Ensbury Park Library Consultation report As part of its review of Council buildings to see how services can be brought together to make it easier for the public to access services in one visit and to help meet budget pressures, the Council decided to undertake a public consultation on potential options for the future delivery of the library service in the area. The Council consulted on three options which were as follows: Option one: Relocate Ensbury Park library services from Columbia Road to the Learning Centre on Ensbury Park Avenue. Option two: Develop the current site to include housing and a small library Option three: No change to the current location and building. Consultees were given service provision and financial information for each of the options, this can be seen in the appendices. Consultees were asked for their opinion on 3 options and were asked if they had any alternative proposals for the future of library services in Ensbury Park. The Council said to consultees that its preferred option was option 1 as this would make financial savings through using shared premises to deliver the library service, provide longer opening hours and would mean the existing site could be sold or redeveloped. Methodology A Consultation questionnaire and supporting information was available in all Bournemouth public libraries, the Bournemouth Learning Centre and an online version of the questionnaire was available on the Council’s website. Each venue had a drop box for returned questionnaires and a covering poster with information about the closing date of the consultation, methods of returning forms, contacts for queries, and contacts for a tour of BLC if requested. The decision was made to place questionnaires in each Bournemouth Library as the library database shows that a number of library users use a selection of libraries. The consultation opened on Monday 30th November and closed Monday 1 February. A phone number and email address was included in the consultation document should any member of the public have any questions that they wish to ask regarding the consultation and the options. Respondents were asked to return their completed questionnaires to any Bournemouth Public Library, the Bournemouth Learning Centre or to the Consultation Team at the Town Hall. The Market Research Group at processed the hard copy responses. The consultation was publicised in a range of ways: - Advance display at Ensbury Park Library from 17th November 2015 - On display in 12 libraries and BLC for two months - By Libraries Service & Strategy Manager at two meetings of North Bournemouth Area Forum and a meeting of /Winton West & Ensbury Park Area Forum - By library staff member Graham Brown at another meeting of Wallisdown/Winton West & Ensbury Park Area Forum - On front page of Bournemouth Council website - On front page of Bournemouth Libraries webpage and on Ensbury Park Library’s webpage on Council website - On website of Wallisdown/Winton West & Ensbury Park Area Forum

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- Articles in Bournemouth Daily Echo Responses In total 347 questionnaire responses were received, 49 responses through the website and 298 paper returns. Of these, 104 responses were from library users who state they currently only use Ensbury Park Library, 62 responses from library users who currently use Ensbury Park Library and also use another public library and 181 responses were from library users who currently do not use Ensbury Park Library. In total 166 responses were received from Ensbury Park Library users. Table 1: Library user category.

Frequency % Ensbury Park Library user only 104 30% Ensbury Park Library user and another library user 62 18% Not an Ensbury Park Library user 181 52% All Ensbury Park Library users (EP only + EP and other library user) 166 48% Total 347 100

Understanding this report The total number of respondents vary for each question. This is because not all consultees provided a response to every question. The total number of respondents for each question can be found in brackets below the graph or where a question has been analysed by library user the total number of respondents for that group will be found in brackets next to the category label. For the purpose of this report where applicable, questions have been analysed by the following categories: A.) Ensbury Park Library users only B.) Ensbury Park Library users and another library user C.) All Ensbury Park Library users (A+B) D.) Not an Ensbury Park Library user E.) All respondents (A+B+D) F.) Total other library users (B+D) The questionnaire included a number of open comment questions for respondents to expand their views on the proposed options. The comments included in the report have been selected to provide examples of the issues raised by consultees. A full list of comments for each question can be found in the appendices.

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Consultation analysis Respondents were asked which public libraries they currently use, 48% of respondents currently use Ensbury Park Library, 29% use Bournemouth Library and 24% use Library. Table 2: Which of the following public libraries do you currently use?

Frequency % Ensbury Park 166 48% Bournemouth Library 100 29% Boscombe Library 83 24% Westbourne Library 64 18% Southbourne Library 60 17% Winton Library 49 14% Castlepoint Library 40 12% Hub 43 12% Charminster Library 33 10% Library 35 10% Library 31 9% I use a public library in Poole or 13 4% Library 82% I use the Home Library Service 21%

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In total 166 respondents currently use Ensbury Park Library. Of these, 63% (104 respondents) currently only use Ensbury Park Library and 37% (62 respondents) use Ensbury Park Library and at least one other library. Figure 1 shows which other libraries are used by respondents in this category, the most frequent responses were Winton Library (53%) (33 respondents), Kinson Hub (40%) (25 respondents) and Bournemouth Library (29%) (18 respondents). Figure 1: Which of the following public libraries do you use? (Ensbury Park library users)

