Rotherham Library Strategy 2027 to 2032

Overview

Rotherham Council is developing a new Library Strategy for 2027 to 2032 and we want your views.

Libraries are more than places to borrow books. They are spaces where communities come together, where learning and creativity thrive, and where everyone can feel welcome. As we look ahead, we want to make sure our libraries continue to meet the needs of local people and play a vital role in everyday life.

Our vision is for libraries that:

  • Sit at the heart of local communities
  • Are well-used, cost-effective, and responsive to changing needs
  • Offer modern technology and up-to-date resources
  • Act as neighbourhood hubs that improve quality of life
  • Inspire children, young people, and families to enjoy reading and learning.
  • Are inclusive of everyone

We will be delivering against Libraries Connected’s Universal Offers, which set the national framework for public library services. These include Reading, Digital & Information, Health & Wellbeing, and Culture & Creativity. Our work will align with these offers to ensure consistency, quality, and impact across all our services.

This consultation will close on the 25 May 2026.

This is your chance to influence what happens next. We want to know:

  • Do our libraries inspire learning and bring communities together?
  • Are they offering the right services?
  • Do they reflect the needs and diversity of Rotherham’s communities?
  • If you don’t use libraries, why not? Is it location, accessibility, or simply not knowing what’s available?

Your view matters. Every response will help shape the future of libraries in Rotherham; from the services we provide to the spaces we create. Whether you’re a regular visitor or someone who’s never stepped inside a library, we want to hear from you.

Tell us what matters to you and help us to write the next chapter for Rotherham libraries. Every response counts!

The consultation will take place in two phases. Phase one will gather views through the questionnaire. Phase two will follow later in the year and will seek feedback on the draft Libraries and Neighbourhood Hubs Strategy.

Have your say on the future of Rotherham Libraries and Neighbourhood Hubs

Areas

  • All Areas

Audiences

  • Anyone from any background

Interests

  • Adult social care
  • Antisocial behaviour
  • Bins
  • Business support
  • Carers
  • Children
  • Climate change
  • Communication
  • Community safety
  • Council housing
  • Cultural activities
  • Cycling
  • Democracy and participation
  • Employment
  • Environmental plans
  • Families
  • Green spaces
  • Health and wellbeing
  • Homelessness
  • Leisure
  • Libraries
  • Local economy
  • Local services
  • Museums
  • Neighbourhoods
  • Parents
  • Parking
  • Planning
  • Pollution
  • Private rented housing
  • Public transport
  • Recycling
  • Residents satisfaction
  • Roads
  • Rural development
  • Skills
  • Social housing
  • Spending
  • Sport
  • Sustainability
  • Urban development
  • Walking
  • Young People