RESULTS of the ‘future of Launceston Library’ survey have been published by the town council — with a number of respondents indicating they would like to see refreshments or a café situated there.

The council has said it is willing to enter into discussions with Cornwall Council on the possibility of taking on the town’s library, but said it needs the support of local people, as the council would have to increase the precept if it took it on.

The 13-question survey, which opened on June 9 and collected responses for eight weeks, had 438 responses.

The council said the summary of results should be seen as an overview only, with some duplicated responses, and that not all respondents answered all questions.

The majority of respondents were women. Those aged 31 to 50 made up around 40% of those taking the survey. Three children under 11 took the survey, and seven aged between 12 and 18.

More than 70% said their household would be prepared to pay an increased precept to Launceston Town Council to keep the free library service.

Around 30%, the majority, who answered how much their household would be prepared to pay each year, said between £5 and £10.

For the question on library services used, 333 people said they borrow books, 105 use the computers/internet and 103 said they use the library for local history research.

More than 90% said they use other town services when they visit the library.

Out of 202 people who answered the question on what other services they would like to see at the library, 82 suggested educational courses, while 77 said refreshments or a café. Sixty-seven people suggested literary or author events.

Around three quarters (76.08%) said the current opening hours of the library are convenient. It is open from 9.30am to 5pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 10am to 1pm on Saturdays, and is closed on Mondays, Thursdays and Sundays.

The survey results were due to be presented to the town council at its meeting on Tuesday, after the Post went to press.

All comments made by respondents can be viewed at the town council office.

The survey summary and overview and ‘any other comments’ collected are available via www.launceston-tc.gov.uk/The-Future-of-Launceston-Library.aspx

Cornwall Council recently ran a library and one stop shop review consultation from April to June.

The authority is still keen to hear from any local councils, groups or organisations that have considered delivering their local service but have not put forward a proposal.

Those interested in talking to Cornwall Council about devolving the library and one stop shop in their area are asked to email [email protected] or phone 0300 1234 111 by September 30.