Pembrokeshire Council is facing the tough decision to reduce the opening hours of two of its libraries in a bid to save £250,000. The proposed changes come after a thorough public consultation and a comprehensive library needs assessment. The modifications aim to decrease service costs and meet budget targets agreed upon for the 2025-26 period.
During a recent meeting of Pembrokeshire Council’s cabinet, members were tasked with considering adjustments to library services across specific areas within the county. The proposed alterations impact three county libraries: Pembroke, Pembroke Dock, and Milford Haven. These changes are part of a larger strategy to achieve an annual cost-saving of £250,000, with a 20% target reduction set for the library service.
The initial proposals suggested reductions in opening hours for Pembroke, Pembroke Dock, and Milford Haven libraries, with estimated savings of £6,800, £12,000, and £13,000 respectively. Pembroke library is planned to see a cut of eight hours per week, primarily by closing on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 1 p.m. Pembroke Dock library’s hours will be reduced by seven hours, closing at 1 p.m. on Thursdays and at 4 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
A formal consultation phase took place between January and February, focusing on the proposed hour reductions at Pembroke and Pembroke Dock libraries. For Milford Haven, options included relocating to smaller premises or establishing a community-managed partnership at the current location. The future of Milford Haven’s library services has received a temporary financial lifeline of £13,000 from the Port of Milford Haven and Milford Haven Town Council for the upcoming year.
Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the cabinet member for residents’ services, highlighted the unique situation in Milford Haven, acknowledging the additional short-term funding provided by local bodies. This funding grants officials time to explore sustainable long-term solutions for the library service in Milford Haven. The identified £32,000 in savings is just a fraction of the overall savings anticipated for the service.
Council leader Jon Harvey emphasised the essential role of libraries beyond book lending, noting they serve as communal spaces for various activities. The council unanimously approved the proposed changes, recognising the need to balance cost-efficiency with maintaining essential services for the community. The council members stressed the importance of sustaining library services while adapting to financial constraints.
The adjustments to library hours in Pembrokeshire reflect the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities to manage budgets amid increasing financial pressures. As communities look towards ensuring access to essential services, decisions like these highlight the delicate balance required to navigate budgetary constraints without compromising vital community resources.
Efforts to secure the future of library services amidst financial uncertainties underscore the collaborative initiatives between local government and community stakeholders. With continued dialogue and innovative solutions, local authorities can strive to maintain vital public services while adapting to evolving financial landscapes.
As the council implements these changes, residents, library patrons, and stakeholders are encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure that the library services remain accessible and sustainable for all members of the community. The shared responsibility of balancing fiscal prudence with community needs underscores the importance of transparent decision-making in navigating budgetary challenges.