17 March 2011 - Deadline set for community groups wishing to take on libraries

As outlined in its Strategy 2014 consultation, the London Borough of Bexley is considering community management of its smaller libraries, as a way of keeping valued local facilities open whilst enabling savings on the cost of running the library service.

The proposals will enable groups or organisations to manage library buildings on favourable lease terms and, at the same time, explore with the Council ways of bringing in new features, ranging from cafés to clubs, as a way of preserving and hopefully enhancing their use by the community.

A number of groups and organisations have already expressed an interest in community management, but the Council wants to ensure that all potentially interested parties hear about the opportunity and get the chance to respond.

If you are in a community group or local organisation and wish to express a formal interest in running one of Bexley's smaller libraries, you have until 8 April to register. Registration is open to any group, whether already established, or newly formed specifically to run a library.

The libraries where community management opportunities are suggested are: Bexley Village Library, Bostall Library, North Heath Library, Slade Green Library and Upper Belvedere Library.

Bexley's Cabinet Member for Leisure, Arts and Tourism, Cllr Peter Catterall said: "Community management offers an opportunity for our smaller libraries to continue to provide services that meet the needs of local communities, but with added value provided by innovative local groups who are committed to getting the most out of these local assets."

To formally register interest in community management, contact Bexley Library Service for an application form and further information by telephone on 020 3045 4532 or by email to libraries.els@bexley.gov.uk.

Please note that groups which have already expressed their interest, need not do so again.