Consultation on Future of Devon's Libraries

Devon County Council is asking residents to help shape the future of the county’s 50 libraries. 

From Monday 1 December people across Devon will be able to give their views on proposals to reduce and ‘standardise’ opening hours and options to extend opening hours through additional volunteering by using technology and the potential introduction of community managed libraries. 

No libraries will close under the proposals.

Together, they welcomed 2.6 million visits last year and hosted more than 14,000 events, ranging from children’s story sessions to digital skills workshops. Devon currently has 50 libraries, run by the charity Libraries Unlimited, alongside a Home Library Service and outreach programmes. 

The library service budget has been reduced year on year, and whilst efficiency savings have been made the current model is no longer sustainable.

The consultation runs until Sunday 22 February 2026. Forms can be completed online, at local libraries, or returned by post.

There is also be a survey available for younger library users aged 13 to 17. All responses will be reviewed before revised proposals are presented to Cabinet in spring 2026.