Proposals to reduce library opening hours in Coleraine

Last week, Libraries NI announced plans to consult on reducing opening hours in its 14 busiest libraries.

A public consultation will be held from 17 May to 17 July to identify the most suitable pattern of hours in the 14 libraries concerned. It is proposed that the opening hours in the 14 busiest libraries will be reduced from 54 and 50 hours to 45 hours accordingly.

The reduction in library opening hours forms part of an overall package of savings that Libraries NI needs to implement to help meet current budget demands.

Commenting on the cuts Chief Executive of Libraries NI Irene Knox said: “This is not the ideal situation however we must plan for and consider our budget for the year ahead. We will continue to liaise with staff, customers and stakeholders throughout this process and we will listen to any concerns raised. If our circumstances change, and additional funding is made available, then it will be used to minimise the reductions in library opening hours.”

For info:librariesni.org.uk .