All libraries will retain their current staffed opening hours.
From Budleigh Salterton Library·facebook page
In a world where it sometimes feels like nobody listens, you have all spoken and you have all been heard.
After an overwhelming response to the Devon County Council consultation on the future of the library service in Devon – proposals to cut library hours across the county have been dropped. All libraries will retain their current staffed opening hours.
We cannot thank you enough for the support we received during the consultation period and in the months since. Special thanks go to the Friends of Budleigh Library committee who have been extremely caring and generous with their time – and have lightened the load in so many ways. Chaired by Geoff Woodman who was supported by his wife Susie, this wonderful bunch were relentless in their campaign to support Budleigh Salterton Library. We don’t know how we would have managed without them.
We must also mention Councillor Charlotte FitzGerald [LibDem District Councillor] who knew she needed to do something to help the library she loves and had a small seed of an idea that grew into something quite amazing. Supported by Councillor Penny Lewis, Charlotte organised the town meeting that many of you were turned away from because there was no space left in the public hall. Library staff will never forget the feeling of walking into the meeting and seeing that sea of friendly and familiar faces.
Thank you to absolutely everybody who filled in the consultation, came to the meetings, wrote to MP’s, the press, authors, the Queen …. thank you to everybody who supported us in your own quiet (and not so quiet) ways.
Thank you also for the kind words, concern and hugs (so many hugs!). We have been overwhelmed from the start by the love you have for this library and for the staff. This library is a special place but it is a joint effort. This library wouldn’t be what it is without the people who use it. You are a lovely bunch.
Although the consultation has been a very challenging and upsetting process (for you as well as us) it has also been very uplifting to see the Budleigh Salterton community come together in such a strong and powerful way. You should all feel very proud of yourselves.
East Devon Watch 