Have your say: Moray Council invites feedback on library opening hours

Earlier this month, Full Council agreed to transform Moray’s libraries, learning centres, and heritage services. Under the new structure, libraries will operate in four tiers, with opening hours tailored to local demand: 

• Tier 1 libraries (Burghead, Cullen, Dufftown, Milnes, Tomintoul) – 10 hours per week 

• Tier 2 libraries (Aberlour, Keith, Lossiemouth) – 24 hours per week 

• Tier 3 libraries (Buckie, Forres) – 36 hours per week 

• Tier 4 library (Elgin) – 48 hours per week 

The proposed hours have been developed with input from local library user groups and staff across Moray, but community feedback is essential to make sure they meet the needs of all residents. 

The consultation runs from 12 December 2025 until 9 January 2026. This consultation also coincides with staff consultation on the new model. Results of the community feedback will be discussed with library user groups and will be shared with the wider public. The intention is to start the new opening hours from March 2026. 

There are two ways to take part: 

• Online: Complete the survey by clicking in to the relevant user group at: Sport, leisure & culture engagement hub | Moray Engage. 

• In Branch: Paper copies are available at all library branches. 

Moray Council Leader, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, said: “This is your chance to influence how our library services operate in the future and I’d encourage you to use the opportunity to influence decision making. We know not all proposals will suit everyone but we also need to be mindful that this service must be sustainable as well as meeting the evidenced demand from users.” 

For full details on the transformation of Moray’s libraries and heritage services, visit Moray Engage.