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More than 20,000 people have signed a petition against library closures in Lincolnshire, with local politicians attacking the county council's plans to shut or pass to volunteers 32 of 47 libraries and mobile libraries.
Lincolnshire County Council is hoping to save £2m from its overall budget. But protests against the cuts have been building, with a march on the County Hall planned for 13th September, and a further march planned in Lincoln city centre on 21st March.
The campaign has attracted high profile supporters, including Hollywood actress Minnie Driver and classicist Mary Beard, who told the Lincolnshire Echo: "Libraries are vitally important to people of all ages… I want to weep when I hear of libraries closing because that is one of the ways knowledge is spread and aspirations raised for people aged two or 92."
Local politicians have also expressed concern at the scale of the cuts. Marion Brighton, the Conservative leader of North Kesteven District Council said: "Libraries must remain open at all costs. They are vital for communities. If libraries were to close, it would spark a spike in anti-social behaviour and more." Meanwhile, Ria Metcalfe, the Labour leader of City of Lincoln Council said: "We are very concerned. We will make representations to the county about this."
A consultation on the library plans runs until 30th September.
The council said: "The library service needs to change if it is to remain affordable and be better tailored to local needs… Residents and organisations are being asked to step forward and lend a hand. And by getting more involved you can help create a better library service that better meets each community's individual needs."
Lincolnshire Co-Operative, a community group which already runs one library in Lincolnshire, has currently expressed an interest in maintaining services in five areas in the county.