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Somerset County Council has proposed to cut funding to 20 of its 34 libraries, while others will be offered as community projects. The council will continue to fund 14 of the most used libraries including the "hub" libraries in Taunton, Bridgwater, Frome and Yeovil. Ten of these will have self-service technology installed to reduce running costs.
All fully funded libraries, except the "hubs", will face a 10% reduction in opening hours. The number of mobile libraries would be reduced from six to two.
The council has suggested that the 20 would be community run, with the council offering advice and co-ordination, and some IT costs. Libraries who do not take the community option will close.
In a statement http://www.somerset.gov.uk/irj/public/news/directory/articles?rid=/guid/... target="_blank">online, the council said the proposals were a reaction to government cuts, and were part of an attempt to save £75 million over the next three years. The new-look service would enable a 25% saving on the current Library Service budget of £5.4m.
It added that proposals would also include investment in self-service technology, more spent on new books, and an enhanced library service to the housebound.
Councillor Christine Lawrence, cabinet member with responsibility for community services, said: "These proposals would create a Library Service that is fit to face the future, making use of new technology and with the potential to work closely with local communities. These are extremely difficult financial times and, unfortunately, tough decisions have to be made in all areas of council business, from roads to recycling and including libraries."
The public consultation will close on 14th January 2011, with the results reported on 2nd February.
Full details can be found at www.somerset.gov.uk/libraries" target="_blank">www.somerset.gov.uk/libraries along with an online survey for people to give their views.