North East Lincolnshire Council’s Library and Archive Review
Public Consultation
The second phase of public consultation on North East Lincolnshire Council’s Library and Archive Review begins today (April 16), and will last for 12 weeks.
The Phase One consultation focused on building a better understanding of what our communities see as important, how people use library and archives services, and their views on future opportunities.
Its findings showed that the libraries and archives service, including the home and online library functions, are important for many residents, with access to traditional uses, such as borrowing books, valued. You can read the full results here.
As a result, people are now being asked for their views on options, all at an early stage, to develop the library service alongside other services in Grimsby and Cleethorpes to include community spaces where all ages feel welcome.
Meanwhile in Waltham, the option of a community library model is being explored. This would ensure continued access to valued services, such as borrowing books alongside other community uses.
Future proposed changes would be subject to viable business cases and the Council’s decision-making process.
The Phase Two consultation does not include Immingham Library as no change to the current location is being considered. The home library and online library service will also remain unchanged.
How To Have Your Say
Complete an online survey.
Or you can complete a paper-based survey available in one of our libraries.
Consultation close on 9th July 2025.
If you are struggling to access this survey online we have some drop-in sessions you can attend. You will get help in completing the survey or can pick up a paper copy:
- Immingham Civic Centre (foyer), Pelham Road – Wednesday 07 May, 2 to 5pm
- Freeman Street Market, Freeman Street – Friday 09 May, 10 to 1pm
- Cleethorpes Leisure Centre (foyer), Kingsway Road – Monday 19 May, 4 to 7pm
- Grimsby Town Hall, Bremerhaven Room, Town Hall Square – Monday 02 June, 2 to 5pm
- Waltham Parish Council Office, Kirkgate Car Park – Wednesday 18 June, 10 to 12pm and 6 to 7pm
There will be multiple focus groups throughout May and June.
To book onto one of these focus groups please email us at consultation@nelincs.gov.uk
Our vision is to create libraries that appeal to all ages and offer something for everyone. Looking at other services around the country we can see that bringing services together and creating community hubs has worked well. Immingham is an example of that located in the town’s Civic Centre.
I urge all residents to take part in this second phase of consultation so we can properly progress a vision for our Libraries and Archives Service. We will also be holding focus groups and community engagement events, to capture as full a picture as possible.
I wish to make it clear that no decisions have been made on the future of the service. That will only take place after a full analysis of the Phase Two consultation results and further discussions. There is one main aim here and that is to ensure a full, vibrant and growing service going forward, that is future-proofed and that everyone can enjoy.”
Cllr Hayden Dawkins, North East Lincolnshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and the Visitor Economy
Further Information
This latest consultation has no bearing on, or relevance to, the current temporary closure of the Grimsby Central Library building.
As reported, it has closed following a water leak, which risked disturbing asbestos present in the building.
Books and local history collections are now being removed for safe keeping as work continues to plan asbestos removal.
Looking at best practice, the Council has launched the review because:
- There has been a decline in library visits from annual pre-Covid figures of approx. 43 per cent;
- The economic and social advantages of bringing services together under one roof, while considering how future building design and layout can support services to keep their identity;
- Recognition that current library buildings will require significant future investment to develop vibrant spaces that better align libraries to meet community needs.
Considering the Phase One findings, alongside Council priorities of stronger economy and stronger communities, and trends in library usage, a focus on children and young people is a clear priority, while continuing to build on the service’s strong connection with the older community.
