Libraries in Suffolk bucking the national trend.

Sudbury Library, in the former Corn Exchange, a building saved from demolition by John Betjeman.

Suffolk Libraries are in good shape.  This is the strong message that emerged when last week's Audit Committee looked at how our libraries are currently faring.

In contrast to other cities and counties in the UK , where about 60 libraries a year are being closed, in Suffolk every library has survived, and paid staff have been retained.  Furthermore, anecdotal evidence demonstrates that our libraries are even better places than they were before.

As part of the wholesale review of council activities undertaken over recent years, the future of the libraries was discussed by the Council in 2011.  From the beginning of 2012 the library service was transferred to an independent social enterprise known as an industrial and provident society or IPS.

There have been two main benefits from this.  Firstly the council has saved money, some £1.9m to date.  The other major benefit has been the development of community involvement and governance in libraries.  Volunteers were always used in libraries, but the number of volunteers has increased, Friends Groups have  been formed and local people have become involved in library management.   The Friends Groups have already undertaken fundraising to introduce wi-fi into the library, for example, to purchase equipment, undertake small repairs and redecoration and support events and activities.

Lavenham library, which is used by many not just in Lavenham but in the surrounding villages too, has an active Friends Group.  If you want to get involved details are available at the library.  Several improvements have been made at the library, including the provision of coffee!

Lavenham Library, situated on the ground floor of the village hall

If you want further information about how Suffolk Libraries are doing you can read the Audit Committee Paper on the County Council Website.  (Audit Committee, 18^th March, Agenda Item 9).