60%

53%

50%

40% 40%

29% 30% 26% 26%

20% 15% 11% 11% 11% 10% 8% 6% 5% 3%

0% Winton Kinson Hub Bournemouth Castlepoint Charminster Southbourne Boscombe Springbourne Westbourne West Howe I use a public Tuckton I use the Library Library Library Library Library Library Library Library Library library in Library Home Library Poole or Service Dorset

Base: 62 respondents

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Respondents were asked how often they use Ensbury Park Library. 49% (51 respondents) who only use Ensbury Park Library say that they use the library at least once a week, with a further 30% (31 respondents) stating they use it once every two weeks and a further 15% (16 respondents) at least once every three weeks. 27% (16 respondents) who use Ensbury Park Library but also use another public library state they use Ensbury Park Library at least once a week, with a further 12% (7 respondents) saying they use the library once every two weeks and 18% (11 respondents) saying they use the library once every three weeks. 23% (14 respondents) state that they use Ensbury Park Library between once every four weeks and once every three months and 20% (12 respondents) use it less than once every three months. Figure 2: How often do you use Ensbury Park Library?

A.) Ensbury Park Library user only (104) 49% 30% 15% 5% 1%

B.) Ensbury Park Library User and another library user (60) 27% 12% 18% 23% 20%

C.) All Ensbury Park Library users (A +B) (164) 41% 23% 17% 12% 8%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

At least once a week Once every two weeks Once every three weeks Between once every four weeks and once every three months Less than once every three months

Base: Varied as labelled Of the respondents who use Ensbury Park Library but who also use at least one other public library, 39% (22 respondents) use Ensbury Park Library more frequently than the other library, 39% (22 respondents) use Ensbury Park Library less frequently than the other library and 23% (13 respondents) use Ensbury Park Library the same frequency as another library.

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The chart below shows how respondents currently travel to Ensbury Park Library. The graph shows the mode of travel for those respondents who only use Ensbury Park Library, those respondents who use Ensbury Park and another library and the results for both of these groups combined (all Ensbury Park Library users). 72% (111 respondents) who use Ensbury Park Library currently walk to the library. This increases to 83% (79 respondents) of those users who only use Ensbury Park Library and decreases to 53% (32 respondents) of those respondents who use Ensbury Park Library and another library. 16% (25 respondents) of all Ensbury Park Library users travel to Ensbury Park Library as a driver of a car, this decreases to 8% (8 respondents) of those respondents who only use Ensbury Park Library and increases to 28% (17 respondents) who use Ensbury Park Library but also use another library. In total, 12 respondents (8%) said that they currently get the bus to Ensbury Park Library. Figure 3: How do you currently travel to Ensbury Park Library?

90% 83% 80% 72% 70% A.) Ensbury Park Library user 60% 53% only (95) B.) Ensbury Park and another 50% library user (60) 40% C.) All Ensbury Park Library 28% users (A+B) (155) 30%

20% 16% 12% 8% 8% 10% 5% 3% 2%2%2% 0% 1%1%2% 1% 0% Walk Drive a car Bus Drive in a Bike Other as the car as a driver passenger

Base: Varied as labelled

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Respondents were asked what they do at Ensbury Park Library. The majority of Ensbury Park Library users (88%) (142 respondents) use the library to borrow books for themselves, 42% (67 respondents) use the library to help find out information, 32% (52 respondents) use the library to borrow books with or for their children, 29% (47 respondents) use the library to borrow DVDs and 24% (39 respondents) use the library to attend social events and 24% (39 respondents) use the library to use the computers. Figure 4: If you use Ensbury Park Library, what do you do at the library?

100% 92% 88% 90% 82% 80% 70% 60%

50% 42%42%42% 37% 36% 40% 32% 29% 27% 29% 30% 24%25%23% 24% 24% 20% 20% 17% 17% 15%16% 15%16%15%17% 16% 13% 11% 12%11% 8% 10% 10%7% 10% 10% 6% 5% 7% 0% I use the I use the I use the I use the I attend social I use the I attend school I attend Under I use the I attend I use the I use the Other library to library to help library to library to events with library to use holiday 5's activities library on Councillor library as a online library borrow books me find borrow DVDs borrow books adults the computers activities with with my behalf of other surgeries member of a resources from for myself information with or for my my children children people reading group home, work, children school or college

A.) Ensbury Park Library user only (101) B.) Ensbury Park Library User and another library user (60) C.) All Ensbury Park Library users (A+B) (161)

Base: Varied as labelled

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Respondents were asked to select up to 3 main reasons for using Ensbury Park Library, for the majority of Ensbury Park Library users (83%) (131 respondents) their main reason was to borrow books for themselves, 27% (42 respondents) use the library to borrow books for their children and 23% (37 respondents) use the library to find out information. Figure 5: Out of the activities selected in the above question, which are your main reasons for using Ensbury Park Library?

