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Report on evening opening at Riverside Library

Introduction. The aim of this report is to assess whether Riverside Library should extend its opening hours on weekday evenings. It is based on a survey of users carried out between 3 and 17 March and on a review of staffing records for the previous year.

Findings. In total, 214 users completed the survey. Roughly one in three respondents said that they were unable to visit the library before five o'clock because of work or study commitments, and 62 per cent were in favour of later closing. Demand appears to be strongest on Tuesdays and Thursdays, when many students prepare for evening classes. By contrast, only a small minority expressed interest in Sunday opening.

It was also found that the study area is almost full between four and six o'clock, which suggests that existing space is already under pressure. However, it should be noted that staff costs would rise if the building remained open until nine. According to the figures supplied by the finance office, an additional evening would cost approximately £1,150 per month.

Conclusions. There is clear evidence of unmet demand, particularly among people who work during the day. Nevertheless, a permanent change would carry financial risk, and the data on weekend use is too limited to draw reliable conclusions.

Recommendations. It is recommended that the library introduce late opening on Tuesdays and Thursdays on a six-month trial basis. Attendance should be monitored each month, and the results reviewed before any permanent decision is made. Provided that funding can be secured from the community budget, the trial could begin in September.