Cllr Barry Abraham, Cabinet member for Fire, Culture and Resident Services, has today made a decision on the final stages of the review of library provision on the Isle of Wight.
He approved the decision to cease funding the libraries in Bembridge, Brighstone, East Cowes, Niton and Shanklin from today (30 September 2011).
The council has agreed to grant leases or tenancies-at-will to East Cowes Town Council, the Edward Edwards Library Ltd (for Niton), Shanklin Theatre & Community Trust and the Rural Community Council (for Bembridge and Brighstone).
The reasons given for the decision are:
- To increase community-led engagement in libraries, whilst continuing to provide a comprehensive and efficient library service on the Island.
- To deliver services in a more cost effective way by engaging with local communities and partners.
Full details are provided in the The Library Review: Concluding Stage, embedded below for your convenience.
