Central to the updated strategy is the decision to keep Oakwood Library open, despite initial proposals for its closure.
Enfield Council has introduced its new Library Strategy, outlining plans to modernise and improve library services while addressing the financial pressures affecting councils across England. The strategy focuses on ensuring the long-term sustainability of the borough’s library network by retaining and enhancing nine key libraries as community hubs, following feedback from residents and stakeholders.
Central to the updated strategy is the decision to keep Oakwood Library open, despite initial proposals for its closure. The Council’s decision reflects the strong community support for the library and its importance to local life. More than 2,400 residents participated in the consultation, and the Council responded to their overwhelming support for retaining this vital facility.
The nine libraries prioritised in the strategy include Ordnance Unity Centre, Edmonton Green, Ponders End, Fore Street, Millfield House, Palmers Green, Enfield Town, Ridge Avenue, and Oakwood. These libraries accounted for nearly 90% of visits during 2023/24, demonstrating their popularity and essential role within the community. The Council is also in discussions with the landlords of Enfield Island Village Library to explore its potential transformation into a dedicated community space.
Councillor Ergin Erbil, Leader of Enfield Council, emphasised the importance of maintaining quality services while managing financial challenges. “Libraries are at the heart of our communities, and we want to ensure they continue to provide exceptional services for all. While we’ve had to make some tough decisions to safeguard our financial future, this strategy strikes the right balance between good financial management and maintaining quality library services.
“I’m particularly pleased that Oakwood Library will remain open, reflecting our commitment to listening to residents and adapting our plans to their feedback. By focusing on libraries that serve the most people, we’re creating modern hubs for learning, creativity, health, and wellbeing.”
The updated strategy includes plans to expand the opening hours and modernise facilities at the retained libraries, ensuring they are welcoming and accessible spaces for residents. Over the next financial year, £1.5 million will be invested to enhance library services, making them more sustainable and better equipped to meet the needs of the community.
Beyond physical spaces, the strategy strengthens the Council’s commitment to digital services and the home library service, ensuring support for residents unable to visit libraries in person. Enfield libraries will continue to offer a wide range of services, including free access to books, digital resources, study spaces, warm spaces, and community activities for all ages.
Despite the closure of some libraries, the Council is confident that the revised network will meet residents’ needs, with more than 80% of residents remaining within a 25-minute walk of a library.
The strategy will be reviewed at the Cabinet meeting on 26 February and Full Council on 27 February 2025. Pending approval, the Council aims to implement the strategy as a model of excellence, combining modern facilities with diverse services to support learning, wellbeing, and community engagement across the borough.
This decision ensures that libraries will remain integral to local communities while adapting to future challenges.
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