Book borrowers to give views

Library users across the Wyre Forest district are being urged to have their say on plans to save £250,000.

The county council has been told it must make savings to remain efficient according to a financial review.

The review was done by Kentwood Associates between November and February and was aimed at saving money. It involved consultating staff, managers, the public and councillors. It may mean streamlining of management positions at Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport libraries.

This would mean when posts become empty they would not be filled.

The review recommended the use of neighbourhood consultation panels which would help local libraries determine their best opening hours.

Other suggestions include looking at the mobile library service and the potential to charge for internet access after a certain amount of free usage.

The library service could also be merged with the adult learning service allowing a reduction of management positions.

Highly successful self-service points – already in place in Bromsgrove and Malvern libraries – could also help to cut down on costs.

The cabinet will discuss the issue at a later date.

Cabinet member for adult and community services Councillor Phillip Gretton said: "There's already been a great deal of interest in the proposals that we've put forward.

"The initial feedback that we've had confirms what we already knew – that our libraries are greatly valued and play a huge part in community life.

"What we now want to see is people reading the report to see what's on the table and feed back more of their views to us." To see the financial review visit www.worcestershire.whub.org.uk/home/wcc-cs- lads-agenda-cab-item7-100507.pdf