Library services for North Marston

There is a Public Consultation that has just been launched about Bucks CC proposals for changing the Library Service. The current proposals effectively amounts to a two-tier system with some libraries being maintained in something similar to their current format.

However the plans for Winslow and 13 other libraries across the County laid out in the consultation document "Get Involved: Developing Libraries for the Future in Buckinghamshire" are significantly more uncertain. The main concern is that Winslow Library will become a Community Library potentially entirely dependant upon the work of volunteers to both run the Library and "raise their own funds .... manage their own stock - through donations and purchases made with funds raised". The library would need to become a registered charity or similar body.

If you read the document "Get involved: Developing Libraries for the Future in Buckinghamshire" (available from the library) there is no real clarity as to whether you could still access the full Library stock without having to "reserve items from across the county" which involves a cost , and similar models already in operation in Bucks have their own significantly reduced stock that has been 'donated'.

There are many uncertainties with the current proposal and a very real possibility that the Library will close altogether – and the document reluctantly acknowledges this on page 7 "If we cannot find new ways to develop libraries for the future in Buckinghamshire we will have to consider closing libraries".

The plan includes a 'commitment' that the County Council will ensure 'where possible' that 'excluded and isolated residents can access library services through the home library and mobile library services'.

The concern is that nowhere is it defined who decides the parameters of where possible and that read in totality the plans could see the closure of Winslow Library and a reduction in the mobile library services, both important local services for North Marston residents.

If you are concerned about the current proposals I would suggest that you respond using a number of the ways highlighted below. The local elections are due in May 2011 and now is the time that we may be able to positively influence the outcome for North Marston residents as elected members are more aware of public concerns.

Have your say ...

  • Complete the questionnaire in "Get involved: Developing Libraries for the Future in Buckinghamshire" (available from the library)
  • Get online information at this Council website
  • Send an email
  • Phone 01296 382160
  • Write to Get Involved, Culture and Learning, FREEPOST RRKT-ALAX-EBAY, The Gallery Suite, County Hall, Aylesbury HP20 1UZ.