Third of Essex libraries could close under council plans

Twenty-five of county’s 74 libraries have been identified as ‘not required’, while a further 19 branches could be handed over to volunteers to run

More than a third of Essex’s 74 libraries have been earmarked for closure by the county council, which cited a “collapse” in library usage over the last decade as it launched a major consultation into its proposals.

The council has announced plans to close 25 libraries as it seeks to realise its vision of a service “available online 24-7 to fit with people’s lives in Essex”. In its proposals, which were revealed on Thursday, Essex county council says the closures are proposed “on the basis that because of relatively low demand, the availability of other services and considering the community served, a library service is not required in these locations”.

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