'Privatisation' move agreed for local library service

Councillors were told a review of its local libraries, when considered alongside the need to trim spending, means a number could have to shut unless alternative ways can be found to run the service.

The decision by members of the council's cabinet means public talks will now begin on new ways of providing services – but the leader of Wakefield Council, Peter Box, gave a commitment that the council would continue to provide a core library service.

He said that the service may change in some ways but it would be more modern and more efficient.

"To set this review in context, we are expecting to cut our budget by around 65m over the next four years. Clearly we will have to review all our services," he added.

A report to the authority's cabinet said the Government's spending review means the council now needs to come up with potential solutions to the issues facing its library services taking into account the reduced budget – and that could mean employees, community groups and other organisations playing a role.

Council officers have recommended talking to a wide range of interested parties including town and parish councils, town centre partnerships, community groups and library user groups, library staff, other local authorities and both private and public sector organisations and partners.

The authority will now begin a month-long consultation when organisations, groups and individuals will have the chance to talk to officers about what changes they want to be involved in and to express interest in taking over services and facilities.

The council's Cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, Coun David Dagger, said: "We need to establish what, if any, level of interest there is from individuals, groups or organisations in contributing towards the running of the service."

Details about how to take part are available at libraries and on the council's website at www.wakefield.gov.uk/libraries, where there is also background information about individual services and libraries and a questionnaire to download.