Mobile library service will end to save money
A vote today has seen Devon's mobile library service being closed, despite a consultation showing opposition to the idea
Last updated 12th Jul 2023
Devon's mobile library service will be closed to save money towards the end of the year - with friends and family asked to collect books for people instead.
A petition with 500 signatures to save it was today handed in during a council meeting, but Devon County Council's cabinet voted to end the service - and offer ÂŁ25,000 to help vulnerable people access services.
A recent consultation showed widespread opposition to the idea - as officials look at how best to help vulnerable users access the 50 existing libraries instead.
Over the past decade the mobile library service has been reduced from eight vehicles to four - which make 374 stops a month between them - sometimes for just 15 minutes.
The four vehicles cost ÂŁ217,000 a year to operate and while more than 3,000 people use the service, a report says the vehicles are reaching the end of their lives.
It says: "Last year the Torrington mobile vehicle was destroyed due to an arson attack and was not replaced. The reserve vehicle was put into action and subsequently when there is a scheduled maintenance break or a breakdown, the service for that area does not operate.
"In 2021, Libraries Unlimited replaced one of the less mechanically reliable vehicles with a second-hand refurbished van.
"The vehicles are ending their serviceable life and the council needs to make a decision regarding the future of the mobile service. New, smaller vehicles cost in the region of ÂŁ150-200k per vehicle so a significant capital investment would be required to continue to operate this service into the future
"We have an extensive network of 50 static libraries across the county and many of the stops are near or close to one our existing buildings."
The proposal going to a vote later would see a 'ÂŁ25K transition support for vulnerable users to continue to access alternative library provision'
It adds: "There are also existing and complementary services that support vulnerable members such as the Good Neighbour scheme where friends, family and neighbours can sign up to reserve, pick up and drop off books, and the Home Library service where volunteers fulfil the same role. The use of the online resources such as e-books, audiobooks and magazines have continued to grow in popularity since COVID and remain strong post pandemic. Libraries Unlimited also support many book clubs."
The report highlights arguments to keep the mobile libraries, including : "The service was often described as one of the last services in rural villages and therefore has become a place to meet, socialise and catch up with neighbours and the librarians.
"The social aspect was mentioned in 18% of respondents’ comments. For some that said they are isolated or unable to get out of the house much, the social aspect of the service is the only time they get to talk to people. It was also mentioned that having access to books was a lifeline to help combat isolation and loneliness, concluding that this has benefited their mental health."
Councillor Roger Croad, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Communities and Equality, said: “I have never known a financial situation as difficult as it is now. We are spending more than ever before on services to support vulnerable children and adults.
"Demand for these services is spiralling as costs continue to rise. This is happening at a time when we have to save millions from our budget, and we have to look for savings.
“We are one of the only authorities in the southwest that has not closed a static library and we have no plans to do so.
You can read the full report here