has been matched by the delivery team within the council, and GLL’s expert knowledge. Lydia Lee is Bromley’s Assistant Director with Responsibility for Culture, Regeneration and Economic Development and she says that an “invest to save” ethos has helped drive through the improvements. The work followed a condition survey carried out in 2022 on all council buildings, which uncovered a number of issues with the library estate, but again there was a recognition of the importance of libraries as community assets.
Lydia said: “The Council took the decision to review its estate and identify buildings that were no longer required and bring the buildings that were being kept up to a good standard. All libraries were retained as it was recognised that there is potential for libraries to play an increasingly important role as accessible community spaces.
“There was an economic case – build- ings in a poor condition cost more to re- pair and often these are limited fixes, for example constantly repairing an old boiler instead of investing in a new one. Invest- ing properly in refurbishing the buildings will save money in the long term. On some sites there was a risk of closure within the next 10 years if investment wasn’t made. “And it is increasingly recognised that library buildings have more and more potential to support and provide com- munity services given how well placed they are geographically in the heart of the towns they serve.”
She adds: “GLL were very involved from the start and have been part of the project team. Everyone has worked together posi- tively with our clear common goals.” Rebecca points to the close links and trust that has been built between the council and GLL, saying: “Our successful
Councillor Yvonne Bear.
partnership is built on shared values, clear communication, and a willingness to innovate. In Bromley, we have worked together to grow the service, and we are proud that since 2021, Bromley Libraries have been the highest issuing in London. Bromley Council has shown real vision by investing in libraries at a time when many authorities are reducing provision. GLL has complemented that by bringing oper- ational expertise, community focus, and a drive to continuously improve. That alignment has been key to deliver- ing results we can both be proud of.” Among the works being carried out on libraries are:
l Installation of public toilets with baby changing facilities;
l installation of accessibility features such as ramps, push buttons and accessible toilets where possible;
l future-proofing heating and cooling systems to minimise the cost of long-term maintenance of the site, and to improve the environmental sustainability of the Council’s portfolio;
l replacement of windows with more energy efficient windows and roofs to reduce the need for future repairs, and lower ongoing running costs;
l removal of hazardous materials includ- ing asbestos and lead paint;
l the repair of CCTV, fire and intruder alarms;
l replacement or repair of all walls and flooring;
l the provision of new community spaces such as hireable meeting rooms;
l enlarged children’s areas as these require more space for activities;
l external works, providing maintenance to trees and bushes to lower long-term damage caused by them – this has included some tree removal.
So, what does this investment and belief in the transformative power of libraries mean for services and users? Rebecca says: “The upgrades have allowed us to expand our offer. For example, we can now host larger-scale events and activities thanks to flexible spaces, and improved technology has made it easier to deliver digital skills sessions and online access. We have a new maker space offer at West Wickham Library. The brighter, more welcoming environment also means our staff are engaging with more customers, whether it’s supporting a child’s reading journey or helping someone navigate online services.”
West Wickham library. 30 INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL Winter 2025
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