£90,000 technology upgrade rolls out across St Helens Libraries
St Helens Borough Council is investing in a suite of new and improved technology across local libraries as part of a service wide IT refresh.
Article date: 13 March 2026
This investment is part of the council's delivery of the Borough's Library Strategy 2023-2028.
The rollout of new equipment is now underway across all seven libraries, enhancing both staff and public user experience - representing more than £90,000 in investment in the services that matter to residents.
The Library Service has been successful in securing funding from several sources to progress the refresh, including the Library Improvement Fund (LIF) and the LibraryOn Grant - both funded by Arts Council England.
The refresh includes upgraded public and staff computers running Windows 11, new mobile devices to support flexible access across library spaces, and improved counter technology to enhance staff visibility and customer service.
New self-service machine like those at St Helens Library are being rolled out to all other branches, giving residents more choice when returning and checking out books and allowing staff to engage with customers beyond the traditional counter.
Following installation at Chester Lane and Haydock libraries, two new Hublet docking stations will be available at Newton-le-Willows Library and Moss Bank Library at North Community Hub - each containing six public use tablets.
Hublets are Samsung Galaxy tablets which library users can borrow for use within the library. These devices allow residents to explore the digital catalogue, browse facilities and access online services, helping to further support digital inclusion and user flexibility.
All you need is your library card and PIN to release a Hublet for an hour's use, completely free. The Hublets are ready to browse the internet using the library's Wi-Fi and are preloaded with some commonly used apps. After use the device is returned to the docking station user data is wiped, ensuring that the Hublet is charged and ready for the next customer and user privacy is protected.
Councillor Sue Murphy MBE, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Localities, Culture and Heritage, said:
"This investment ensures our libraries remain modern, inclusive and welcoming spaces for everyone. Whether residents are accessing books, using digital services or seeking support, these improvements will enhance the experience across all our branches. We are committed to providing accessible technology that helps people to learn, connect and thrive in their local community."
Find out more about St Helens Borough Council's Library Services at https://sthelens.gov.uk/libraries