Public meetings to discuss library service

A SERIES of public meetings regarding Wigan and Leigh’s Library Service will take place throughout January and February.

Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, who manage libraries on behalf of Wigan Council, is currently conducting a four month survey in order to gather as much information as possible to help shape future library provision.

Following the government’s spending review in October Wigan’s library budget is facing a 25 per cent cut of £1.1m as Wigan Council looks to make savings of £55m over the next three years.

This consultation will play an important part in any future decisions on the service.

The reduction in library service budget will mean change in the scale and way library services are delivered. But at this time no decision has been made on the number and location of libraries that will close.

Consultation is also being carried out through a range of mechanisms including questionnaires, focus groups and public meetings and ends on 31 March 2011.

Further information on the consultation can be found by visiting your local library or by going on line and visiting www.wlct.org

All of the following public meetings will take place between 7pm and 9pm in the evenings.

Monday 24 January
Venue: Wigan & Leigh College Parson's Walk Wigan
Car parking is available in nearby streets and the college is a short walk from the bus station. There is no car parking at the venue itself.

Wednesday 26 January
Venue:Platt Bridge Community School Rivington Avenue Platt Bridge
Free car parking is available at the school, which is also located on bus routes.

Tuesday 8 February
Venue:Atherton & Tyldesley Botanical Gardens Association 232, Tyldesley Road Atherton
Free car parking is available at the rear of the building, which is also located on bus routes.

Wednesday 9 February
Venue: Leigh Sports Village Leigh Stadium Sale Way Leigh
Ample free car parking is available on-site.

Thursday 10 February
Venue: Westfield Community School Montrose Avenue Pemberton
Free car parking is available at the school, which is also located on bus routes.