Suffolk, Lambeth and free food

Editorial

The reaction to the move by Suffolk to cancel its long-running contract with Suffolk Libraries has been happening this week. More than 15,000 have signed a petition against the move and the councillor in charge has been online defending the decision, with Suffolk Libraries answering back. It’s highly unusual for such disagreements to be made public and shows the strength of feeling on the issue.

Also strong on feeling were the protests against Lambeth’s decision to cut £1 million from its library service. The council is being cagey about how it is going to do this without closing branches or reducing opening hours, which are the two things it has guaranteed it won’t be doing. So the alternatives are: cutting staff, giving away libraries to other providers (which will be may involve cutting staff), cutting book fund, cutting staff by replacing them with staff-less technology and, finally, cutting staff.

More positively, Wakefield have decided due to weight of public opinion not to cut its library budget and also there’s been some fun initiatives announced. This includes donation point for old bras, safety testing for electric blankets and loaning out sensory equipment for those with autism. There’s also a list of green initiatives from the USA, with the one that stood out to me being “community fridges”. This is something that happens in the UK too, with Devon having several, stocked by charities with supermarket food that would otherwise go to waste. Which is great for the public and the library, not just because it increases footfall and environmental impact but also, more importantly, the staff may get a free doughnut occasionally. Frankly, I feel we should start a campaign to have one in every library.

Changes by local authority

• Dorset – Staff-less library hours at Verwood.
• Edinburgh – Rotho Library reopens
• Lambeth – £1 million cut (20%) confirmed, no closures or opening hours cuts.
• Telford and Wrekin – Wellington town council takes over library: six out of eight libraries now run by town/parish councils.
• Wakefield – Cuts to opening hours cancelled.
• Wirral – £250,000 cut

National news

• Beloved children’s author Michael Rosen on the importance of reading this World Book Day, as he unveils donated libraries at 14 hospitals across the UK – London News.
• A cornerstone of British way of life is disappearing before our eyes, something needs to be done – Yahoo News. ” student Evie Harman explains why we must fight to keep our libraries.”
• Getting Started on Bluesky – UKeiG. Friday 21 March, online. “There is an opportunity for libraries and other organisations to get in on the ground floor and help reach the audience and communities assembling on Bluesky. This course will help you hit the ground running, and use Bluesky strategically, creatively, and effectively.”
• History of Scotland’s Libraries Explored in New Exhibition – Historic Environment Scotland. “Libraries play a vital part of Scotland’s social history, from the Wanlockhead Miner’s Library established in 1756 which aimed to encourage ‘self-improvement’ in the local mining community, to Edinburgh’s Central Library, opening in 1890 and the first public library building in the city. “
• Libraries Connected Awards 2025: Shortlists – Libraries Connected. Reading: social exclusion, play reading, schools, learning disabilities, prison, Chatterbooks. Information and Digital: mainly about inclusion including device lending, training; also local history. Children’s: schools, innovation, facing budget cuts, neurodiverse, involving children in library decision-making, a volunteer. Vision and Print Impairment: children’s stock, focused offer, braille, accessible resources, meet-ups, passion. Health and Wellbeing: NHS partnership, wool crafts, neighbourhood project, reading group, service above and beyond, staff training. Culture and creativity: events, mobile events, innovative events, partnerships, creative space, passion.
• Town hall leaders condemn ‘ill-thought-out’ plan to merge English councils – Guardian. “Nearly two-thirds (63%) of councils said they planned to reduce spending on services from April. The areas most commonly sought out for cuts were parks and leisure centres, local business support, arts and culture, adult social care, and libraries.”
• Unison spending survey / tell us how council cuts have affected you – Unison. “We’re launching a new survey for council workers. Please share your experiences of the impacts of council cuts to help us make the case for an urgent funding increase and long term settlement. “

International news

• Netherlands – More libraries are offering free membership to the over-18s – Dutch News. “Libraries are already free for schoolchildren but some 40% of local councils have now extended the measure to some groups of adults, mainly people in their 20s, broadcaster NOS reported. “Libraries want to spread the message that anyone who is still studying or has just finished their studies is welcome to use the library for free,” researcher and librarian Mark Deckers said. By the end of the last century libraries had some 2.3 million, mostly paying, customers. That number has almost halved to 1.2 million”
• USA – Let’s Keep Libraries Open Longer – American Enterprise Institute. “The New York City public library system has over 200 branches scattered throughout the metropolis, but only 21 libraries are open seven days a week. In a recent surprise announcement, New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams proposed additional funding to the city’s libraries, expanding seven-day service to 10 additional library branches citywide. While a small change, this is still great news.”
  • 27 Sustainability Ideas to Implement Right Now – American Libraries. Clothing swaps, community fridge, seed library …
  • Tech Strategies Strengthen Libraries Facing Challenging Times – Information Today. “Universal goodwill toward libraries can no longer be taken for granted. In these times, libraries need to take actions to reinforce their positions within the communities they serve to strengthen public perceptions. “

