Libraries consultation attracts 300 responses

Final plans to modernise and remodel Bury’s libraries will be presented to the council’s cabinet on 10 July.

Consultation on Phase 2 of the restructure closed on 24 May, and 300 residents took the chance to make their views known, whether by questionnaire, email, online or by letter. Residents also took part in drop-in sessions and focus groups as part of the consultation.

There are no proposals to close libraries (although two would be relocated nearby), or reduce opening hours, and the service would continue to be run by Bury Council with access to books and a wide range of resources. A series of community hubs would be created where residents can access a range of services.

Councillor Jane Lewis, cabinet member for leisure, tourism and culture, said: “I want to thank the many people in Bury who took the time to look at our proposals and make comments on them.

“Our goal is to create a modern, sustainable library service to meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s residents, while making greater use of facilities such as the borough’s civic halls. We need to embrace new technologies such as e-books and online information, self-service technology, and co-location of services that act as community hubs.

“Everyone’s view will be taken into account when the final proposals for our libraries are drawn up.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 3 June 2013.