Camden Cabinet to Consider Proposal To Close Libraries

Camden Council have released the report that will be presented to the cabinet on the 8th of June which will influence their decision as to how the council is going to save 1.6 million pounds in the running of the borough's libraries.

    The council want the cabinet to choose one of three options that will ensure that the borough can still provide a high quality service which still meets the requirements of the residents, whilst saving the required amount.

    In addition to the proposals listed below, the cabinet is also expected to approve savings which will include the closure of the mobile library.

    The three proposals that they must choose form are as follows:

Proposal A - Working with the community and local organisations to explore alternative delivery models for Belsize, Chalk Farm and our very own Heath library. In addition, all other libraries will reduce their opening hours by 10%, fees will be increased, staff will be reduced and there will be fewer activities.

Proposal B - Belsize and Chalk Farm libraries as above, and all other libraries as above, with the exception that the opening hours will be reduced by 35%.

Proposal C - Closure of seven of the borough's libraries.

    The cabinet will make their final decision on the 8th June. Of course we'll announce it as soon as the result is made public. However, to theorize, I do worry that, although proposals A and B will keep the public happier, I imagine that proposal C is the most efficient way for the council to save the required money. It will be disappointing to hear that the cabinet has chosen that option, but it will not be all that surprising.

Photo courtesy of hashir