A SURVEY to help shape the future of Norton Library is being sent to residents and businesses.

A steering group is aiming to transform the library in Commercial Street into a community hub ahead of financial cuts from North Yorkshire County Council (NYCC).

Norton library was given community status by NYCC at a meeting to debate the future of libraries across the county last July.

Councillor Elizabeth Shields, the county council member for Norton, who chairs the steering group, said great efforts had been made to progress the development of the library.

"Our work towards this aim has included the appointment of a local architect to help re-design parts of the building," she said.

"This will include the former garage area and provide the extra space needed to accommodate many youth organisations and other activities."

Coun Shields said they were currently working on a business plan in cooperation with NYCC's stronger communities team and CaVCA (Coast and Vale Communities Association).

"This has to be submitted to the county council in the spring and the question of a lease with the council is also under discussion," she added.

Coun Shields said the survey is a real opportunity for everyone to express their own views and ideas on what the extended library could offer to our community as a whole.

Activities suggested include a cafe, children’s area, reading group, meeting rooms, office space and facilities for young people.

The questionnaire also includes a section on how people can get involved with Norton library from providing activities to offering training and support.

Coun Shields said: "We have ambitious plans to create a real community hub for Norton, but we need people to help to decide just what is needed.

"We therefore hope that local residents will take a few minutes to complete it and let us have their thoughts on this really important issue."

The survey can be completed online via a link on the Norton Community Library Facebook page, or by going to

https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/V3ZQKHZ

Paper copies will be delivered to each address in Norton and Rillington and should be returned to, Norton Town Council, The Old Courthouse, 84b Commercial Street, Norton on Derwent, YO17 9ES, by March 14.