The Bookseller.com

20th November 2008

« Headlines

Greenwich denies library closures

07.10.08 Benedicte Page

A row has broken out in Greenwich over proposals to close four libraries in the borough that were attached in error to a council agenda. Opposition councillor Dermot Poston accused Greenwich council of a "lack of democracy" after plans to close Charlton House, Coldharbour, Ferrier and Abbey Wood libraries were circulated ahead of a best value review meeting on the library service held last week.

Councillor Poston said: "It is clear that decisions have already been taken and we've been called on to make observations when a policy is already in place." He added that public libraries were in danger of becoming a "Cinderella" service due to lack of funding.

A statement from Greenwich council said: "No proposals for library closures were under discussion, and an appendix that was mistakenly included alongside the agenda was withdrawn. This appendix forms no part of any decision-making process. Greenwich council is committed to its library service and to consulting library users over any changes to the service."

Council leader Chris Roberts told the Evening Standard there were no plans to shut libraries but admitted that council investment in three major library hubs in Eltham, Woolwich and Greenwich could eventually lead to changes.

Benedicte Page libraries Greenwich