Applications received for all Community Managed Libraries

Tue 5 Dec 2017

Following the Community Managed Library (CML) expression of interest process which concluded at midday on Monday 4 December, applications have been received to run each of the ten libraries that have been identified by the Council as potential CMLs.

Direct Help and Advice (DHA) have submitted 10 applications to run CMLs in Derby and many individuals have come forward to demonstrate their interest in volunteering at one or more CMLs. The ten libraries which are proposed to become community managed, as part of the Council’s plans to safeguard their future following budget cuts, are Allenton, Allestree, Blagreaves, The Phillip Whitehead Memorial library in Chaddesden, Chellaston, Derwent, Mackworth, Sinfin, Spondon and Springwood.

Derby City Council will be undertaking a robust evaluation process, which will begin this week and is expected to continue for several weeks. The next steps will be announced once the process has been completed.

Councillor Amo Raju, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism at Derby City Council said,

“I’d like to thank all the individuals and groups who have engaged with the expression of interest process. The success of Community Managed Libraries is important so that these valuable community assets can remain in our city. This is why it is one of our 50 pledges and why Derby City Council is committed to supporting the local community to ensure a successful outcome is achieved to deliver a sustainable library service. ”

Derby City Council is helping design an effective training programme for volunteers.  This would be targeted to support the transition of libraries and to ensure that they can flourish and enhance local communities.  

Further information about CMLs can be found here.