Community groups on course to take over libraries

Community groups are on course to take over the running of more than 30 county council libraries in Leicestershire within the next six months.

Last year the county council decided to invite 36 communities to manage libraries, as part of the library service’s £800,000 savings.

Following extensive consultation and support from the council, 32 groups submitted acceptable plans and three – Barrow upon Soar, Markfield, and Glenhills – are now community-run. Another group, Kirby Muxloe parish council, has submitted plans that are still being discussed. Talks are continuing with the parish council, in the hope of agreeing a community-led deal.

Three libraries - Braunstone Town, Mountsorrel and Narborough – have not submitted plans that comply with the council’s offer of support.

Leicestershire County Council said it is proposing to consult the public on possible closure and replacement with mobile libraries. Final decisions will be taken next March.

32 community groups submitted acceptable plans Credit: ITV News Central

The news comes from a report to the county council’s ruling cabinet next week.

Councillor Richard Blunt, cabinet member for libraries, said: