Hundreds Back Calls to Save Heart of the Community Coventry Libraries

Coventry officials will discuss library closures next week. Many people want to keep the libraries open, and they don’t want them moved from their current locations. Almost 200 people signed one appeal saying libraries matter and are vital safe community spaces. Locals worry about the move’s negative effects.

The council wants to save money and approved the plans last year. Four libraries might move to council buildings: Holbrooks, Bell Green, Canley, and Coundon. Libraries offer free books and internet-connected computers. Some have printing and local history items, and they also provide free talking books.

Many residents oppose the relocation, which the council proposed last September. Petition organizers will speak on February 11 to officials and a councillor. Over 400 people want Holbrooks library to stay put in its existing community center and don’t want it moving to a dementia hub; residents have “grave concerns.”

Locals say the center is great as it has space for kids, creative clubs, and a fridge. It offers fast internet and digital skills sessions, and people can also use the laptops. Moving Holbrooks hurts children and families. It will stop those with disabilities from using library services.

Another appeal has almost 200 signatures, and it opposes moving Canley, Coundon, and Bell Green. The council wants to merge some services. Canley might move into a leisure center.

Petitioners think the move breaks a rule that libraries should provide full services. A council report says they will still comply. Residents have safety worries, including worries around moving Canley’s library. People use the libraries often, and they must stay in good buildings. Over 750,000 people visited libraries last April.

Moving libraries might reduce staff, books, and services. “Libraries are the heart of the community,” one petition states, adding “They are safe spaces.” The council will decide soon, and the changes might start in 2025, perhaps as late as 2027. The council claims the move saves money and integrates some services.

The council has three other proposals too, involving merging family hubs and social care offices. The council wants to save millions each year as funding issues cause the council to make cuts, and demands on services also lead to these changes. The council says merging offers benefits. They want a better experience for everyone and want to help people quickly and efficiently.

Cllr Kindy Sandhu chairs next week’s meeting. The report does not say when they’ll make a decision.