No plans for library closures
THERE are no plans to close any libraries in Central Beds, campaigners have been told.
Councillor Brian Spurr, executive member for sustainable communities, services confirmed that all libraries will remain open at a meeting of Central Bedfordshire Council’s executive last Tuesday (August 23).
Mr Spurr and other members of the executive were presented with a Save Our Libraries petition containing more than 150 signatures by residents who have been campaigning against potential closures.
Potton Town Councillor Andy Hopkins and former Biggleswade Town Councillor Sheila Grayston launched paper and e-petitions last month after Central Beds Council started analysing feedback gleaned from its Big Library Debate.
The initiative saw library users being asked for their views on libraries and what they would like to see in the future.
At the meeting Sheila handed over the petition after giving a presentation appealing to councillors not to close any libraries.
Sheila said: “The thing about libraries is that they are not just about borrowing books.
“They play an important social role, and are very much like a local post office for many people, especially those living in rural areas.”
Sheila and Andy are also concerned that library opening hours could be shortened and volunteers will replace paid staff.
Andy said: “We are pleased that there will be no closures but we really do not want to go down the same route as Buckinghamshire where our libraries are run by volunteers.
“It is important to have professional staff who have proper experience.”
Mr Spurr said: “Following the Big Library Debate consultation, we have had more than 1,500 responses and we are taking the time to analyse the feedback to ensure the future direction of the service has taken into account the public’s views.
“We are currently working to develop proposals to improve the quality and range of services that the library can provide, and the public will have the opportunity to comment on these options later in the autumn.”
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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SaraT
Friday, September 2, 2011 at 10:17 AMIt's great to hear that the council won't be closing any libraries...but hopefully the council realises that not only do the libraries need to stay open but they also need to have long opening hours, knowledgeable paid staff and plenty of new books.
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