Library to open all year

FIFTEEN out of the 16 libraries in Rotherham will stay open after a major consultation into the future of services across the borough.

And although weekly hours at Thurcroft Library will be reduced, the library will remain open throughout the year, rather just during school terms.

The consultation saw hundreds of people taking part in events at libraries as well as focus groups and an online questionnaire. The feedback led to a number of changes to the original proposals which were agreed by the council’s Cabinet last week.

Elenore Fisher, customer and cultural services manager for Rotherham Council, said the authority had listened to what local people wanted.

She said: “These are always difficult decisions but by making these changes we feel we have ensured we can keep to our commitment to have a library within two miles of everyone and bring library services into the heart of communities.”

“The overwhelming number of consultation responses were positive about our libraries and the services we provide and it shows people do value what we do and want us to look at how we increase the range of those services.”

“We have to be realistic about the resources we have available but we are committed to promoting reading and literacy as well as looking to the future of digital technology

The changes starting in April will see the closure Kimberworth Park Library. Five libraries will increase their hours, two stay the same and seven see slight reductions.

Work, including further consultation, will continue at each library to confirm how the changes will operate.