Moray libraries won’t close - but some could be moved into schools
Moray Council will not close any libraries – but it may yet move some into schools then sell the buildings.
The local authority met behind closed doors on Wednesday afternoon to discuss the future of seven of its 11 libraries – Fochabers, Lossiemouth, Burghead, Cullen, Dufftown, Keith and Tomintoul. It has subsequently released a statement saying that the proceeds raised from any sales would be ring-fenced for the library service.
The statement added: “There will be no reduction of opening hours and council staff will work with communities to review opening hours across all 11 branches, to ensure local need is met.
“They’ll report back to full council in August on any proposed changes to ensure consistency and that hours are aligned to usage.”
Before the meeting a group of campaigners gathered outside the council meeting to restate their continuing opposition to any closures or cutbacks to the service.
Afterwards, in response to the council’s announcement, Georgina Baker, a Portknockie resident who’s a regular user of Cullen Library, said: “We are very happy – it’s a big win.
“I want to thank in particular those among the councillors who fought for no library cuts.
“But Save Moray’s Libraries are planning to keep campaigning. We will focus on having input in the new public consultation about the library service redesign.
“In particular, we want to protect our libraries from 'co-location’ [being moved into schools], which we feel is detrimental both to library users and to schoolchildren. Both groups deserve separate, safe and inclusive spaces.”
The council announced in November that the seven libraries were under threat due to a need to make savings.
A subsequent public survey surrounding the closure proposals attracted 2219 responses, with two-thirds of people saying they used library facilities at least once a month.
A total of 92.2% of respondents stated their purpose for visiting was the traditional reason of borrowing and reading books. Meanwhile, almost 44% said it was to use a computer, a printer or wifi, while events and activities attracted nearly 40%.
Kathleen Robertson, Moray Council’s leader, said: “We’ve always said public input on consultations is vital and we’ve shown with this decision that we do listen and take the views of residents on board.
“However, the fact of the matter is we still need to transform our library services as part of our vision for the future and to make sure it’s a sustainable offering for the council.
“I’m pleased we were able to reach a consensus across the chamber with this decision and I hope local residents will continue to engage with the council to help continue to develop a sustainable service for the future.”
Moray’s other four libraries – Elgin, Forres, Buckie and Aberlour – were not included back in November amongst the threatened closures.
