Somerset says only volunteers can keep libraries open

Fifteen out of the county’s 34 libraries are under threat of closure if voluntary staff cannot be found to run the service

Almost half of Somerset’s 34 libraries could be under threat of closure if volunteers are not found to run them.

Struggling to meet its budgets, Somerset county council is looking to save up to £520,000 from its library budget. It is preparing to launch a consultation on 29 January setting out plans to use community involvement to keep 15 of its 34 libraries open. If volunteers are not found for the 15 branches, they will close.

Related: Court rules library closures unlawful

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