LIBRARIES - WE MIGHT EVEN EXPAND THEM, SAY LABOUR
Published: 28 April 2011
by DAN CARRIER
LABOUR’S library chief hinted last night (Wednesday) that threatened libraries in Camden could be expanded rather than closed down.
Asked to explain herself at a full council meeting solely discussing the future of the borough’s 13 branches, she claimed she had a vision for a wider, more far-reaching service.
The library department is facing a 25 per cent budget cut but there is fresh confidence among some Labour councillors that all branches can avoid closure – far more positive language than earlier in the year.
Leisure supremo Councillor Tulip Siddiq was put on the spot after Liberal Democrats called an extraordinary all-member meeting on the subject.
She said a massive response by 6,000 people to a council survey on libraries showed the appetite to keep them open was there.
And she went further by claiming Camden’s service could be extended with e-books, homework help for children and a one-stop shop for other council services.
Labour councillors, however, rejected a motion which amounted to a pledge to keep every branch open.