That the current provision of the library service management system be extended for up to two years.

The Executive considered a report relating to the extension for up to two years of the Civica IT management system used by the Library Service.

The Executive Member for Resident Services informed the meeting that the current IT system managed book stock, hire charges, wi-fi, etc.  A review was being undertaken on how the libraries would be managed in the future eg scope and products provided and therefore it was proposed to extend the current management system rather than tender for a replacement until the Council was clear what scope any replacement was required to cover.  Also following an internal benchmarking exercise the current system was found to be 25% cheaper than the available alternatives.

Councillor Haitham Taylor brought to the meeting’s attention that the summer reading scheme had started and the theme was “record breakers” and asked that everyone encourage children and young people to get involved in the scheme.

In response Councillor Jorgensen highlighted that Wokingham was one of the few areas in the country where the libraries have increased in usage and not only had the footfall increased but they had become more cost effective.

RESOLVED:  That the current provision of the library service management system be extended for up to two years.