Published on
21 October 2026
Help us write the next chapter for our libraries
Residents invited to give their views and shape vision for the future of library services
Residents are being invited to have their say on Wokingham Borough Council's draft Library Strategy, which sets out a vision for library services over the coming years.
The consultation follows early engagement in July and August, which heard from more than 1,300 people, including residents, staff, volunteers and partner organisations. The feedback highlighted the importance of reading and literacy, maintaining local access to library services and supporting community connections.
The draft strategy proposes a vision for community-led library services that bring people together to learn, connect and make the most of local partnerships. It is built around five principles:
- Communities first – we will make decisions about library services based on community need and the outcomes we want to achieve.
- Fair and inclusive – we will consider who is affected by our decisions and seek to reduce barriers wherever possible.
- Learning for life – we will support reading, learning and access to information at every stage of life.
- Stronger together – we will work with residents, volunteers and partners to achieve more than we could alone.
- Forward thinking – we will make responsible decisions that support sustainable library services for future generations.
The strategy also identifies five areas that libraries can support: reading and literacy, learning and skills, digital access, health and wellbeing, and stronger communities.
Libraries continue to play an important role across the borough. So far this year, library teams have delivered more than 600 activities and events attended by over 12,000 people, supported by around 180 volunteers and a wide range of partner organisations.
As well as providing access to books, libraries help people develop skills, access digital services, connect with others and find support within their communities.
This consultation is an opportunity to check whether the draft strategy accurately reflects local community needs and provides the right framework for future library services.
Councillor Rachel Bishop-Firth, executive member for resident services, inclusion and fighting Poverty, said: “Libraries are deeply valued by residents. We need to think carefully about how they can continue to meet people’s needs in the years ahead. This strategy is about protecting what people value most, while making sure our services are fair, accessible and sustainable as our borough changes.
“That is why residents’ views are so important. We want to hear whether people think we have got the principles right, where they feel libraries make the biggest difference and what matters most for the future.”
The consultation is open until 10 November 2026.
Residents can take part online or complete a paper survey at any Wokingham Borough library.
