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The Library is still in need of new Volunteers to help ease the load on our existing team and to carry the Library forward
Would you be willing to give a few hours of your time and maybe bring some fresh ideas and/or  some particular skills to help run our Community Library and take it forward, if so please contact Margaret Jackson by either e-mail or telephone for an informal chat. 

[email protected]
01963 362038

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​In 2016 Stalbridge Community Library was selected to be included in a “tool kit” issued by the Government to assist other libraries who may be considering the locally managed route-the same as us. We had a visit from two people from Dorset library service headquarters during February 2016 to study the way we operate and to see if any lessons could be learned. As a result, the Government has issued a case study based upon the Stalbridge experience, and this is available to read by clicking on the button below. We in Stalbridge can be really proud of this achievement. 
"Role of the community...An extract from the government case study
Under the terms of the agreement the community managed library agreed to be responsible for all operating costs and to manage the library for the benefit of the local community. In addition to complying with all the necessary licences, policies, acts and legislation, the trustees agreed to use DCC’s fees and charges, and to develop a community managed website which is linked to the council’s library service web pages."
How We Got Here... An extract from the County Council perspective. Click on the button below for the full version.

"There has been a fairly long-term context around community transfer in Dorset. In 2006, the county council undertook an efficiency review linked to the available budget and this led to a proposal to close 13 small libraries from a network of 34. After considerable consultation and resistance, the decision was made to save money in other ways (eg reducing opening hours, bookfund, etc) to avoid closing libraries. In 2010, Dorset began a modernisation programme to refresh its service offer following the publication of a policy statement on public libraries together with expected efficiencies likely to be required. The library service was keen to avoid undermining the soundness of the overall service by further reductions. In order to meet the higher than anticipated budget savings, it was proposed that funding was ceased for 20 libraries.

Following an extensive and extended period of community consultation, the proposal was re-shaped to transfer 9 libraries to community management with a defined package of resources. It was clear from the consultation that the communities required some staffing support, access to the Library Management System (LMS) and book replenishment. Providing this package of support impacted on the ability to make the efficiencies required. However, the county council recognised the importance of listening to communities and responding to needs.

DCC is very committed to supporting the community managed libraries. Part of the success with this new means of service delivery has been the commitment of the local communities."
Volunteers Needed
Looking for another string to your bow?
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Why not volunteer to join the team running the Stalbridge Community Library? You don't need previous experience in running a library because you'll be shown what to do. It's interesting work, it's a chance to learn something new and.. IT'S FUN! Contact Christine Peters:
​[email protected]
Useful Links to library related services