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Plans to close four Aberdeen libraries have been put on hold by the city's local authorities, according to a report in the http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/1552647" target="_blank">Aberdeen Press and Journal.
Councillors have now ordered a three-month delay before any ruling is made on the closure of libraries at Bridge of Don, Linksfield, Woodside and Ferryhill, with officials expected to go back to their communities before a final decision is made.
The announcement is said to have followed a debate-filled "11th-hour meeting" last Wednesday (6th January). Scottish National Party councillor Andy May told the newspaper: “It’s absolutely vital we get this right. We need more time to consider in depth the long-term implications.”
Opposition Labour councillor Willie Young was quoted as saying: “It is obvious that the SNP and the Lib Dems are fighting on this issue because this report has been in the pipeline for months. We welcome the move not to close any libraries as knowledge is key to any city’s success.
“Why on earth a political party running a council would bring forward proposals then drop them is beyond a joke.”
The closures were designed to save the council £270,889, and come after a two month public consultation on plans to create seven "community learning hubs" in the city. A report on the hubs is due to be considered on 15th April.