Could Shropshire's libraries go self-service?

Shropshire library users could see self-service technology installed at their local branches in a bid to help cut costs council officials claimed today.

Steve Charmley, a Shropshire Councillor, revealed the moves as he explained about a mixture of proposed changes to public library services across the county which are designed to help save local authority cash.

Councillor Charmley said a group had been set up to carry out a consultation looking at a review of mobile library services.

"We are looking at mobile services and a task and finish group is going to look at how to deliver the mobile libraries more efficiently," he said.

"We wouldn't have set the group up if we weren't looking to change things."

Councillor Charmley told members at Tuesday night's Five Perry Parishes Local Joint Committee about the possibility of installing self-serving stations in library branches.

Quicker

The technology would be similar to the self-service tills in supermarkets and Councillor Charmley believes this technology would create a "quicker and more efficient service".

He said: "We are going to be doing some redesigning for libraries. There will be staff reductions and alterations but there will be a statutory library service."

Other plans for Shropshire Council were also explained to the meeting.

Laura Rowley, council director of resources, said: "We are expecting significant cuts in the next few years — £47 million funding in the next three years."

Shropshire Council has managed to cut £9.7 million spending through recruitment freezing, reductions in management and avoiding "duplication".

As part of cuts council officials are said to now be "redesigning" its delivery of services and it's hoped this can be done by working closely with the voluntary and community sector.

However, a zero council tax rise has been planned for the next two years. Officials also hope to see LJC meetings play a bigger part in the council processes in the future.

By Chrissy Symmons