Donaldson backs National Libraries Day – BookSeller.  “Hooray for National Libraries Day! So many wonderful things go on in libraries—not just reading, browsing and borrowing, but storytelling, rhyme times, book clubs, activity days, author events and holiday reading challenges—and this special day will be a celebration of them all.”
Future Library – BookSeller.   New “Library of Birmingham” biggest public library project in Europe, “shop window for the city and culture of the city”.  Birmingham Council says it will not close any libraries.
Women’s Institutes joins battle to save libraries – Guardian.  ““It’s fabulous news for the millions of people across the UK that love their libraries. Libraries are an essential education and information resource. They are at the heart of communities across the country and are too important to lose,” (Annie Mauger, CILIP).

Changes to Library services

Birmingham – 39 less under threat.
Islington – Guarantee no libraries will close.  10% (£600k) cut.  May be job losses, cuts in hours, more self-service.  Seriously considering turning into a Trust to save £450k p.a. in tax. 
Somerset – The four (out of six) mobile libraries to be closed are based at Minehead, Bridgwater, Taunton and Wells meaning a reduction of 206 stops.

Local News

“If you removed every single public library from the budget, it wouldn’t affect the budget crises we are trying to resolve. From a budget point of view libraries aren’t that significant. From a point of view of their contribution to a community and health of a local community, they are enormously important.” Brian Gambles, Assistant Director of Culture, Birmingham.

Islington – Library service could be run by charity trusts to save thousands in taxes – Islington Tribune.  10% (£600k) cut in Islington library service, no closures – some job losses, cuts in hours, more self-service. Turning to a Trust would save £450k per year. 
Somerset – County Council plans to cut mobile libraries – BBC. 
Wokingham – “Council consulted no-one” claim as libraries row rages on – Get Wokingham.