Consultation on proposed changes to library opening hours across liverpool
Start date: 26th August 2026
End date: 17th October 2026
What are we consulting on?
We recognise that libraries are highly valued by residents and play a vital role in their communities. Understanding the potential impact of changing library opening hours is essential as we work to deliver the Liverpool Library Strategy 2026-2031 in a financially sustainable way. Your feedback will help shape future decisions. Thank you for taking the time to take part in this consultation.
We are consulting on changes to opening hours at all 14 libraries including changes to the opening hours of the Archive Search Room within Liverpool Central Library.
We are proposing to reduce the number of closed days and increase opening hours on Saturdays (with a short lunchtime closure) in some libraries. We are also proposing to permanently remove the previous Sunday opening at Liverpool Central Library and to reduce early evening/evening opening hours across some libraries. Overall, the proposals will see an increase in total opening hours from 493 to 496.5 per week and provide a standardised approach to opening.
We are committed to delivering a modern, accessible and financially sustainable library service that meets the needs of residents across the city. Our libraries support reading, learning, culture, digital inclusion, health and wellbeing, and provide trusted community spaces.
We must take responsible steps to manage our budget while continuing to provide a "comprehensive and efficient" library service as required by law.
This proposal represents a way to deliver necessary savings whilst minimising overall impact on service accessibility.
We are consulting so that residents and stakeholders can give their views on how this proposal may affect them.
How to comment
There will be an online survey and paper copies of the survey available in libraries and other venues.
What happens to my views?
The results of this survey will be used by Liverpool City Council to inform new library opening hours.
This survey does not ask for names or addresses, but it does ask for information from which individuals could potentially be identified (for example postcode, combined with age range). This personal information will be accessed by staff from Liverpool City Council. Data will be kept for 12 months before it is securely destroyed.
Evaluation will take place following the close of the consultation which will inform the opening hours review.
Your feedback will enable us to ensure we provide an optimum set of opening hours for libraries.
Further information
For further information, please visit Libraries.