Enfield Council Confirms Seven Library Closures Oakwood Library Saved

Enfield Council will shut seven libraries. They decided to keep Oakwood Library open. This change follows a public consultation last year. Oakwood Library had many visitors; it had 43,664 visitors in 2023/24. Other libraries faced strong opposition to their closures.

Southgate, Winchmore Hill, and John Jackson libraries close. Bullsmoor, Enfield Highway, Bowes, and Enfield Island libraries will also shut. Closing these libraries will save money, with savings estimated at about £560,000 each year.

The sales of the closed libraries could generate £3m to £3.85m. The council says other libraries will have longer hours. Enfield Town, Edmonton Green, Palmers Green, and Ordnance Unity Centre will open longer which means 18 more weekly hours.

The consultation showed many opposed the closures. The council claims they listened to the community and want Enfield Island Village Library to be a community space. Council leaders state libraries are vital and aim to balance finances with good service.

Remaining libraries served most visitors. These locations accounted for 89% of visits and 84% of computer usage. The council will focus on digital services too. Home services will support those who cannot visit.

Some leaders are unhappy about the closures and believe the council didn’t listen. However, they are happy Oakwood Library will stay open. Others recognize the council’s financial issues; they wished more libraries could stay.