Derby City Council Transfers Management of 10 Libraries to New Trust

Derby City Council has announced that the operation of 10 of the city’s libraries will be transferred to a “not-for-profit” organization. The city’s network of “community-run” libraries had faced an uncertain future. In March 2023, the then Conservative-led authority initiated a consultation regarding these facilities. This process was subsequently paused when Labour assumed control of the council in May 2023, proposing instead that an independent charity could be appointed to manage them. This decision was agreed upon in March of the current year. On Wednesday, Derby City Council stated that Sporting Communities, a community interest company, would establish a trust to operate the libraries. This trust is set to assume responsibility for the sites located in Allestree, Allenton, Blagreaves, Chaddesden Park, Chellaston, Derwent, Mackworth, Sinfin, Spondon, and Springwood. These 10 libraries have been managed by volunteers since 2017. Sarah Chambers, the cabinet member for cost of living, equalities, and communities, affirmed that the council acknowledges the “crucial role in our communities” played by libraries. She further commented: “Closing the libraries would have been detrimental to so many people.” The council will extend “financial support” to the trust, which will then lease the 10 sites. The five other libraries in Derby will continue under the direct administration of the council. Sporting Communities, founded in 2012, secured the library contract after outperforming two rival bidders. The organization currently manages Normanton Park’s community centre, the Football Foundation Play Zone, and Cruyff Court. In its proposal to undertake the library services, Sporting Communities expressed its ambition to utilize the buildings as centers for community activities, workshops, and events. Managing director Ben Rigby stated: “Our vision is to make them amazing places where everyone feels welcome and safe and where people can learn and connect with their community. We’ve got some exciting plans.”