Future of your Library - consultation ends 13 June

[geoff parcell]

Anyone with an interest in Somerset’s libraries has one more month to take part in the County Council’s consultation on the future of its Library Service.

The consultation ends on Wednesday 13 June and more than 4,000 responses have been received so far.

Somerset County Council is keen for anyone yet to complete the questionnaire to go online at www.somerset.gov.uk/librariesconsultation, view the proposal on the future of the library they visit most often and give their feedback. Alternatively, complete the survey at your local library.

Decision makers want to know the impact potential changes to the library service would have on you, your family and communities. It also provides an opportunity to comment on the proposals and make alternative suggestions.

Councillor David Hall, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries, said: “With just a month to go before the library consultation ends, I encourage anyone who has yet to have their say to complete a questionnaire and make their voice count. It’s important to us as many people as possible tell us their views on our proposals and how they may affect them before we make our final decision.”

A final decision on Somerset’s library service is expected later this year.

The proposals show that for 12 libraries, there will be no change to the delivery of library services. These libraries include Bridgwater, Burnham-on-Sea, Chard, Frome, Glastonbury, Langport, Minehead, Taunton, Wells, Williton, Wincanton and Yeovil.

•           For 15 libraries, community support may be required to keep library buildings open. These include Bishops Lydeard, Bruton, Castle Cary, Highbridge, Milborne Port, Nether Stowey, North Petherton, Porlock, Priorswood (Taunton), Somerton,South Petherton, Street, Sunningdale (Yeovil), Watchet and Wiveliscombe.

•           The proposals also highlight that seven library buildings may remain unchanged or may require community support to remain open. These include Cheddar, Crewkerne, Dulverton, Ilminster, Martock, Shepton Mallet and Wellington.