100%

90% 87% 83% 80% 76%

70%

60%

50%

40% 29% 27% 30% 25%23% 22% 22% 21% 17% 17% 20% 14% 14% 10% 11% 12% 10% 11% 12% 9% 9% 10% 10%10%9% 10% 8% 10% 7% 5% 7% 7% 5% 7% 6% 4% 2% 3% 3% 0% I use the I use the I use the I attend social I use the I use the I attend Under I attend school I use the I attend Other I use the I use the library to library to library to help events with library to library to use 5's activities holiday library on Councillor library as a online library borrow books borrow books me find adults borrow DVDs the computers with my activities with behalf of other surgeries member of a resources from for myself with or for my information children my children people (for reading group home, work, children example, a school or neighbour or college someone I care for)

A.) Ensbury Park Library user only (99) B.) Ensbury Park Library user and another library user (59) C.) All Ensbury Park Library users (A+B)(158)

Base: Varied as labelled

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Respondents who use a public library other than Ensbury Park Library were asked what they use the other library for; to borrow books, find out information and use of the computers were the most frequent answers. This was also the finding when respondents were only asked to select their three main reasons for using another library, however ‘I use the library to borrow books with or for my children’ was also cited as the third main reason. Figure 6: If you use another public library in Bournemouth, what do you do at that library?

100%

90% 87%86% 83% 80%

70%

60%

48% 47% 50% 45% 42% 37% 40% 34% 32% 29% 30% 27% 30% 24% 20% 19% 18%19% 18% 20% 14% 15%14% 14% 15% 12% 12% 12% 10% 8% 8% 9% 9% 8% 7% 7% 6% 10% 5% 4% 5%

0% I use the I use the I use the I use the I attend social I use the I use the Other I use the I attend school I use the I attend I attend Under library to library to help library to use library to events with library to library as a online library holiday library on Councillor 5's activities borrow books me find the computers borrow DVDs adults borrow books member of a resources from activities with behalf of other surgeries with my for myself information with or for my reading group home, work, my children people children children school or college

B.) Ensbury Park Library user and another library user (59) D.) Not an Ensbury Park Library user (172) F.) Total other library users (B+D) (231)

Base: Varied as labelled

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Respondents were asked which services that are available in other Bournemouth Libraries they would use if they were available in the Ensbury Park area. Advice and information surgeries, café, public accessible toilets and educational classes were the most popular of the choices available. Figure 7:Of the services available at other Bournemouth libraries which would you use if available in the Ensbury Park area?

70% 64%

60% 53%

48% 47% 50% 46% 44% 43% 43% 40% 40% 37% 37% 36% 34% 33% 32% 33% 31% 30% 30%31% 28% 30% 28% 28% 23% 27% 25% 23% 23% 23% 21% 19% 19% 19%19% 19% 20% 17% 17% 14% 13% 13% 12% 12% 11% 11% 10% 9% 9% 9% 10% 7% 8% 7% 8% 7% 5% 6%

0% Cafe Advice and Educational Public accessible Writing Family and local IT suite Police surgeries Beginners IT help Job club Other information classes toilets workshops and history workshops and support surgeries author talks e.g.Citizens Advice Bureau, health, Pension Wise

A.) Ensbury Park Library User Only (57) B.) Ensbury Park Library User and an other library user (46) C.) All Ensbury Park Library users (A+B) (103) D.) Not an Ensbury Park Library User (70) E.) All respondents (173)

Base: Varied as labelled

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Option one: Relocate Ensbury Park Library services from Columbia Road to the Bournemouth Learning Centre (BLC) on Ensbury Avenue. Respondents were asked to read the supporting consultation document and were asked how far they agree or disagree with potential options for the future of Ensbury Park Library Service. The first option proposed to relocate Ensbury Park Library services from Columbia Road to the Bournemouth Learning Centre (BLC) on Ensbury Avenue. 82% (132 respondents) of all Ensbury Park Library users either ‘strongly disagree’ or ‘tend to disagree’ with the proposal to relocate Ensbury Park Library service to the Bournemouth Learning Centre. 15% (24 respondents) of Ensbury Park Library users either ‘strongly agree’ or ‘tend to agree’ with the proposal. Figure 8: Having read the questionnaire and information, how far do you agree or disagree with the following option - Move the Ensbury Park Library Service to the Bournemouth Learning Centre.

