Falkirk libraries set to stay open but could see opening hours cut

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Falkirk libraries could see their opening hours cut in a bid to trim costs, if councillors agree. A proposal going to Falkirk Council 's executive on Tuesday would mean all libraries will close on Wednesdays and lose one late night.

If councillors agree, Bo’ness, Bonnybridge, Denny, Falkirk, Grangemouth, Larbert, and Meadowbank will all open 36 hours a week while Slamannan will continue to open 19 hours a week.

All libraries, including Slamannan, will open on a Saturday under the new arrangements. Read more: Falkirk glass recycling to stay for now after bottle deposit scheme delay Currently Falkirk Council libraries are open six days a week, with two late nights, although opening hours vary across the branches.The proposal is being made after communities were asked for their opinion on options that would reduce library opening hours.A report going to the executive states that the proposed opening hours option was the one preferred by those who took part in the engagement.

It says that closing libraries one day during the working week "offers an opportunity for library buildings to be used by other services, partners and community organisations, generating additional income".In all, 2684 completed survey responses were received and just over 200 people attended the customer engagement sessions and focus groups.The proposal is part of a plan to redesign the service, develop a five-year Strategic Plan and deliver £425,000 of savings, which was approved by Falkirk Council in October 2022.This followed the return of libraries to council management from Falkirk Community Trust.The update of the plan once again pledges to keep all eight of the council's libraries open, as Falkirk currently has the lowest proportion of all