Deprived communities lost more libraries since 2016 than richer areas did, the BBC finds
More than 180 council-run libraries have either closed or been handed over to volunteer groups in the UK since 2016, BBC analysis has found.
Freedom of Information requests sent to every library authority in the UK and Arts Council England data show the country has lost one in 20 libraries since 2016, either by closing them completely or moving them over to volunteer-run groups. Former Children’s Laureate Michael Rosen and author of more than 200 books including We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, spent much of his childhood reading in Pinner Library in North London.“Every time I hear of a library being closed I find it absolutely horrifying," Mr Rosen said.
Now Ringmer Village Library operates a book lending service four days a week, partly using the remaining stock from East Sussex Council. “The public have a statutory right to a public library service that’s efficient and comprehensive,” she said. Community groups in Nottingham and Croydon are also among those launching protests against proposed measures in their areas.
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Michael Rosen: Library closures a decimation - ex-Children's LaureateSince 2016, 99 council-run libraries in London have reduced their hours, a BBC investigation finds.
Read more »
BBC Pop Music TV announces Boybands Forever, a new series for BBC Two and BBC iPlayerThe series will dive into pop culture in the 90s and 00s, telling the tales behind the success of some of the UK and Ireland’s most celebrated popstars, who were idolised by millions of pop fans around the world
Read more »
Microsoft really wants those old Exchange 2016 servers put out to pastureCome to 2019. The in-place upgrades to the Subscription Edition will be lovely
Read more »
NI actor fronting new BBC drama on what to expect from physiological thrillerDead and Buried airs on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Monday night
Read more »
BBC star confesses public ‘annoys’ them for unexpected reasonParalympics host Ellie Simmonds opens up about returning to the pool after retiring from professional swimming three years ago - and why she sometimes gets 'annoyed' by the public
Read more »
Strictly's AJ says he was 'public servant' as he opens up on BBC salaryAJ Pritchard has opened up about his time on Strictly Come Dancing and admitted that he felt like a 'public servant' while appearing on the BBC dance competition.
Read more »