Shropshire's Reference Library now at axe risk

Shrewsbury's Reference Library could be axed as part of Shropshire Council's cost-cutting drive, bosses at the Shirehall confirmed today.

They are looking at merging reference and lending services at the Shrewsbury library at Castle Gates.

It is believed that up to 10 jobs could be lost if the Reference Library is closed.

The facility contains a vast array of reference material including Government reports dating back to 1974, official statistics and copies of Acts of Parliament as far as the Magna Carta.

There are also 24 computers, offering visitors free access to the internet.

Steve Charmley, portfolio holder for culture and leisure services, said: "In the context of the need to reduce costs and find new ways of delivering services, the council is looking at ways in which it currently provides services and how they could be provided differently or in more cost effective ways.

"All council services are being reviewed and this includes the Reference Library, to make sure that we deliver them in the best and most efficient way to meet the needs of our local residents and visitors.

"We are considering proposals to integrate the reference and lending services in the Shrewsbury Library building. The proposal has been driven by the way people now access information, through the use of the internet in searching for information, as well as the need to make savings.

"We really understand this may be unsettling for staff and full discussions and meetings with staff are currently taking place before any decisions about the future of the Reference Library are made.

"Further information will be available as and when proposals are developed and implemented."