1% A.) Ensbury Park Library user only (101) 5% 1% 5% 88% 0%

B.) Ensbury Park Library User and another library user (61) 10% 20% 8% 7% 56%

C.) All Ensbury Park Library users (A+B) (162) 7% 8% 4% 6% 76%

D.) Not an Ensbury Park Library user (163) 36% 34% 8% 4% 5% 13%

E.) All respondents (325) 22% 21% 6% 5% 40% 6%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly agree Tend to agree Neither agree nor disagree Tend to disagree Strongly disagree Don't know / no opinion

Base: Varied as labelled

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43% (42 respondents) that currently only use Ensbury Park Library state that they would use the library less frequently if the library service was relocated. 42% (41 respondents) state that they would no longer use any library service, 12% (12 respondents) state that it would not change their use of the library service, 9% (9 respondents) said they would use another library, 3% (3 respondents) would enquire about using the home library service, 2% (2 respondents) said they would use the library service more frequently and 1% (1 respondent) would use a wider range of services at the Bournemouth Learning Centre. 36% (22 respondents) who currently use Ensbury Park Library and another library state they would use the library service less frequently, 33% (20 respondents) state that if the Council decided to relocate Ensbury Park Library Service it would not change their use of the library service, 20% (12 respondents) would use another library, one in ten respondents (10%) (6 respondents) state they would no longer use any library service, 10% (6 respondents) said they would use the library service more frequently and 5% (3 respondents) state they would use a wider range of services at the Bournemouth Learning Centre. 72% (85 respondents) who do not currently use Ensbury Park Library the relocation would not change their use of the library service. 11% (13 respondents) would use the library service more and 15% (18 respondents) would use a wider range of services at Bournemouth Learning Centre. Figure 9: If the Council decides to relocate Ensbury Park Library Service how would this affect your use of the library service?

80% 72% 70% 60% 50% 42% 43% 42% 36% 40% 33% 30% 23% 20% 20% 15% 17% 12% 11% 13% 10% 8% 8% 9% 9% 10% 8% 8% 10% 5% 3% 3% 4% 2% 0% 1% 0% 1% 1% 0% 0% It would not change I would use the library I would use the library I would use a wider I would enquire about I would use another I would no longer use Other my use of the library service more service less frequently range of services at using the home library library any library service service frequently the Bournemouth service Learning Centre

A.) Ensbury Park Library user only (98) B.) Ensbury Park Library user and another library user (61) C.) Not an Ensbury Park Library user (118) E.) All respondents (277)

Base: Varied as labelled

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Table 3: If the Council decides to relocate Ensbury Park Library Service how would this affect your use of the library service? (All current Ensbury Park Library users) (A+B)

Frequency % It would not change my use of the library service 32 20% I would use the library service more frequently 8 5% I would use the library service less frequently 64 40% I would use a wider range of services at the Bournemouth 4 3% Learning Centre I would enquire about using the home library service 3 2% I would use another library 21 13% I would no longer use any library service 47 30% Other 12 8% Total 159 100%

Forty-seven respondents said they would no longer use the library service if Ensbury Park Library is relocated to the Bournemouth Learning Centre (30% of Ensbury Park Library users). Of the respondents who said they would no longer use the library service 51% (24 respondents) are aged over the age of 65. Table 4: Gender, age and disability of those who state they will no longer user the library service

Frequency % Male 20 44% Female 25 56% Prefer not to say 0 0% Total 45 100% Aged under 16 2 4% 16 - 18 5 11% 19 - 24 2 4% 25 - 44 4 9% 45 - 64 6 13% 65 - 74 13 28% 75 - 84 9 19% 85+ 2 4% Prefer not to say 4 9% Total 47 100% Yes disability 9 20% No disability 27 61% Prefer not to say 8 18% Total 44 100%

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Respondents were asked to provide more information about how the relocation of the library service would affect them if the Council decide to relocate the library service. The following examples attempt to highlight some of the themes raised through the free text comments and a full list of the comments are provided in the appendices. 29 respondents who currently only use Ensbury Park Library and who said that they would no longer use any library service should the Council decide to relocate the service provided a comment in this section. Eleven comments from respondents in this category said that the proposed new location is too far to walk, some respondents said this was because of being unable to walk that far: “I wouldn’t be able to take my grandchildren, my legs are not so good these days, I couldn’t walk that far.” “I would not use it as it is too far too walk and why do the council not look in house at the number of managers and I worked for the council and it was crazy 4 mangers for 28 people.” “It would no longer be within walking distance - the added distance taking me beyond a distance I'd be happy to walk. Moving away from the main road also makes it more inconvenient - no useful shops or bus routes make it awkward. Smaller room would make the library have less choice, have less of an atmosphere (i.e. less welcoming) and be not as nice a place to go. I wouldn't use this library anymore.” Six out of the 29 respondents who provided a response to this question highlighted concerns around safety of the new location: “I would not use the library as it is too isolated and I would feel vulnerable walking on my own.”

