£80,000-Plus Library Cuts Put On Hold By Isle Of Wight Councillors

Plans to cut more than £80,000 from Isle of Wight library services have been put on hold, after councillors warned the service has already been reduced significantly.

The council’s economy, regeneration, transport and infrastructure committee voted on Tuesday (October 6) to hold further discussions with partners rather than send the proposals to the next stage of the budget process.

The suggested savings include changing how partnership libraries operate, potentially transferring more responsibility to town and parish councils, and reducing opening days at some council-run libraries.

Community libraries, including those in Bembridge, Brighstone and East Cowes, rely on volunteers rather than being directly operated by the Isle of Wight Council.

Council service director Alex Minns told councillors that further reductions would need to be considered carefully, as libraries are a statutory service.

Island First Network councillor Julie Jones-Evans, who represents Newport Central, described the proposals as a red line for her, warning that the service was already stretched.

She highlighted the wider role libraries play in communities, including providing warm and safe spaces, as well as hosting activities such as book clubs, knitting groups and Lego clubs.

Reform UK councillor Reuben Loake, who represents Ryde North West, said Ryde Library was a vital community hub, with people using its information and support services and facilities for separated parents to spend time with their children.

He also pointed to Mountbatten and Macmillan coffee mornings, describing the library as the beating heart of the community.

However, Cllr Loake suggested town and parish councils could take on a greater role, while private companies might also be approached to sponsor library facilities.

The proposals form part of wider efforts by the council to address its financial pressures.

Strategic director of community services Simon Moon told the committee that the authority’s budget deficit and its receipt of Exceptional Financial Support meant savings options would continue to be considered.

The library proposals will now be discussed further with internal and external partners before any decision on whether to progress them.