Library, archives, museums and other cultural services

Tender description

The contracting authority (Southwark Council) is seeking to appoint a creative organisation to manage the operation of the culture space within Canada Water library, including the creative programme, technical infrastructure, ticketing and box office systems, licensing, PRS and other legislative requirements. The contracting authority's vision for the culture space is to secure its place in the cultural sector as a leading venue that strikes the balance between supporting experimental new work and being a viable receiving venue for more mainstream work, thus building a loyal local audience as well as attracting new audiences who want to try out the space and the experiences it creates. The successful provider will have demonstrable knowledge of running a venue, appropriate commercial expertise to maintain a financially sustainable model for the use of the spaces and the ability to operate in the current market. All staffing for operational needs are to be provided, without any further costs charged to the contracting authority. This includes management team, technicians, front of house, communications and any security staff additional to those already employed by the library. The contract provides an option for the provider to manage the café, through a commercial lease, if desired.