Libraries to launch into 21st century (01 July, 2007)

The plans have been developed to enhance customer satisfaction with the libraries, providing much improved facilities and a new environment for residents to enjoy the wealth of services on offer.

The recommendations, which are expected to be agreed are:

• Re-fitting the libraries to include modern designs and better use of space- ensuring that customers can easily find what they are looking for and make use of dedicated areas for internet use, study or activities.
• Introducing a café- Starbucks cafes will be introduced in to the libraries, providing another service for customers. These will be scaled according to the size of the library- with fully licensed cafes in the largest libraries and self-serve vending machines in the smallest.
• Better use of stock- the way that stock is resourced and allocated will be improved to ensure faster delivery of stock to library branches, ensuring more choice for customers.
• Better use of resources- changes will be made to the organisation of staff resources so that opening hours can be extended and services enhanced.

Victoria Road and Manor Farm libraries are expected to be the first of the borough's 17 libraries to undergo a re-fit, with work starting towards the end of this year.

Cabinet member for culture, sport and leisure, Cllr Henry Higgins said: "Good, well operated libraries are important to the cultural life of our community and we are taking bold steps to improve services for our customers. By putting our residents at needs at the heart of our plans we are bringing in new ideas and improving the facilities, which suit their needs. These plans demonstrate a clear commitment from the council to provide 21st century services for Hillingdon, helping us to be a borough of learning and culture."

On the partnership with Starbucks, Cllr Mills added, "The opening of the new library opposite the Linden Ave car park will coincide with a new Starbucks coffee shop inside the building. As the council develops 21st century buildings and service delivery, we sought a partner and as local councillors, both Cllr Markham and myself are delighted that Starbucks have agreed to be that partner".