Across England we are seeing libraries closed and funding lost. Almost 130 public libraries have closed in 2017 in Britain while an extra 3,000 volunteers have been brought in to run remaining services, as the decade’s austerity pressures see local authorities continuing to apply swingeing cuts to budgets.
The annual survey of British libraries by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (Cipfa) has revealed a similar picture each year since 2010, with the number of branches and paid staff falling every year.
Over the last year, spending on libraries by local authorities fell by £30m to £741m. There was a net loss of 127 public libraries in England, Wales and Scotland, while 712 full-time employees lost or left their jobs and volunteer numbers increased by 3,000, to 51,394.
But together, we can reverse these cuts and ensure that British Citizens aren't denied their right to access public libraries.
That's why we need people like you to take action and support our libraries when they’re threatened. Please, join us to help us campaign for libraries across England by signing up here as a committed library supporter.
By signing up, we will keep you informed about library closures, funding cuts, actions and opportunities as well as news and information.
Showing 558 comments