Cuts to library services to be discussed

Shropshire's six main libraries could have their opening hours cut and two other libraries could close under plans due to be discussed by councillors.

There is also a proposal to end Shropshire Council's mobile library service.

The local authority, which is due to receive £192.8m from the government to help it keep running, said it was having to look at the services in light of "significantly reduced financial resources".

A final decision is expected in spring 2027.

The six principal libraries, which are based in Shrewsbury, Oswestry, Ludlow, Market Drayton, Bridgnorth and Whitchurch, would see their opening hours cut to 30 hours per week under the plans.

The two libraries which could close are at the Lantern Centre in Shrewsbury and Gobowen near Oswestry.

In both cases, the council said there were alternative libraries nearby.

It said the mobile library service, which operates three vans, was under threat because its costs were "relatively high compared to the average costs of the static libraries".

The council said it accepted libraries were important to the community and it would speak to town and parish councils, plus community and voluntary groups.

But its research showed "the demand for libraries is changing and the council needs to demonstrate that it is keeping the service relevant for the existing population".

If cabinet agrees to move forward with the proposals on 18 November, the plans will be put to a 12-week public consultation.

Shropshire's library service currently includes 21 libraries, some run by community groups or by town or parish councils.

It is also responsible for the prison library at Stoke Heath prison and a digital library service, plus the mobile service and a home library delivery service.

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