Park Library, and York Gardens Library. The criteria for evaluating the success of the pilot are not specified.
- Digital Inclusion: Introducing wireless printing and enhancing digital skills training.
- Cultural Enrichment: Expanding cultural events and exhibitions, potentially including mini-museums at more locations, such as Putney.
Councillor Gasser emphasized the importance of libraries in the community, stating that the strategy aims to ensure all residents, officers, and voluntary groups consider libraries as their first point of contact for information, study, and community activities.
During the meeting, concerns were raised about overcrowding in libraries, especially during peak revision times. Councillor Brooks inquired about income from commercial rentals within libraries and whether this space could be better used for library users. Officers responded that they would provide figures on income from commercial rentals and ensure space is available for library users.
Councillor Osborne suggested including cultural prescribing programs, such as the CathARTism program, in the well-being program and adding the Arts and Culture Strategy to the list of community activities to be promoted at the heart of the community.
The committee supported the recommendations in the Library Strategy, paving the way for its consideration by the Cabinet.