Libraries: Closures

Debate between Lord Tope and Lord Ashton of Hyde

Tuesday 19th February 2019 Lords Chamber

[Lord Ashton of Hyde]

I agree with my noble friend. Community libraries and volunteers are both very important. There is no doubt that a number of libraries have closed and the library service is under pressure, as are a lot of other local authority services. The percentage of local government expenditure spent on libraries has in fact remained pretty constant, showing that many local authorities value the services of libraries and continue to make difficult choices to preserve their numbers. One of the ways they are doing so is by getting partnerships with other organisations, in which volunteers play a very important role.

[Lord Tope (LD)]

My Lords—