Local news by authority

• Aberdeen – Central Library to host North East poets celebration – Aberdeen Council. ” a special World Book Day evening of poetry and music”
• Blackpool – Blackpool libraries to host live music and theatre performances – Lancs Live. “unding from Libraries Connected and the Arts Council is being used to put on shows at Anchorsholme, Moor Park and Layton libraries in partnership with Lancashire’s Rural and Library Arts Touring Scheme Spot On Lancashire.”
• Brighton and Hove – Library honours 20th anniversary on World Book Day – BBC. 20th anniversary of Jubilee Library. “According to the local authority, Jubilee Library received 830,274 visits and loaned 218,720 items in the year 2023/24.”
• Cheshire West and Chester – Designs for updated Northwich Library building to go on view – Northwich and Winsford Guardian. ” a session where library staff and the design team working on the project will be on hand to explain more about the work that has already taken place, share images of the new look library, and answer questions.”
• Coventry – Innovative sensory library project launches in Coventry – Coventry Council. “The library features a range of sensory equipment such as noise cancelling headphones, weighted lap pads and various sensory lights that can be borrowed free of charge with a library card. The sensory library is predominately aimed at adults with autism but is available for anyone to use.”
• Cumberland – Library to reopen as £3.3m revamp continues – BBC. “Cumberland Council has now confirmed one floor of the building will reopen on Monday, while a second will remain closed for refurbishment.”
• Devon – Devon residents asked how they use the Seaton Library – Midweek Herald. “This is to help plan the new library space at the Marshlands Centre on Harbour Road. The move, announced in January, is a joint decision by Devon County Council and Seaton Town Council. It aims to cut running costs and secure the library’s future”
  • Devon / Torbay – Devon & Torbay Libraries generate millions – Exeter Today. “New figures released by Libraries Unlimited, the charity responsible for running the region’s 54 libraries, reveal that in 2023/24, library services contributed £23.9 million in social value.” … “In a sector-first initiative, Libraries Unlimited partnered with Impact Reporting to develop a bespoke measurement framework that quantifies the wellbeing impact of library services. The system evaluates how libraries enhance mental resilience, reduce inequalities, improve digital skills, and inspire creativity.”
  • Libraries to close for staff conference – Dawlish Gazette. Libraries Unlimited staff conference.
  • The top ten borrowed books from Devon’s libraries – Teignmouth Post. Cleeves, Child and Osman.
• Dorset – New chapter for Dorset libraries – Dorset Council. “Membership allows entry outside normal opening hours and access to most services beyond staffed hours.”
• East Riding – Sessions at Bridlington and other East Riding libraries for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) families – Bridlington Echo. “cabinet member for children, families and education said: “The launch of SEND focused family sessions across our libraries will provide valuable support for families, in locations that are convenient to them, and in community focused venues.”
• Edinburgh – New Ratho Library opens its doors and unveils special artwork – Edinburgh Council. “The new Ratho Library has officially opened its doors to the public as it moves into its permanent location after closing its doors in 2020 and serving as a mobile service since 2021. The opening celebration includes the unveiling of a special artwork inside the library, showcasing a quote chosen by the local community.”
• Guernsey – New library app aims to make borrowing books even easier – Guernsey Press. “As well allowing people to renew their book loans from home, it also lets them check books out straight off the shelves, avoiding the need to queue for the machines downstairs.vAdam Bayfield, the library’s head of marketing and customer services, said parents with young children should find this particularly useful since they can scan books – up to 12 per library card holder – and leave, without having to keep an eye on children while checking the books out.”
• Hertfordshire – Poet Laureate visits Letchworth Library as centenary celebrations begin – Hertfordshire Council. “An audience of local library users and students from Fearnhill School in Letchworth, who study Simon’s poems for GCSE English Literature, enjoyed readings from the visiting Laureate, alongside guest poet Cia Mangat who runs the national Poetry Society’s Young Poets Network. “
• Lambeth – Council waves through £1m cut to library budget despite fierce opposition – London News Online. “Lambeth Labour councillors approved the more than one fifth reduction to the 2025/26 libraries budget at a meeting on Wednesday.” … “The Labour-run council has confirmed no libraries will close as a result of the savings package and opening hours will remain the same.” … “But the council has not said where the £1million in savings will come from”

