SEVEN village libraries will lose their staff in 12 months, a top councillor has warned.
Kirklees Council wants volunteers to take over the running of centres in Shepley, Denby Dale, Slaithwaite, Golcar, Honley, Lepton and Kirkheaton.
Clr Shabir Pandor, who is in charge of the library cuts project, has now revealed that the funding to keep paid staff at the seven libraries would run out in April 2013.
“The existing staffing will be maintained for the 2012/3 financial year,” said the council’s Cabinet member for resources.
“We cannot tell what further cuts will be imposed by the Tory/Lib Dem Government next year and what effect this will have on the service.”
But Clr Pandor added that the Labour Cabinet would try to keep all libraries open – even if some had to be run by volunteers.
“There is a long-term commitment to provide a comprehensive and efficient library service,” said the Batley West man.
“The current buildings can continue to be made available and Kirklees will continue to provide financial support for running costs – including finding alternative buildings if that proves suitable.”
Clr Pandor explained how a volunteer-run library might operate.
“We have to look at alternative ways for providing the service,” he said.
“Libraries would offer books and other media loans and public access computers for accessing the Internet.
“A book reservations and enquiry service would be provided through free phone access. Librarian support in terms of training for volunteers, stock expertise, library service advice and support for events would be provided.”
Kirklees would continue to provide:
Books and other media (existing stock, stock from other libraries and an annual budget for new titles)
Existing furniture and equipment
Public access computers
Free phone access for book reservations and enquiries.
Kirklees is consulting on the cuts plan until April 14.
There will be a public meeting about the proposals in the middle of May.