Nine out of the 29 respondents who provided a response to this question were about the lack of public transport to the Bournemouth Learning Centre: “Lack of transport to new location from my home also would be unable to attend social occasions with other members.”

Three out of the 29 respondents who provided a response to this question were concerned about the size of the library space in the Bournemouth Learning Centre and the perceived loss of library service if the library is relocated: “No children's holiday clubs anymore, no Friday meetings, no mothers and toddlers reading group.” “Further away/out of the way, no one will know where is it. No buses, smaller rooms, no stock, less books. Less facilities - no children's group on a Thursday morning or holiday activities. Will there still be a reading group? No meeting for adults on a Friday afternoon. No full time staff/loss of genuine librarians who know books/authors.”

A further 43 comments were made by respondents who currently only use Ensbury Park Library but haven’t said that they would stop using the Ensbury Park Library Service if it was relocated. Some of the comments were similar to those previously mentioned; the new library is further to walk (8 comments) and concerns over safety (6 comments) and this

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would cause some respondents to use the library less frequently and some to drive instead of walk to use the library service: “As an old age pensioner I would have to walk much further along dark roads.” “I would not use the library as frequently as I do not like using Road in the evening.”

Eleven share concerns about recreating the current library setting and atmosphere in the proposed new location: “I would discourage my use of EPL service. The present library in its present form is such a good library, it was a god send to discover it. I do not feel it can be re-created in another location.”

“…The library is at the heart of the Community. It is not just a library! It is a safe, warm and friendly environment where many people go to get their books but also to talk to someone. Some of the older people in the area do not talk to people for days on end so they go to the library for some human contact and are met by very friendly and caring staff. Unfortunately, if you moved it to the Bournemouth Learning Centre it would not be the same as a lot of people who really need the library I feel would stop using it. I have been using this library for over 25 years. Please do not move it.”

“As for the atmosphere, it is not only sterile but can be intimidating, walking with my 89 year old around Slades Farm as there is no longer public toilets available in the park we went to the Education Centre and decided to have a hot drink, unfortunately a young man became very aggressive and started throwing things around the cafe. We left as soon as possible, my mother was most upset by the incident. May I suggest that witnessing this sort of behaviour is not desirable for either children or the elderly. Not a welcoming environment at all.”

“Looking at the limited space (less than half of present library) then book choices will be very limited. I would not be comfortable for my grandchildren to use the library at the BLC.”

Two respondents mentioned the benefits of moving the library to the Bournemouth Learning Centre:

“It would make the library a lot more accessible to my children after school and would mean we could all use it. More use for sure!”

“It would be better. The building is bigger and nicer and there are more facilities”

A comment was also made about parking: “I think the parking is awful in this area. The car park next to the slades farm area is always full with cars parked on every road and corner. It is dangerous before the library even goes near this area. It's dreadful someone should go and have a look and tell me where cars for the library are going to park!!!! Apparently it's students for the university as well as work cars for that area.” 49 comments were received from respondents who currently use Ensbury Park Library but who also use an other library. There are some similar themes made by this group of respondents as with those who currently only use Ensbury Park Library including concerns

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that the proposed new location is too far to walk (5 comments) and not as convenient (17 comments), safety to and around the BLC (4 comments) and the smaller size of the proposed new location (4 comments). Five out of the 49 respondents who left a comment for this question said that they would welcome the move to the BLC as it will provide longer opening hours and a wider range of facilities: “Better opening hours. Ensbury Park is not open enough at present. Have to use other libraries with better children's sections to get books for homework. Quite often we need books that night.”

“I would use the IT Suite as it's convenient to me”

“If relocated to BLC I would have to walk a bit further but don't mind that. I would probably also make use of the cafe facilities that are mentioned in the consultation document. If longer opening hours at BLC meant additional sessions for under 5's I would be able to use this more because the 1 session currently at Ensbury Park library is at a time I cannot make.”

Five respondents mentioned concern about parking in the proposed location: “It is very difficult to park as university students use the car park.”

Whilst one respondent believed there are benefits to the parking at BLC:

“I believe the new location would be beneficial as there will be more space and it should be easier to park.”

Most of the 59 respondents who do not use Ensbury Park Library that made a comment in this section state that the proposed option one would have no effect on them. However, ten respondents who do not currently use Ensbury Park Library state they might use it if it was relocated to the Bournemouth Learning Centre some because of the increased opening hours and for others it was the wider facilities available at the BLC: “I would use it because it is a better location, more accessible and would have more facilities. I don’t use Ensbury Park Library because it is difficult to park, small and has limited stock and opening hours.”

“I don't currently visit Ensbury Park library as it is further away and has little choice of books. If it moved it would be put on back street rather than main road which may make it easier to park. Also bigger space may allow a larger selection of books to be available there.”

