A SENIOR councillor says a new initiative will help safeguard the future of Malvern Library.
But Natalie McVey is keeping an eye on the impact Libraries Unlocked will have on staff.
The county council scheme, which allows the library to open for longer hours but sometimes unstaffed, came into effect on August 19.
Libraries Unlocked is already in place at a number of other libraries across the county and there have been mixed reactions to its introduction.
Residents in St John’s, Worcester, were particularly worried and even signed a petition against the initiative because they feared a library without staff meant children could not go there alone and it could create issues for elderly people unable to use technology.
Natalie McVey, deputy leader of Malvern Hills District Council and a county councillor, is more optimistic.
She said: “As a former manager in Worcestershire’s library service, I recognise the fundamental role that libraries and library staff play in our lives.
“Our cherished libraries are the beating heart of communities, a place to get lost in imaginary worlds, where children and families enjoy educational and fun activities and somewhere the whole community can feel safe and welcomed into a space that is free to use.
“I welcome any initiative which seeks to safeguard the future of libraries in Worcestershire when we are seeing their closure in towns and cities right across the UK.
“Libraries Unlocked is operating successfully in other areas of the county and has led to the public being able to gain access conveniently during extended hours.”
Library users aged 15 and over can upgrade to Libraries Unlocked membership for free and gain access to the building during the extended opening hours.
“I welcome the fact that access to Malvern Library will be extended for individuals and community groups, but I am of course mindful of possible implications on the staff team,” said Cllr McVey.
“This is something that in my capacity as county councillor for Malvern Trinity ,and community champion for libraries, I shall be keeping a very close eye on.
“I’d like to thank Emma and the staff team at Malvern Library for their continued commitment, hard work and warm welcome provided to everyone.”
Updated opening hours are available on the Libraries Unlocked pages of the Worcestershire County Council website.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here