Charge brought in for library surfers

Calderdale Council is introducing charges for internet use in its 22 public libraries.

Under the new regime library users will receive their first hour of internet use free of charge, but after that will have to pay £1 per hour, or part hour. All internet usage will remain free for the over 60s, the under 16s and all Passport to Leisure card holders.

Robin Tuddenham, Calderdale Council’s director safer and stronger communities, said: “Calderdale libraries offer wonderful opportunities for people of all ages to learn and enjoy.

“I do hope this modest fee will not deter people from using the internet alongside the books, maps, CDs, DVDs and wealth of other resources available. The funds raised through the charging will allow us to keep the free first hour for everyone.”

The council, which has to save £15m this financial year, said the charges would enable the library service to protect its core services.

The income generated would go back into the service to improve its content management system, it said.