• Campaign group protests Lambeth libraries funding cut – Arts Professional. “Campaign group Friends of Lambeth Libraries says that before the cut, the council’s budget for libraries had barely changed since 1984. It added the standstill funding already represented a loss of a third when adjusted for inflation.”
  • How shameful that Lambeth Council is marking World Book Day with library cuts – Independent. Subscription paywall.
  • Lambeth library cuts: Lib Dems slam last minute announcement – Lambeth Liberal Democrats (press release). ““It was beyond disgraceful that the Friends of Lambeth Libraries were given such a poor response to their passionate and articulate deputation at the budget full council meeting. Lambeth Labour went further in their speeches to claim how they were investing in and supporting libraries, yet they failed to mention the £1 million cut. In fact, they recently posted on social media, praising how wonderful their library provision is. Only Lambeth Labour would have the audacity to do this”

• Lancashire – Friends groups help improve Lancashire’s library services – Lancashire Telegraph. “There are now almost 40 established groups across the county, some of which have been running for more than a decade. They help to support the libraries and enhance what they have to offer. Many of the groups have raised money to hold events or improve outdoor areas, both through fundraising and applying for grants.Friends of Savick Library, which was recently reopened, applied for funding to enable them to be able to show films, while Chorley Library has hosted local bands and other talent.”
• Lincolnshire – Bra banks launched to support cancer research – BBC. “Bra banks have been set up at libraries across Lincolnshire in partnership with the charity Against Breast Cancer. Donated bras are sent for textile recovery, giving them a new lease of life and raising money for work on research, including secondary spread cancer.”
• Manchester – Libraries Report 2025 – Manclibraries Blog.
• Norfolk – Free electric blanket testing at libraries across Norfolk – Norfolk Council. “Norfolk County Council Trading Standards and Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service will be holding these drop-in sessions at libraries across the county, so people can have their electric blankets tested by an expert free of charge and stay safe and warm.”
• Northumberland – Spring into culture with Northumberland Libraries – Northumberland Council. “From theatre performances to hands-on crafting sessions, Northumberland Library Service offers something for everyone to enjoy in the coming months – with families invited to take part in craft activities at libraries across Northumberland during half term week. There’ll also be plenty of opportunities to spring into nature at Hexham Library, including a half term planting party on February 27 and an introduction to ‘Forest Bathing’ on March 14.”
• North Yorkshire – Mobile library stops set to double – BBC. “The van currently makes 21 stops every month but North Yorkshire Council plans to increase it to at least 40 in the region. Money from the government’s Libraries Improvement Fund will be used to replace the existing mobile library with a smaller and more versatile van.”
• Nottingham – City library marks 100 years of serving community – BBC. Meadows Library “The library, first opened on 11 March 1925, has stood the test of time and survived the threat of cuts to public services.” … “There’s a really special feeling about Meadows Library. There’s a fantastic community feel.”
  • Nottingham: Call for safety checks at library site with ‘dangerous paving’ – West Bridgford Wire. “Failing tiles on steps leading to a new library and supermarket in Nottingham have prompted a call for a health and safety investigation. Work was carried out on steps outside Sherwood Library and a Sainsbury’s store in Spondon Street in February, after tiles began to crack and break away. The problem has since been fixed, however a resident is calling for further investigation into the safety of the site.”
• Nottinghamshire – New Library of Things offers help in ‘tough times’” – BBC. “The service will allow people to borrow household items, rather than books, such as carpet cleaners, sewing machines, and children’s party sets.” … “The project has received funding from the Beeston Civic Society and Broxtowe Borough Council to help with the purchase of items – totalling £1,500.”
• Oldham – A new chapter for the Old Library – Oldham Council. “The exhibition is titled “New life in an old building” and is a celebration of the skilful restoration of this Victorian gem. As preparations continue to reopen the Old Library later in 2025, this exhibition acts as a taster of what is to come.”
• Oxfordshire – Council’s home library service receives positive feedback from users – Oxford Mail. “The vast majority of people who use Oxfordshire County Council’s home library service are overwhelmingly pleased with the service they receive. This is according to feedback from a recent survey which was sent to 175 customers visited by library staff.”
• Salford – Council issues statement on cuts to Salford’s libraries and leisure centres amid finance problems – Manchester Evening News. “Library and leisure centre staff in Salford will not be cut and opening hours will not be affected, despite the operator facing major financial problems, Salford council has said.” … “Salford City Council today agreed to bail out the company with a one-off payment of £350,000 to cover management costs this year, but more cash could be needed as soon as next year to the tune of £1.5m.”
• Stockport – Vacancy: Neighbourhood Library Manager – Stockport Council. “Stockroom’s Library Manager will support the development of bold, ambitious and creative and inclusive Library offer at Stockroom. “
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries row continues as petition hits 15,000 – Ipswich Star. Subscription paywall. “A show of defiance is set to place this weekend with protests against Suffolk County Council’s plans to bring the library service back in-house.” see also Suffolk Libraries row continues as petition hits 15,000 – East Anglian Daily Times. Subscription paywall, looks to be same article.
  • 5,000 sign petition against planned libraries move – BBC. “The charity said that even if opening hours were maintained under a return to council control, the services on offer could be reduced. This is because contracts being run with other bodies would not transfer to the council and services including prison libraries and literacy projects could be lost. The council responded by saying it would apply for the same grants to keep non-core library services open, with the potential of some contracts being replaced.”
  • Bungay Community Library to close for nearly a week this month as renovation nears completion – Suffolk News. Registration paywall.
  • Drama escalates on libraries takeover as conflicting claims made by Suffolk County Council and Suffolk Libraries – Suffolk News.
  • Opinion: Let’s be clear on the facts about our plan for libraries – Suffolk Council. “Some people have spoken out about Suffolk Libraries having limited notice of our proposal before it was made public. It’s quite hard to see why they didn’t see this coming. Weeks earlier, Suffolk Libraries flatly rejected our final offer of a direct contract award. We were even writing back and forth about this possibility. What did they think would happen next? That we would simply accept their demands for ever more money and agree to reduce library opening times?” … “We will not bail out Suffolk Libraries’ back-office costs with taxpayer money, and we will not place our precious library service in the hands of anyone we cannot trust is financially competent or viable.” …
  • Suffolk County Council hits back at criticism over libraries – East Anglian Daily Times. Subscription paywall. “There’s been some eye-popping adjectives used to describe how Suffolk County Council is acting decisively to keep libraries open and accessible to the communities that rely on them.”

