VITAL talks to try and save two village libraries in Huddersfield start on Monday.

Honley and Shepley Libraries are inviting the community to get involved in running their own library.

It is part of a plan suggested by Kirklees Council as part of its budget cuts.

Now talks on the proposals for those two villages start next week.

Similar talks are taking place or have taken place at several other village libraries across Huddersfield.

One idea is for groups of volunteers to take over running the libraries, with the costs of stock, bills and furniture met by the council.

There will be a six-week period of consultation at both libraries starting on Monday June 11, and continuing until Friday July 20.

Members of the public will be able to express their interest in being involved in the running of the library, using either the touch screens or comments cards available.

All expressions of interest will then be considered and more detailed discussions with interested parties will follow.

A council spokesman said: “The proposal is that Kirklees Council will provide guidance to interested community groups and individuals, including training, a regular supply of books, maintenance of public access computers and additional support to ensure the continuation of a high quality library service”.

Kirklees Council Cabinet member Clr Shabir Pandor said: “Over recent weeks the council has been contacted by concerned residents about library services.

“There are no plans to close libraries in Kirklees, however, given continuing pressure on budgets we have to look at alternative ways of running our libraries, including involving local communities.

“We want to work with residents and groups who have expressed support for maintaining library services in order to continue to provide a quality service in these communities.”

At present, Honley Library is open as follows:

Monday: 2pm to 7pm

Tuesday: 1.30pm to 5.30pm

Wednesday: 10am to 12.30pm, 1.30pm to 5pm

Thursday: 1.30pm to 5.30pm

Friday: 10am to 12.30pm, 1.30pm to 5pm

Saturday: 9.30am to 12.30pm

Shepley Library is open as follows:

Monday: 2pm to 7pm

Tuesdays and Wednesdays: closed

Thursday: 9.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 7pm

Friday: 2pm to 5pm

Saturday: 9.30am to noon

The next venue for consultation is Lepton Library and details of the programme will be announced shortly.