A public meeting is to be held on controversial proposals to cut library services across Somerset, which include the possible closure of Highbridge Library.
As first reported by Burnham-On-Sea.com, Somerset County Council says Highbridge Library could close under its cost-cutting proposals unless local volunteers are found to keep it open.
A report considered by county councillors says the cutbacks are expected to deliver between £300,000 and £520,000 of annual savings across Somerset.
The North West Somerset Branch of the Labour Party and Bridgwater and District Trades Union Council and are unhappy at the plans and have organised a public meeting “to oppose plans that threaten Highbridge Library.”
It will take place at 7.30pm on Thursday 8th February at Highbridge Social Club in Church Street, Highbridge when all will be welcome.
Dave Chapple, Secretary of Bridgwatwer Trades Union Council, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “The aim of the meeting is to set up a local campaign group that can maximise the pressure on Somerset County Council to ensure Highbridge Library remains open as a professional and directly staffed facility.”
He adds: “It is vital that this campaign is as broadly-based as possible. We want everyone in Highbridge who cares about their library service, regardless of political affiliation, to come and take part.”
Somerset County Council says that Highbridge Library has a catchment population of 6,786 people, but it has just 288 active borrowers, and an annual footfall of 3,786 people.
