Further setbacks for Essex libraries

Proposals to enhance and improve Essex libraries were rejected today by Conservative-run Essex County Council. At today's Full Council Budget meeting, Liberal Democrats proposed a full review of library premises, to consider commercial or residential additions, which would safeguard their future, rather than threaten the closure of 44 libraries.

Under the proposal, every single library building in Essex would have been assessed to see if they could be adapted or extended for greater community use and maximising the buildings' potential.

The Liberal Democrats also proposed money to employ additional staff to promote library use, especially among children and young people.

Following the library consultation survey going offline over the weekend, the Lib Dems asked the Cabinet Member for Libraries to consider extending the consultation to Sunday 24 February, but she refused.

The Cabinet member also failed to answer a question about who wrote the library consultation

Commented Lib Dem Leader Mike Mackrory, "This will come as a great disappointment to the thousands of people who have signed the Lib Dem petition against library cuts. The Conservatives have missed a great opportunity to improve our library service."