Further to my previous updates on my support for those concerned about the future of their local libraries in Shenfield, North Weald and Ingatestone following the launch of Essex County Council's LIbrary Services Consultation, I have written to Essex County Council Leader, Cllr David Finch, and the Cabinet Member for Libraries, Cllr Susan Barker, to summarise the concerns which have been raised with me by constituents.
I take this issue very seriously and have met, by their invitation, supporters of Shenfield and North Weald libraries to discuss their concerns. I have also raised the issue of support for local public libraries in Parliament during questions to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport in December and received a response from the DCMS Minister, Michael Ellis MP (see below)
The consultation about Essex Library Services is being run by Essex County Council and, although I will do all I can to represent your views to the Council, the most powerful way of supporting your library is to complete the consultation if you have not already done so and urge others to do the same before the closing date of 20th February. This is the link you need: www.essex.gov.uk/libraries-consultation
