Agenda item

To receive the report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services

The Committee received the report of the Director of Community and Children’s Services.

A Member sought clarification on when the subsidised residents’ rate would be known, commenting also that some Barbican residents might be disappointed that fees were being charged. The meeting heard that fees had not yet been set and that the same model would be used as that of the Artizan St library - and that any hire would be managed as a library space rather than a community space.

In response to questions on whether the deterrent effect of late fees would be lost if late fees were reduced or removed, the meeting heard that libraries across the country were reviewing their policies on late fees, and that evidence suggested that late fees generally did not impact significantly on returns.

Members commented that hospitality services were expected at such venues, noting the restrictions inherent in their provision because of the nature of the building and noting that library staff time would be a factor.