A PUBLIC consultation is being launched next week to get views from residents in Totnes about what they would like to see in their new library.

Last month Devon County Council announced plans to relocate the library to The Mansion in the town because the current library building is too small and unsuitable for the 21st century service the Council wants to provide.

Initial plans are now under way for the new library, which will be two and a half times bigger than the existing one, and the Council are keen to hear the community's views on how to utilise the extra space.

Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for the library service, said: "The Mansion building is conveniently located in the town centre and boasts lots more space so we can offer the modern facility that residents in Totnes require. We want to ensure the new library is designed with local needs in mind and this consultation is a key opportunity for residents to have their say and influence plans, so it’s really important everyone takes part.

"There has been long standing support from the community for improving library provision in Totnes, and I know the community are keen to be involved throughout this project, which is excellent news

"By engaging with residents we can really add value to this project and get the most out of relocating the library to this wonderful building which will hopefully reinvigorate it as a vibrant space at the heart of Totnes. I urge everyone to get involved, even if they don’t use the library at the moment, and tell us how they would like the library to look and share their ideas about the range of activities that could be offered to help us develop a facility the community can be proud of."

The survey asks people to share their ideas on how to improve the library, and also seeks to find out which services residents would like to see developed at the new site, for example a more flexible layout, a quiet reading and study area, self service machines more music and films or a teenage area. It also asks people how often they typically use the library, and what they currently use it for.

The Council has also planned some on-street surveys in the town centre shopping areas on Friday 16 December. Library staff will have a stand in the market in Civic Square from 9am until 12.30pm, where residents will be able to share their ideas about what services and activities they would like the the new library to offer. Following this, from 1.30pm until 4pm, there will be an open afternoon at The Mansion where staff will be on hand to show residents around the space where the new library will be.

Councillor Paula Black, Devon County Council Local Member for Totnes Rural, said: "Totnes has been campaigning for many years for this library and the start of the consultation will cement to the community that the reality of a modern library is not very far away.

"The Mansion will provide one of the most calm and beautiful locations to site a library, with the top floor giving views to complement the added value of books."

Questionnaires will be available at the existing library in Totnes, as well as online at www.devon.gov.uk/newtotnes. People can also email their comments to newtotnes@devon.gov.uk or phone 0845 155 1001. Completed surveys should be submitted by 31 January 2012.