Dorchester library users and non-users are being asked to share their views to help shape the future of the service.

Dorset Council has launched a public consultation - which can be found here.

There are 23 council-run and eight community-managed libraries in Dorset Council area, which provide book lending, digital access and support, information, exhibitions and more.

The current library strategy is 11 years old. Over those 11 years, there have been significant changes in public behaviour and digital technology and the impacts of the Covid pandemic have been felt.

This consultation aims to look to the future of Dorset's libraries - how they can best meet the needs of local residents and communities, now and over the next 10 years.

Councillor Laura Miller, Dorset Council's portfolio holder for customer and community services, said: "This is an exciting time, we are calling on all residents to help us shape the future of Dorset's library service.

"Since the previous library review in 2010, we've seen big changes in both public behaviour and digital technology, and it is now time to look to the future of our libraries.

"This initial consultation period will be a conversation with our communities, employees and partners to better understand what they need from the service, now and in the future.

"So, whether you are an active library user, if you have visited our libraries in the past, or if you have not visited one of our libraries before - we want to hear from you. Your views will help us to provide a modern relevant and sustainable service, and I encourage everyone to have their say."

The survey will close on Friday, January 7 and responses will be brought together. A draft strategy will then be produced, which will be the focus of a second consultation, to be held in summer 2022.

There is also a dedicated children's survey for ages five to 15. To find all the surveys, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Support is also available via customer services where an officer can help to fill in the survey over the phone. Call 01305 221000.

Paper copies are also available from your local library.

For those who fill out the survey, there will be an option to be entered into a prize draw to win one of two prizes - a Kindle Paperwhite or an Amazon Echo Dot. Children who complete the survey could win a £25 Amazon voucher, with three to be given away. Full terms and conditions can be viewed online.

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