NYCC Library Strategy 2008 - 2023

Name of the Directorate and Service Area	Adult and Community Services, Library and Community Services
Policy / Function / Service / Title	Library and Information Services: Library Strategy 2008 - 2023
Description of the service/policy	Our vision is that the Library and Information Service provides an excellent service that is accessible, relevant to and used by everyone who lives, works or studies in North Yorkshire. Inclusion is therefore fundamental to the strategy and its implementation, so it is essential that we ensure that not only are there no barriers to any particular groups of people accessing the service, but also that we are proactive in reducing any perceived barriers. The aims of the strategy are for libraries to be • centres of excellence for books and opportunities for reading; for learning and for access to information technology and computers, including the internet • the venues of choice for information • relevant and responsive and at the heart of local communities. The strategy details what the service currently provides and what it hopes to do in the next 15 years.
Results of the assessment:	Action Planning No adverse impact identified. The strategy now specifically mentions a number of ways to make services more accessible:- • developing a range of outreach services so people who cannot get to a library can still have access to books and other materials, including providing services to people in their own homes. • providing materials in alternative formats, including large print, audio-books, and subtitled DVDs, to maximise accessibility for people with sensory impairments. • Broadening the range of learning opportunities in order to engage with new and diverse users. • Ensuring that computers in libraries can be accessed by all, including disabled people, by exploring use of touch screens and specialist computer programmes. Partnership and engaging with local communities are underlying themes which will help to ensure inclusivity in the implementation of the strategy. We will continue the dialogue with groups such as learning