• Suffolk MP calls libraries takeover decision appalling – East Anglian Daily Times. “Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, MP for Suffolk Coastal, addressed Lucy Powell, leader of the House of Commons, during debates on Thursday and said Suffolk Libraries, the previous provider, had “saved” the service from cuts under the previous Tory government. She added the company, set up to run libraries after the council divested the service in 2012, had expanded the institution when similar facilities were closing down across the country.”. Councillor says ““I fail to see anything “appalling” in this outcome for Suffolk’s library service, which has also been supported by Unison and local residents who want certainty and security for frontline staff and maintaining access to 45 library sites and the mobile library fleet serving our local communities.”

• Telford and Wrekin – Town council takes over community library – BBC. “An agreement, which comes into effect from 1 April, will see Wellington Library services and staff transfer from Telford & Wrekin Council to the town council. “With over 3,000 registered users and over 66,000 items borrowed per year, it’s clear that Wellington Library is much-valued,” town council clerk Karen Roper said.” … “Six other libraries in the borough are already being run in partnership with town and parish councils, with just two, at Southwater and Oakengates, still run by Telford & Wrekin.”
• Thurrock – Stories come to life in Thurrock Libraries for World Book Day – Thurrock Council. “Across the borough, libraries hosted story times, arts and crafts, and staff joined in the dress-up fun.”
• Wakefield – Wakefield Council U-turn on plans to cut opening times at museums, libraries and castles after feedback – Yorkshire Evening Post.
• Walsall – Walsall celebrates World Book Day with literary favourites and fun performances – Walsall Council.
• Warwickshire – Warwickshire Libraries staff who deliver the service’s Chatterbooks programme shortlisted for Libraries Connected award – Warwickshire Council. ” for delivering the Chatterbooks for Reluctant Readers programme and going over and above to promote reading for pleasure and support local schools. The programme is aimed at engaging with school children who may otherwise never attend their local library.”
• West Sussex – West Sussex libraries centenary: what is your favourite book? – Sussex World. “With West Sussex libraries celebrating their centenary this year, we have invited some of our 2025 librarians to tell us about their favourite book. “
• Wiltshire – Wiltshire Council’s library strategy published – Wiltshire Council. “A high proportion of older people use library services and demand is predicted to increase in the coming years, just as the county’s ageing population does. The library service is ensuring it can support the council’s prevention agenda and help reduce demand for council health and wellbeing services.” … “2024 was a successful year for the library service with both items loaned and visits exceeding the previous year by 6.5% and 8.5% respectively. The installation of new meeting pods in larger libraries, supporting residents to attend online interviews with prospective employers, support organisations and other council teams, has been very well received. With an additional investment of £50,000 in book stock and the delivery of a £30,000 Arts Council funded Reading Roadshow of author events, the benefits of reading for pleasure are at the front and centre of service delivery.”
• Wirral – Update on future of libraries as possible closures loom – Liverpool Echo. “The local authority plans to save £250,000 in its library service over the next two financial years” … “So far, a tight lid has been kept on what the council plans to do” … “Cllr Lewis referred to a “wave of asset transfers” when asking non-profit Wirral CVS about support for organisations that may want to take over a library. Despite the planned cuts to the service, it was revealed the council still had over £200,000 available in a separate budget to spend on library buildings.”