Croydon Council Emphasizes Community Focus for Four Closing Libraries
Croydon council has made a decision to withdraw funding from four libraries in the borough, but reassured residents that they have no plans to sell off these community spaces. Instead, the council aims to transform these libraries into ‘community hubs’ that will be run by residents and community groups.
Mayor Jason Perry emphasized that the buildings will remain open for the public to use as bookable spaces for events and community gatherings. While acknowledging that the closure of Bradmore Green (Coulsdon), Sanderstead, Broad Green, and Shirley libraries was a difficult decision, Mayor Perry stressed the importance of taking action to improve library services in the area.
The decision to stop funding and staffing these four libraries was met with concerns from residents, who feared that the buildings could be sold off or redeveloped. However, Mayor Perry reiterated that the council’s intention is to keep these spaces as community hubs for the benefit of the local population.
Transition to Community Hubs
The four libraries are set to cease operating their full services on November 7, with them no longer being staffed by council employees. This move follows a series of budget cuts and reduced opening hours for Croydon’s libraries since 2019, leading to a decline in usage by the local residents.
The new community hubs will offer spaces for community events, courses, and other services, although it remains unclear if they will retain book borrowing services or public computer use. The availability of these services will depend on the capacity of community groups to fund and manage them.
Croydon council has expressed its willingness to support community groups interested in taking over the operation of the hubs in the absence of council management. A consultation conducted earlier this year revealed that two-thirds of respondents opposed the closure of the libraries, indicating strong community support for these public spaces.
Public Response and Opposition
During a recent cabinet meeting, the leader of the Labour opposition, Stuart King, raised concerns about the council’s decision to close the libraries despite opposition from the community. Mayor Perry responded by highlighting the challenges faced by the current library service in meeting the needs of residents.
Mayor Perry emphasized the importance of taking action to improve library services in the area, stating that maintaining the status quo was not a viable option. He outlined plans to introduce a new outreach model that would bring library services to easily accessible community venues suggested by residents.
The physical library buildings hold significant value for the community, as evidenced by the public consultation feedback. Mayor Perry reiterated his commitment to ensuring that these buildings continue to be utilized by the community, complemented by outreach services in the affected areas.
In conclusion, Croydon council’s decision to repurpose the four closing libraries into community hubs reflects a commitment to preserving these public spaces for the benefit of local residents. While the transition may present challenges, the council’s focus on community engagement and support for grassroots initiatives demonstrates a proactive approach to maintaining access to library services in the borough.
