Julian Supports Explore York’s Successful Bid to Continue Delivering the Local Library and Archive Service
March 11, 2019
Back in October last year Julian placed on record his support for Explore Libraries to help their fantastic and ambitious bid to be approved. It is great news that last week they were awarded the contract to run York’s flagship library and archive service for the next 15 years, fulfilling the Conservative-led administration’s commitment to fully fund library services for the term of that contract.
This announcement follows a long procurement process to determine which organisation would be best placed to run York’s 14 libraries and archives service. The new contract begins on 1 April, immediately after the existing 5 year contract with Explore Libraries expires.
In terms of figures, Explore has been given £34.25 million to run the service over the next 15 years, plus capital funding of £4.2 million to spend on new or improved library buildings.
Some of the key priorities for Explore over the next few years include:
- Continuing as the flagship service centre, including the archives and local history centre.
- Providing Explore Gateways at a variety of venues, preferably with cafe facilities, and co-located with other community activities where possible, with local communities invited to be involved in their operation.
- Setting up virtual libraries providing a 24/7 online service, involving e books and e magazines, with virtual spaces for people to share ideas.
- Providing reading cafes, encouraging the joy of reading especially for those who may feel uncomfortable in a more traditional library.
Commenting after the announcement Julian said, “I am absolutely delighted that Explore have been awarded the contract. I know from speaking with local residents how important libraries are to their communities and the value people attribute to their local library service.
Explore York’s contribution to the city thus far with the development of libraries as community hubs has been met with a very positive response from residents. Their ambitious vision for the future of our local service provides a really exciting opportunity for York. ”
