Reprieve for 12 smaller libraries

    I am sure you are all, like me, delighted that the Council has done a U-turn on library closures, however the  pending further investigation into library provision and 'new ways of working' is looking to produce budget savings in the future and could result in more libraries being run by volunteers.

     You may be aware of a government inquiry into the provision of library services, and whilst our smaller branches are safe for now, the fight is not over.  UNISON is preparing a submission to the Inquiry covering a five point plan  to begin a real debate on the way forward and is holding a meeting on Feb 11^th with library members from all over the country to discuss the options.  I will be attending as representative from Northumberland County so please forward any issues and contributions to me in advance.

    Public libraries are an integral part of of local public services, and should remain so. They need adequate resources and funding for services, staff and premises; empowerment of staff and communities to shape services together, provision of staff training and professional development; partnership working between libraries and councils across the UK to share information and best practice, and should reflect the society that they serve and be welcoming places to all sections of the community, firmly rooted in the locality. One of the great strengths of the library service, and a source of the trust with which it is regarded in the community is that it is not a commercial service.

       Libraries contribute to four of the government's most important policy objectives, underpinning education, providing essential support for school children, students and adult learners, enhancing public access to all kinds of knowledge and information, promoting social inclusion by helping to bridge the gap between those who can afford this access and those who cannot, and contributing to the modernisation and delivery of public services.  To rejuvenate this service requires an increase in book stock, opening hours that suit the community, libraries that are accessible and pleasant to visit, and knowledgeable staff.  Cutting hours, closing branches and reducing stock just contribute further to a decline in use.

     We need to continue to promote libraries to customers, councillors, schools, colleges, community groups and the wider local population to ensure the Council realise the value of the service and do not propose further cuts and closures in the future.

Sue Dick

UNISON Steward - Libraries