Views sought on future coffee shop provision at Central Library

The former coffee shop in the Regent Circus library closed just before Christmas following a reorganisation of the Council’s in-house catering arrangements.

But now library users and the wider public are being asked by Swindon Libraries and Information Service what they would like to see replace it.

The consultation will be open until Friday, 31 January.

After the feedback from users has been collated, the library service will invite expressions of interest from the market to run the coffee shop facility. It is hoped a new coffee shop provision could open in the spring.

Councillor Keith Williams, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for libraries, said: “Although the former library coffee shop was much loved by some of our library users, it wasn’t used by enough people to make it cost-effective. We therefore need to make sure we have the right provision in place that will appeal to more people so it remains financially sustainable.

“This is why we are really keen to find out what local people want as we can ensure that any new services meet people’s needs. We want to hear from as many people as possible so we have a wide cross section of views, so if you can spare a few minutes please fill in the survey and tell us what you think.”

The consultation is available online at: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/CentralLibraryCoffeeShopConsultation and paper copies will be available inside Central Library.