Community libraries gets council backing in Bath

Proposals to develop community libraries have been backed by Bath & North East Somerset Council who plan to keep the mobile library service operating.

The mobile library service will continue to operate and is not subject to closure, following concerns raised by the council’s scrutiny panel.

The council will also set up a network of community libraries across the area, backed by an initial investment of £275,000, tailored to local needs building on successful, independently-run community libraries in Bath & North East Somerset.

The £275,000 includes start-up funds of up to £5,000 providing books from central stock, assisting with training and providing access to a wide range of targeted community services provided by the council.

Tim Warren, council leader, said: “We have listened to people’s concerns and I want to stress the council is committed to the mobile library service because we recognise how important it is to many people who live in the more rural communities. They often rely on the wider benefits it brings around reducing isolation and being a friendly face.”

The three main libraries in Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton will all continue to be run separately from this initiative and will still be managed by the council.