“I would make more visits to the Bournemouth Learning Centre and enquire more about special events (e.g. author talks).”

“I would be more likely to visit the library and the centre of other facilities. I also believe that it would be one of the few obvious money saving options in the library service which would also be beneficial to the library.”

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Option Two: Develop the current site to include housing and a small library

38% (59 respondents) of all Ensbury Park Library users either ‘strongly agree’ or ‘tend to agree’ with the option to develop the current site to include housing and a small library, 44% (67 respondents) either ‘tend to disagree’ or ‘strongly disagree’ with the proposal.

Figure 10: Having read the questionnaire and information, how far do you agree or disagree with the following option? Subject to financial viability, develop the current site to include housing and a small library. This option will not contribute to savings needed from the library service.

A.) Ensbury Park Library user only (93) 26% 23% 8% 19% 22% 3%

B.) Ensbury Park Library user and another library user (59) 12% 12% 22% 25% 24% 5%

C.) All Ensbury Park Library users (A+B) (152) 20% 18% 13% 22% 22% 4%

D.) Not an Ensbury Park Library user (152) 5% 5% 20% 28% 24% 16%

E.) All respondents (304) 13% 12% 17% 25% 23% 10%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly agree Tend to agree Neither agree nor disagree Tend to disagree Strongly disagree Don't know / no opinion

Base: Varied as labelled

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Respondents were given the opportunity to provide any further comments about option 2. 112 respondents chose to provide a comment a full list of these can be found in the Appendix. Eleven comments related to the importance of the outdoor space and that it would be a shame if this was lost: “I think it would be a great shame to lose the outdoor space which is regularly used for lots of activities and events for both adults and children. It is also great extra space as the library is very popular and so often very busy.”

Eighteen respondents commented that they didn’t want a smaller library: “The library is too small already.”

Four respondents showed concern that if the site was developed for housing, then parking would become more of a problem, “If any housing is provided, additional parking may be a problem as this is already a busy area.”

“Housing down Columbia Road is getting bigger. Lots of flats and less parking is a massive issue. So converting in to flats/housing would not resolve this issue. Residents would complain.”

Fourteen respondents took the opportunity to state that this was their most preferred option: “Whilst I acknowledge this is an investment rather than a cost-cutting option, I believe it is in the best interests of the local community. The current library is a real community hub in an excellent ' high street' position. It is also on useful bus routes for those without transport. There is space for useful accommodation in the building and in the garden area and I am sure council staff who rent would find it a very convenient location.”

Thirteen respondents questioned the need to rebuild a library when there is an asset that can be used nearby and the cost to the library service. Most of these comments (not all) were from library users who do not currently use Ensbury Park Library: “Why bother when the Learning Centre is nearby with free parking.”

“If the capability of the library and opening hours are not increased this option seems pointless and the library will be closed during the building process.”

“The money is not readily available and could affect other library services.”

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Option 3: No change to the current location and building 67% (109 respondents) of all Ensbury Park users either ‘strongly agree’ or ‘tend to agree’ with option 3 whilst 16% (26 respondents) disagree with option 3 no change to the current location and building. Figure 11: Having read the questionnaire and information, how far do you agree or disagree with the following option? No change to the current location or building. This option will not contribute to savings needed from the library service.

A.) Ensbury Park Library user only (100) 61% 19% 10% 3% 5% 2%

B.) Ensbury Park Library User and another library user (61) 28% 20% 16% 15% 15% 7%

C.) All Ensbury Park Library users (A+B) (161) 48% 19% 12% 7% 9% 4%

D.) Not an Ensbury Park Library user (151) 6% 5% 13% 28% 30% 19%

E.) All respondents (312) 28% 12% 13% 17% 19% 11%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly agree Tend to agree Neither agree nor disagree Tend to disagree Strongly disagree Don't know / no opinion

Base: Varied as labelled

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It is clear from the quantitative questions that for the majority of respondents who use Ensbury Park Library option 3 is their preferred choice and this is reiterated in the literal comments. 87 respondents chose to provide a comment for this question. The main reason for this that its current location is in a central location within the community (42 comments) and the community and friendly offer that the current Ensbury Park Library provides (17 comments). The strength of feeling is illustrated by some of the comments below. (Please see Appendix for a full list of comments). “Yes, this library is loved by all who use it. The fact that it is small adds to the strong community attachment. It is friendly, welcoming not just by the fabulous staff but the users of the library too. Old and young like being able to have conversations - this just gets lost in bigger libraries. In the current world we live in, we really need a strong sense of community and I strongly feel this only happens in smaller local environments.”

“The library as it is now is very pleasant, homely and every user is redefined in warm and personal way, becoming quickly recognised and valued members of the EPC community. It has a human and community value which greatly exceeds the 'sum of its parts'.”

