Two libraries facing closure

Stockton Borough Council is consulting on plans to close Egglescliffe Library, in Eaglescliffe, and Fairfield Library, in Stockton.

Under the proposals, Egglescliffe would close once the refurbishment of Yarm Library is complete and Fairfield would close if a partner organisation, or alternative place to house the library, cannot be found.

Conservative councillor Matthew Vickers, who represents neighbouring Hartburn on Stockton Council, said: "I am extremely disappointed with the Labour-led authority's decision to close Fairfield Library.

"This library is one of the best used libraries in the borough and enjoys the support of local people.

"Elsewhere in the country we see innovative approaches to cutting costs and saving money, sharing sites with other community facilities and working with volunteers."

In 2011 the council agreed a "library strategy" to concentrate resources on larger libraries in Billingham, Stockton, Thornaby, Yarm, Ingleby Barwick and Norton.

It is now asking residents to give their views on how library services can continue to meet the needs of local communities in light of a reduction in council budgets.

Councillor Norma Wilburn, Stockton Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Leisure and Culture said: “We understand that the library service is well-used in our local communities but a £73 million reduction for the borough as a whole leaves us with no choice but to propose changes.

“Although we face a significant budget reduction we remain committed to maintaining the best possible service with the available resources. In the last few years we have invested in several libraries across the borough, including Billingham and Stockton, to create a one-stop-shop of services and the new look Yarm Library which is less than a mile away from Egglescliffe is due to reopen in the autumn.

"We understand the value of our libraries to residents and that is why we would like to hear your views on the proposed changes."

Residents are now asked to share their views on the proposed changes. To participate in the consultation visit www.stockton.gov.uk/consultations or visit a local branch library to fill out a questionnaire.

There will also be drop-in sessions on Tuesday from 6pm to 8pm at Fairfield Library, on May 31 from 6pm to 8pm at Egglescliffe Library, on June 1 from 10am to 12pm at Egglescliffe and on June 7 from 10am to 12pm at Fairfield.

The library consultation period will last for six weeks. It begins on May 16 and will end on Friday, July 1.

For more details visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries, ask a local librarian or telephone 01642 524500.