Libraries could shut for a day in bid to save cash (From Thurrock Gazette)

Libraries could shut for a day in bid to save cash

3:55pm Tuesday 4th August 2009

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THREE Thurrock libraries could be closed all day on Friday of each week.

A consultation process has begun on whether Thurrock Council should close Aveley, East Tilbury and Blackshots libraries on Fridays.

As part of the budget-setting process for 2009/2010, the council endorsed Cabinet’s recommendation that savings of £53,000 would be made by reducing library opening hours, reducing the book-fund and cutting the training budget.

Officers have looked at a range of options regarding reducing hours and have recommended that the least disruption to library services across the borough centred on the half day opening, one day a week at three of its smaller libraries.

Customer numbers are low and many customers are confused about which half of the day is involved.

It is proposed to close Aveley, East Tilbury and Blackshots libraries for a whole day instead of a half day.

The council’s portfolio holder for Libraries, Cllr Joy Redsell, said: “No-one wants to reduce library opening hours. I know how much Thurrock residents value their excellent library services.

“However, in line with other authorities, budgets are very tight and savings have to be made.

“This proposal is the ‘least-worst’ of the options available. No final decision has yet been made and consultations have to be carried out.”

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