Devon residents asked to help shape future of local libraries as major consultation launches

Devon County Council has launched a 12-week public consultation on the future of its 50 libraries, inviting residents to give their views on proposed changes to opening hours, staffing models and the possible introduction of community-run sites.

The consultation, which opened on Monday 1 December, asks people across the county to comment on plans to “standardise” staffed hours, expand the use of volunteers and explore new technology such as Open Access systems that would allow registered users to enter libraries outside normal hours. 

The council emphasises that “no libraries are proposed for closure.”

Exeter is home to some of Devon’s busiest branches, including Exeter Library, Pinhoe Library, St Thomas Library and Topsham Library, which welcomed thousands of visitors last year as part of the 2.6 million total visits recorded across the service. 

Libraries Unlimited, the charity that runs the network on behalf of the council, hosted more than 14,000 events countywide ranging from children’s storytimes to digital skills workshops.

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The review comes amid continued financial pressures at the council. The library service budget has faced year-on-year reductions, and while borrowing of e-books and audiobooks has risen, physical lending has not returned to pre-pandemic levels.

Under the proposals, libraries would be grouped into geographic areas, with at least one major library in each area open Monday to Saturday. 

The council is also seeking public feedback on whether local organisations should have the option to run libraries with support from the authority, an approach already used in Cornwall, where most branches are community-managed.

Councillor Cheryl Cottle Hunkin, Cabinet Member for Libraries, said the consultation is an opportunity to rethink how libraries operate while keeping all 50 open: “Devon’s libraries are trusted spaces at the heart of our communities,” she said. 

“As people’s needs change, this is a chance to ensure libraries remain accessible, flexible and sustainable.”

Libraries Unlimited chief executive Alex Kittow urged residents to take part. “Libraries are vital community spaces where everyone is welcome,” he said. 

“This consultation offers a way to protect these places long into the future.”

The consultation runs until Sunday 22 February 2026. 

Surveys can be completed online, in local libraries (including those in Exeter) or returned by post. A simplified children’s version is also available.

Revised proposals will be presented to the council’s Cabinet in spring 2026.