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Dozens of British Libraries May CloseApproximately 50 British libraries—many in small or isolated communities—could close this year as local governments in at least six counties look for ways to cut costs or more effectively allocate funds they spend on libraries.Councilors in Devon say they plan to close 12 underused libraries and spend the savings to extend hours at larger facilities and improve mobile services. However, counties such as Lancashire and Buckinghamshire have proposed cutting services altogether, potentially saving up to £463,000 ($825,812 U.S.) and £211,651 ($377,597 U.S.) by closing nine and eight branches respectively, the London Telegraph reported January 23. The proposed closings follow a March 2005 report from a U.K. House of Commons committee that found 50% of library services as “persistently below standard” after decades of underfunding. “We are picking up from our members that this year is likely to be difficult for libraries in the local government budgets,” said Guy Daines, head of policy at the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals. “It seems things are going to be tougher this year than they have been in recent years and if necessary we shall lobby the government about it.” Strong public protest sparked by the news has already had an effect in some areas, forcing councils to consult with local residents before making any final decisions. In Buckinghamshire, the council told library supporters that they could prevent the libraries from closing by devising a plan to run them with financial support from local parishes and businesses using volunteers that would cost the council nothing, the Bucks Free Press reported January 25. “It’s no excuse that there is another library five miles away, or that they are extending opening hours somewhere else, because libraries serve a very local community,” said library advocate Tim Coates in the Telegraph. In addition, Culture Minister David Lammy plans to write to every council and urge them not to close facilities. Posted January 27, 2006. |
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