LIBRARIES - WE MIGHT EVEN EXPAND THEM, SAY LABOUR

A clear message from Highgate Library user Jahleel Weisser, aged 3

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.

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