“This is one of the few activities I can still do with my grandchildren outside of the home and it looks like this is going to be taken away from me.”

“This library is well situated - bus stops, crossing, very easily accessible for the large number of older locals. It's much more than just a library, it's more of a community centre. I've seen children blossom and gain confidence through the activities. The staff are brilliant, knowledgeable, welcoming and are great at encouraging the younger generations to become lifelong library users.”

Twelve respondents who do not currently use Ensbury Park Library state that they do not feel this option is viable and question why the Council would spend money on repairs when the BLC is available nearby: “If the existing premises need a lot of work done but an adequate premises is available nearby. Doesn’t make sense to spend a lot on an old building that is in a bad way.”

“Doing nothing doesn't help anybody because the building will eventually need repair etc. and the funds may not be available. Also the option to relocate to BLC may not be there in the future so could run the risk of losing the library in the Ensbury park area altogether which would be a shame.”

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When respondents are asked to say which of the three options they are more in favour of, 59% (83 respondents) of all Ensbury Park Library users are more in favour of option 3, 22% (31 respondents) are more in favour of option 2 and 15% (21 respondents) are more in favour of option 1.

Figure 12: Which of the 3 options are you more in favour of?

A.) Ensbury Park Library user only (88) 7% 20% 69% 3%

B.) Ensbury Park Library user and another library user (52) 29% 25% 42% 4%

C.) All Ensbury Park Library users (A+B) (140) 15% 22% 59% 4%

D.) Not an Ensbury Park Library user (135) 77% 5% 6% 12%

E.) All respondents (275) 45% 14% 33% 8%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 None of these

Base: Varied as labelled

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Respondents were asked if they have an alternative proposal for the future of library service in Ensbury Park. 54 respondents chose to provide a response to this question. A full list of comments can be found in Appendix 1. Many of the comments did not offer alternative proposals but used the space to reiterate that they felt the library should be left as it is (option 3). One proposal suggested by twelve respondents was to extend the current library to include either one or two flats above or a community space that can be rented out: “The council could extend the present building onto part of the garden to make the library larger, with using the computers would bring in some income for the library services. They could then maybe build one or two flats above the library.”

“Yes--- either make the upstairs rooms available to let to organisations that need a small meeting room and generate some income OR look at the possibility of letting upstairs as a 2 bedroom flat ...perhaps for a key worker?”

Another proposal suggested by five respondents included looking at different sites where the Ensbury Park Library Service could be located this included the Co-op building, post office and local schools: “Relocate to the recently vacated Co-op or move the library to one of the local schools.”

“Instead of placing the library in the Bournemouth Learning Centre, use the post office on Columbia Road. It has a café and will provide them with business as well as the library being situated in the same road.”

Other proposals included ideas on how the current site could be expanded:

“I would like to see the current opening hours at Ensbury Park library increase to at least five days a week perhaps in sacrifice for one late night opening. If the current library was to stay and maintenance work be undertaken could a covered area be made in the garden to increase the amount of space available for larger groups to use on rainy days?”

“Keep the existing library location and when developing incorporate a children's soft play area (as there is not much to do when it's raining) which would attract even more people to the area and encourage to use the library.”

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Respondents were next asked for any ideas that they would like to put forward for raising income and / or making library service budget cuts. A variety of suggestions were provided and a full list can be found in the Appendix. Eleven respondents suggested coffee shop, café and snack facilities are introduced within libraries to raise income: “Open a café/sandwich bar. Sell stationary very similar to post office.”

“Having a café in the libraries would be rather nice. I feel very proud of our library service in Bournemouth and would hate to see it cut further. A town without culture is a waste.”

“A coffee shop would attract people in to the library.”

Eight respondents offered suggestions included charging for computer and internet use. “Small charge for computer use”

“You could charge to use the computer, not a lot but £2 per hour would help cover daily overheads.”

Seven respondents suggested introducing a charge for borrow and ordering books: “As RVS volunteer for the Home Library Service I visit the library every 3 week and I see how busy it always is with kids and people from the community meeting each other and looking in the computer for info on work and jobs etc. I see the library is an important part of the community and should therefore be in the middle of that community and not on the outskirts as proposed. There might be a (part) solution. I come from The Netherlands and there it is normal that you pay for your library services. You pay a fee of £ 30,00 per annum for people over 18 and for everybody under 18 its free. Can't this be taken into consideration?”

“Perhaps increase fees for ordering books. I use the service regularly and I would not mind a small increase to keep this library where it is.”

“Make a charge for borrowing books with the exception of pensioners and children.”

Ten respondents suggested selling old library books, book donations and other fundraising activities: “A small fee could be charged to join the library. Sell off old books. Some are sold very cheap could be increased. Libraries could accept donations of books and sell off surplus ones not required. I would prefer to donate to a library than a charity shop.”

