UK authors rally to save Essex libraries

In the UK, authors including David Walliams, Jacqueline Wilson and David Baddiel are supporting a campaign to save libraries in Essex, reports the Bookseller.

Of the 74 libraries in Essex County, the Tory-controlled council has proposed shutting 25, handing 19 to community organisations and running 15 in a partnership. The council has blamed a slump in use for the proposed cuts, claiming loans have halved in the past 10 years and that fewer than a fifth of residents use the service.

Ahead of a planned protest this weekend, Save Our Libraries Essex organiser Andy Abbott said: ‘It is great to get the backing of such big names, who have also contributed much to children’s literature and British culture. We are now looking to make our family friendly protest on Saturday the biggest the county has seen in decades, to send the message loud and clear. Essex says no to this act of cultural vandalism.’

A council spokesperson said no decision about any libraries has been made yet, with a final recommendation to be made later this year.

Category: Library news International