Infrastructure Delivery Plan (Feb 2013) - Runnymede Borough Council

14.35 Changes in the nature of library use mean that SCC are not looking to enlarge any of
the libraries in Runnymede, but feel there will be pressures on service due to
increasing population and demographic changes 47 .
14.36 Significant growth areas in Surrey libraries are within all aspects of virtual services
including on-line resources, e-books and e-audio books and library websites. Physical
visits to libraries continue to fall across the UK and in Surrey. Total virtual visits to the
library service in Surrey increased from 2,523,690 in 09/10 to 3,161,022 in 10/11.
Table 16-Use figures for the 5 static libraries in Runnymede, (based on 2010-11 figures)
Library Book Issues Audio – Visual Issues Total items issued
per annum
Addlestone
51,814
2,458
54,272
Chertsey
Egham
46,850 2,463
89,588 4,890
49,313
94,478
New Haw 37,725 1,837 39,562
Virginia Water
17,201 740
17,941
14.37 In 2010/2011, SCC carried out extensive consultation through the Public Value Review
of Libraries (PVR), the aim of which was to deliver improved outcomes and value for
money. The review has instigated a number of changes to provision. Specifically, on
30th September 2010, the mobile library service ceased operation across Surrey due to
high levels of cost and low levels of use. The aim is to transfer current members to their
personalised choice of alternative service. Following extensive consultation with
registered mobile library members SCC are of the opinion that "Library Direct", a new
personalised service replacing the mobiles, and the residential homes service will be a
strong growth area, with pressure increasing from an ageing population.
Local Plan
14.38 The location policies in the Local Plan (LP01-LP08), confirm where new development is
expected in the Borough over the plan period. Development would largely be focussed
in the Borough’s Urban Areas and at the DERA site in Longcross. Growth over the plan
period is likely to increase demand for library services in the Borough.
14.39 In particular, development of the former DERA site (which would create 1500 new
homes) is likely to put an increased pressure on library services in Virginia Water. The
Council will need to consult with SCC to ensure that the needs of both new and existing
residents continue to be met as growth in the Borough occurs.
Future provision
14.40 Following the PVR of the Surrey Library Service, SCC plans to keep all of the libraries
open in Runnymede. Surrey’s long term vision will mean however that there are a
number of changes in the provision of the service in the Borough including the PVR
recommendation that New Haw and Virginia Water libraries become community
managed services.
47
Information provided by Surrey County Council 2012
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Runnymede IDP DRAFT – February 2013