Killyleagh Library Gets Reprieve By Libraries NI

th October, Libraries NI Board responded positively to the extensive public consultation process regarding Stage Two of the Review of Public Library Provision and closure has been averted. This review evaluated 77 libraries, outside of the Greater Belfast area, in terms of fitness for purpose, potential to deliver the vision of a modern library service, location and sustainability. Initially Killyleagh along with another nine libraries were judged as potentially unsustainable (Carnlough; Draperstown; Fintona; Gilford; Greystone; Kells and Connor; Moneymore; Moy; and Richhill.) [caption id="attachment_28030" align="alignright" width="400" caption="Killyleagh Library has been given a reprieve by Libraries NI. The task ahead now is to find another suitable building. "][/caption] An extensive public consultation took place earlier this year which included questionnaires, public meetings, an independent equality impact assessment and a rural impact assessment as well as meetings with community groups, Councils and public representatives. In Killyleagh work is underway in conjunction with other bodies, either to improve the current premises or investigate a possible alternative location for the library.  Timescales have been established for this work to be completed and the viability of this library will depend on substantive progress being made. The aim is to retain the library on its current site in the interim, pending appraisal of the plans and costs for an alternative location and the proposals received from the Friends of the Library, Killyleagh (FOLK). Realistic targets for usage will be established, in consultation with the Action Group to ensure the sustainability of Killyleagh Library while the plans being developed by FOLK are developed and assessed.  A substantive proposal must be produced by FOLK by March 2012, with guarantees in relation to adequate funding in place to implement the agreed plans. Progress in relation to usage targets will be reviewed in October 2012.  If, at October 2012, targets for library use have not been achieved and/or the Campaign Group’s plans are determined not to be viable, the library will close. Irene Knox, Chief Executive of Libraries NI, said, “I am pleased that the Board has agreed to keep seven of the libraries open and that an innovative approach, involving a partnership with the local Council, is being proposed for Gilford.  It is regrettable that we have to close any library, however, it is essential that we take a realistic view of libraries that are not fit for purpose or are unsustainable in terms of future use and costs. “I am aware that this time of change will be difficult for our staff. They have served these communities with commitment and professionalism over many years. The findings of the consultation process emphasised strong support for staff in all our libraries and we will continue to meet with staff affected by this decision and their unions to agree a constructive way forward together.” [caption id="attachment_13642" align="alignleft" width="229" caption="Adding colour to the library campaign, Clive Scoular dressed as Sir Hans Sloane, a royal surgeon from Killyleagh who founded the British Museum. "][/caption] Save Killyleagh Library Group Delighted But Cautious Welcoming the news that the Killyleagh Library has thrown a lifeline by Libraries NI, Clive Scoular, Chairman of the Save Killyleagh Library action group said, “We are delighted at this news, but nevertheless we are cautious as it allows us one year to find a solution to the problem of our local library. “Basically we need to find another suitable building. The initial group that set up the campaign now will broaden out into FOLK and we will work towards that solution. “Already a local property developer has expressed a keen interest in supplying a building but that is at very early stages of discussion with the Board of Libraries NI. Hopefully we can be in this building in Killyleagh within a year if all goes well. “The current building is in poor order and is no doubt unsuitable. So we will be pressing ahead to support this idea. The key players involved in this in our community now need to get together and work it out. “Over the next year it is important that everyone carries on supporting our local Killyleagh library and the staff who continue to do a great job.” Culture Committee Welcomes Libraries NI Decisions The Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Culture, Arts and Leisure has welcomed the announcement by Libraries NI that eight of the ten libraries earmarked for closure including Killyleagh will remain open, albeit subject to further review. Committee Chairperson Strangford MLA  Michelle McIlveen, said,  “The Committee is pleased that Libraries NI has taken the views of the Committee, local communities and local action groups on board regarding the important role libraries have. “Libraries are not just about lending books, but offer many benefits, including a place for members of the local community to meet, learn and interact… “As older and younger people, people with disabilities and those with dependents have been recognised as the groups who have most to lose from their local library closing, everything must be done to minimise the impact of the closures on these communities… “The Committee urges Libraries NI to work with those communities whose library is subject to further review. These libraries should receive all of the support they need to meet the conditions set by Libraries NI, within a realistic timescale.” The provision of library services has been a priority for the Committee.  It insisted that the decision to close libraries should only be taken as a last resort, once all other avenues and methods were exhausted. It has held Libraries NI to account, and will continue to do so throughout all future reviews added Ms McIlveen. ]]>