Would you like to see a more modern library in Hammersmith?

H&F Council has released proposals to open state-of-the-art town centre libraries that replicate the hugely successful Shepherds Bush Library. The council has commenced early discussions with developers that could see Hammersmith Library move to a new site in central Hammersmith and dispose of the current building. This proposal will only go ahead following consultation with residents and only if a suitable and affordable site for the library in the centre of Hammersmith is secured.

Shepherds Bush Library at Westfield, has been so popular since it opened last year that the council proposes to use the model as a blueprint for the future of the library service itself. The Shepherds Bush service was promoted as ‘More than a Library’ because it offers residents a variety of services under one roof and this is what the council wants to replicate in both Hammersmith and Fulham town centres. In the current difficult national economic climate, the days of small neighbourhood libraries, which serve relatively small numbers of customers are coming to an end. Instead, the council wants to move to fewer, but better state-of-the-art town centre libraries that attract more customers and are more cost effective to run.

The council is therefore seeking your views on how we can offer ‘More Than a Library’ in both Hammersmith Library (where we are seeking to find a more central location) and Fulham Library. The council wants to know what services and facilities you would like to see in libraries and are asking residents and visitors of Hammersmith to complete an online survey to provide them with the feedback they need to push the initiative forward.

In addition to this survey there will be an open day on Tuesday 24th August, from 14.00-19.00 at Hammersmith Library where you are invited to come and speak to staff and learn more about the proposals for the library service. Visit the LBHF website for more information.