Libraries and archives
Local library provision, access to information and stewardship of Greenhaven archive material.
In this section
- Join the library — Membership and joining information.
- Renew or reserve an item — Loans, renewals, reservations and library accounts.
- Find a library — Locations, opening times and accessibility information.
- Using Greenhaven libraries — Borrowing, digital resources and library access.
- Archives and local history — Collections, research and local records.
- Archive enquiries and copies — Enquiries, copies and research services.
On this page
- Library provision
- Access to information and learning
- Archives and local records
- Collections and digital access
- Future locations and opening arrangements
Library provision
Libraries are part of Greenhaven Council’s local government responsibilities. The purpose of the service is to provide a dependable local route to reading, information, learning and community use. A Greenhaven library service will be designed around the needs of the local area rather than treated simply as a room containing books.
When the library service opens, this section will list the services actually available in Greenhaven, including physical and digital collections, reference information, account services, events and community use where provided.
Access to information and learning
The library service will cover access to reading, information and learning. When it opens, you will be able to find borrowing information, help and reference services, digital resources and the access arrangements for different types of material on the library pages.
Archives and local records
Greenhaven Council is also responsible for archives within its local remit. Archive work is concerned with preserving records and material of lasting value, keeping appropriate information about provenance and context, and making material available for research or public understanding where access is lawful.
The archive function is distinct from ordinary council records management. Routine administrative records are maintained because the council needs them to carry out its work and remain accountable; archive material is retained because it has continuing historical or evidential value.
Collections and digital access
Where Greenhaven Council holds library or archive collections, the public catalogue or holdings information will describe what is available and how it can be accessed. Digital resources, physical collections and facilities will be listed separately where the access arrangements differ.
Future locations and opening arrangements
No Greenhaven Council library building, archive location, opening hours, membership scheme or borrowing arrangement is currently published because the council has not commenced. This page will carry those details once locations, collections and operating arrangements are formally in place.
Local cultural service
Greenhaven’s library and archive functions form part of the local cultural service. Local cultural services can include libraries, archives, local history collections, documentary collections, public learning, exhibitions and public information about those services. National cultural policy and national collections remain with the national bodies responsible for them.
Library information
Before Greenhaven’s library service opens, the council will publish the actual library locations and opening hours, how membership works, what material can be borrowed, loan and renewal arrangements, reservations where offered, any fees and charges, accessibility information and how to contact the service. If digital books, audio, magazines, newspapers or reference resources are provided, the site will explain how to use them and whether membership is required.
Archive and local history information
The archive service will explain what collections are held, how to search or browse the holdings information, how to make an enquiry, and how to obtain copies or research support where those services are offered. Local archive material can include documentary collections and local history material, while national public records and national archival leadership remain with The National Archives.
Who is responsible
| Organisation | Role affecting Greenhaven |
|---|---|
| Greenhaven Council | Local library and archive delivery, local history and documentary collections, public learning and public information about the local service where those functions are provided. |
| Department for Culture, Media and Recreation | National policy for culture, libraries, archives, museums and heritage. |
| Havenstead Library | National library, documentary and reference collections, public knowledge and national library sector leadership where assigned. |
| The National Archives | National public records, archival preservation, documentary heritage, archival advice and sector leadership. |
| Arts Council Havenstead | Development, advocacy, support, funding, accreditation and designation functions for museums and libraries where assigned. |
Events and learning
Where the council runs reading groups, talks, exhibitions, workshops or other public learning activity, each listing will state the organiser, date, time, venue, accessibility information, whether booking is required and any charge. Past events may remain in an archive where there is a continuing public record value, but they will be clearly marked as closed.