Suffolk County Council confirms decision to bring library services back under its control
The service has been run by the Suffolk Libraries charity since 2012
Suffolk County Council has confirmed that it will be bringing all 45 libraries back under its care and control.
The authority says the decision will ensure continued access to 'high-quality, community-focused library services'.
For the last twelve years, they've been run by charity Suffolk Libraries - which has previously called this decision 'staggeringly short sighted' - but the county council announced its plans to take back control after negotiations broke down with the provider due to ‘serious concerns’ about its viability.
As part of this move, the council says it plans to:
Keep all 45 libraries open
Maintain opening hours
Create job security for all frontline staff
Secure a sustainable future for Suffolk’s library services
In addition to continuing its core library services, the council is also investing £200,000 in mobile libraries, with a further £157,000 for new books and to replace public computers in libraries across Suffolk.
Cllr Philip Faircloth Mutton, Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality said: “This was an incredibly difficult, but important decision for the future of our Library Service.
“Libraries are more than just places to borrow books—they are community spaces where people can access vital services, learn new skills, and build connections.
“With this decision, we are securing a bright future for all 45 libraries across the county, ensuring they remain accessible, vibrant, and sustainable for generations to come.”
The library service will officially return to Suffolk County Council control on 1 June 2025.
Rayo Premium