Views sought about future of Shifnal Library
Shifnal Town Council has agreed to take over the running of Shifnal Library – if the plans get a positive response from the local community.
Under the plans, Shifnal Town Council would lease the library from Shropshire Council, and run it on Shropshire Council’s behalf. Opening hours would remain the same and Customer Services hours would be extended. Library staff would become staff members employed by Shifnal Town Council.
The proposals would also see Shifnal Town Council take over the running of the Customer Service Point, which is located at the library and provides people with face-to-face information and advice about council services.
A public consultation is launched today (Monday 14 September 2015) running through to Monday 26 October 2015 to ask people for their views on the proposed changes.
Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for libraries, said:
“It’s been well reported that we need to make significant savings from our library budget.
“However, Shropshire’s libraries are a vital and integral part of our local communities and we’re working extremely hard with our partners to find ways that will enable our libraries to remain open and continue to provide a valuable service to the people of Shifnal and the surrounding area for generations to come.
“We’re pleased that Shifnal Town Council is keen to take over the running of Shifnal Library on our behalf, and we very much look forward to hearing people’s views on these proposals.”
Coiuncillor Robert Harrop, Shifnal Town Mayor, added:-
“This is an opportunity for the councils to safeguard the library services for the residents of Shifnal, as well as providing an excellent office environment for the staff of Shifnal Town Council which is accessible and welcoming for all Shifnal residents.”
Comments on the proposed changes can be submitted on the Shropshire Council website at shropshire.gov.uk/get-involved – where more information about the plans can also be found. Information and surveys are also available from Shifnal Library Customer Service Point, Shifnal Town Council offices, and Katrina’s in the high street.
The closing date for replies is Monday 26 October 2015.
Meanwhile, Shropshire Council is to install a direct Freephone link from Shifnal Library to the Shropshire Council’s customer service centre, and install a public computer that people can use to access council services and other information online.
