Residents are being urged to get behind their local library and participate in a review of the service.

Dorset Council has launched the second phase of public consultation to inform how the authority develops and delivers the library service in the future with users and non-users all being asked to share their views.

It's all happening as the current library strategy is 11 years old. The council says it wants to know how libraries can best meet the needs of residents and communities, now and over the next ten years.

Chair of the Friends of Weymouth Library Susan Baillie is keen that local voices are heard - and said that the resort should be proud of its 'flagship' library.

She said: "Dorset Council is undergoing a second review looking at the county's library service. "They need our input on how best to serve the needs of the community.

"Weymouth should be proud of its flagship library; residents and visitors value the service and facilities. Let's not lose, but cherish them.

"I urge everyone, users and non users alike, to make your views known by completing the Let's Talk Libraries survey by 22 December.

"You can complete it online at dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/lets-talk-libraries or phone in your response to 01305 221000 or see a member of library staff who will help you complete it using their tablet device, or request a paper copy from Dorset Council or the library. There is a separate survey form for children 5-15. "

As well as book lending, library services include activities and events, reading groups, skills and learning, health and wellbeing, information provision, digital access and support, and art and cultural exhibitions. There are 23 council-run and eight community-managed libraries in the Dorset Council area.

Cllr Laura Beddow, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Culture, Communities and Customer Services said: "We want to hear from everyone, whether you are an active library user, if you have visited our libraries in the past, or if you have not visited one of our libraries before. Your views will help us to provide a modern, relevant, and sustainable service, and I encourage everyone to have their say.”