“Ask people to contribute recently published books they have finished reading (or maybe been given two copies of as a present) to reduce expenditure.”

Five respondents suggested using volunteers to help run libraries: “Why do Bournemouth Councils (via library service) pay The Royal Reg Service to run the Books on Wheels Service? Each library should have its own team etc. volunteers. You state the library will be open 53 hours but at present it is about 42 hours

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including activities elsewhere there will be no library staff in the library for 13/14 hours per week. This is no way to run a good library.”

“More voluntary helpers - I for one would be willing to give up half a day to help preserve my library.”

Eight respondents suggested renting out the garden space and library facilities to community groups and events: “Extend the current building using the garden, with a community space that could be rented at and used as an asset. Community events, baby sales, play groups, meetings, birthday parties, table top sales, dance classes, various support groups are just some of the people that would use it and I personally would pay for hire for a toddler’s party venue as it is local. All providing rental income and even the existing library could be adapted to have a cafe within - therefore generates income. Also renting out the library space when it's closed. I just hope you read this.”

Other suggestions included increasing Council Tax, redistributing funds from other Council services and reduction of Management, looking at library staff and opening hours.

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Profile of respondents

Respondents to the consultation were asked to provide information about themselves. This can provide the Council with an equalities profile of the respondents to the consultation and can also show how views on the options vary for different people within local communities.

Table 5: Profile of respondents

All Ensbury Park Not an Ensbury Park Library users Library User Total Frequency % Frequency % Frequency % Gender Male 54 34% 58 37% 112 35%

Female 104 65% 95 60% 199 63%

Prefer not to say 21%53% 72%

Age group Aged under 16 64%00% 62%

16 - 18 64%11% 72%

19 - 24 42%53% 93%

25 - 44 29 18% 29 18% 58 18%

45 - 64 41 25% 46 28% 87 27%

65 - 74 35 22% 49 30% 84 26%

75 - 84 19 12% 25 15% 44 14%

85+ 10 6% 2 1% 12 4%

Prefer not to say 12 7% 6 4% 18 6%

Disability Yes 32 20% 24 15% 56 18%

No 101 64% 119 76% 220 70%

Prefer not to say 25 16% 13 8% 38 12%

Religious belief No religion 25 16% 52 33% 77 25%

Christian 108 69% 89 57% 197 63%

Buddhist 00%11% 10%

Hindu 00%00% 00%

Jewish 00%11% 10%

Muslim 00%11% 10%

Sikh 00%00% 00%

Any other religion or belief 21%11% 31%

Prefer not to say 22 14% 11 7% 33 11%

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All Ensbury Park Not an Ensbury Library users Park Library User Total Frequency % Frequency % Frequency % Ethnic background White British 133 85% 134 84% 267 84%

White Irish 21%53% 72%

White Gypsy or Irish Traveller 00%00% 00%

Any other White background 43%21% 62%

Mixed White & Black 00%43% 41% Caribbean Mixed White & Black African 00%00% 00%

Mixed White & Asian 11%11% 21%

Any other Mixed/ Multiple 00%00% 00% ethnic background Black/ British Caribbean 00%00% 00%

Black/ British African 00%00% 00%

Any other Black/ African/ 00%11% 10% Caribbean background Asian/ British Indian 00%00% 00%

Asian/ British Pakistani 00%11% 10%

Asian/ British Bangladeshi 00%00% 00%

Asian/ British Chinese 00%21% 21%

Any other Asian background 11%00% 10%

Arab 00%11% 10%

Any other ethnic group 00%00% 00%

Prefer not to say 16 10% 9 6% 25 8%

Sexual orientation Heterosexual / Straight 121 80% 124 81% 245 80%

Bisexual 11%32% 41%

Gay man 11%32% 41%

Gay woman / lesbian 11%00% 10%

Other 00%00% 00%

Prefer not to say 28 18% 24 16% 52 17%

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233 respondents provided a useable postcode. Of these, 30% of responses were from residents living in Redhill and Northbourne and 21% Wallisdown and Winton West. 27 respondents did not live in the Bournemouth area. Table 6: Respondents by ward area.

Ward Frequency % Redhill & Northbourne 69 30% Wallisdown & Winton West 48 21% Boscombe West 16 7% Boscombe East 11 5% Westbourne & West Cliff 11 5% 9 4% Talbot & Branksome Woods 10 4% East Cliff & Springbourne 8 3% East Southbourne & Tuckton 8 3% & Iford 6 3% West Southbourne 8 3% Kinson North 5 2% Kinson South 4 2% Queen's Park 5 2% Throop & Muscliff 5 2% Winton East 5 2% Central 3 1% 2 1% Total 233 100%

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