Residents rally against proposed £1m library cuts in Lambeth. Demonstrators voiced concerns outside town hall during budget meeting.
Council members met inside to discuss the budget. They need to save £99 million in four years. This is to stabilize Lambeth’s finances. The library cuts are part of this plan. The library budget could shrink by 25%.
Councilor Anyanwu stated no libraries will close. He said they’ve maintained libraries despite cuts. He wants to improve library services. He wants to do this without wasting money.
Protesters called the plan “scandalous.” One protester said it would “wreck the service.” Laura Swaffield spoke at the meeting. She is from the national Library Campaign. She highlighted libraries’ diverse services.
Libraries offer debt advice and refugee help. They are safe spaces for domestic violence victims. Libraries support vulnerable people, she explained. They help with many problems, not just books.
Ben Rymer also spoke about the library’s importance. Libraries were vital for him growing up. He learned career skills at the library. He fears the cuts will hurt children.
The council cited government austerity and rising costs. They say they must do more with less money. A spokesman said they invest in libraries. They want them fit for the future.
Rymer wants the council to reduce waste. He mentioned the town hall renovation costs. He wants them to reconsider major spending. The budget vote is on March 5.
Lambeth council says libraries are central to the area. They will still celebrate local culture. They mentioned Black History Month and Windrush. They claim libraries are vital for community.