What are the proposed changes for libraries in Devon?

Devon County Council is proposing to reduce library opening hours by approximately 30%, increase volunteer involvement, and explore community-managed libraries to reduce costs.

When does the public consultation for Devon libraries end?

The public consultation regarding the proposed changes to libraries in Devon is due to end on Sunday.

How much money is Devon County Council trying to save with these library changes?

Devon County Council is looking to reduce annual costs related to the library service by about £7 million.

Home / Business and Economy / Devon Libraries Fight Back Against Cuts

Devon Libraries Fight Back Against Cuts

19 Feb

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Summary

Devon County Council proposes reducing library opening hours by 30%.
A public consultation on library changes ends Sunday.
Council plans include community-managed libraries and volunteer involvement.

Libraries across Devon are facing potential reductions in opening hours as Devon County Council seeks to cut annual costs by around £7 million. The council is exploring measures such as increasing volunteer involvement and transitioning to community-managed libraries. These proposals include a significant cut of approximately 30% to staffed core opening hours, reducing them from over 1,294 hours per week to just over 914 hours.

A public consultation regarding the impact of these proposed changes on the 50 libraries in Devon is currently underway and is set to conclude this Sunday. Residents, including families and local groups, have voiced strong opposition, with one mother describing potential service reductions as "devastating" and a teenager highlighting libraries as vital "centres for communities."