Suffolk County Council’s recent decision to reclaim control of the county’s library services from the independent charity Suffolk Libraries has ignited widespread criticism and concern among residents and officials alike. This move, perceived by many as a regressive step, threatens to undo over a decade of progress achieved under the charity’s stewardship.
Suffolk Libraries: a brilliant service
Since 2012, Suffolk Libraries has managed the county’s 45 libraries, transforming them into vibrant community hubs. The charity expanded services beyond traditional book lending, introducing community art programs, health and wellbeing initiatives, and even prison library services.
Notably, they maintained all library branches without closures and achieved these enhancements while reducing operational costs by approximately £3 million annually compared to 2011. Independent research indicates that for every £1 invested, Suffolk Libraries generated £6 in social value, saving the NHS in Suffolk an estimated £542,000 each year.
The council’s abrupt announcement to bring the library service back under its direct management has been met with shock and dismay. Bruce Leeke, CEO of Suffolk Libraries, described the decision as “a bolt from the blue” and “a staggeringly short-sighted decision.”
He emphasized that the charity had evolved into a “leading force within the industry,” offering groundbreaking services that enriched the lives of Suffolk residents.
Tories snatching back control
Yet councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for environment, communities, and equality, justified the takeover by citing concerns about the charity’s financial management.
He claimed that Suffolk Libraries proposed a 30% reduction in opening hours and that management costs accounted for 33% of annual staffing expenses. Faircloth-Mutton stated, “A 30% cut to opening hours and the current management costs are unacceptable to Suffolk County Council. This is why we’re taking action.”
However, these assertions have been contested. Suffolk Libraries clarified that key management staff salaries represent only 7.7% of the total payroll, a figure verified by independent auditors. Regarding the proposed reduction in hours, the charity explained that this was a reluctant consideration due to inflation and budget pressures, not a definitive plan.
The public’s response has been overwhelmingly supportive of the charity. A petition initiated by Lesley Dolphin, a director at East of England Co-Op, has garnered over 18,000 signatures opposing the council’s decision.
The petition highlights the charity’s success in transforming libraries into essential community resources and warns that the council’s move could jeopardize these achievements.
Widespread opposition
Residents have voiced their concerns passionately. Jo Dixon, a regular library user, remarked:
Suffolk Libraries have done an amazing job since they were created. They constantly innovate, providing a model of community service and a lifeline for many young families.
Another resident, Mark Pearson, expressed apprehension about funding implications, stating:
There is a strong business model in place using Suffolk Libraries Charity, which attracts additional funding and grants. Bringing control to Suffolk County Council will mean the funding will come from higher council tax.
The council’s track record raises further doubts about its capability to manage the library services effectively. The initial outsourcing in 2012 was a response to austerity measures and the council’s inability to sustain the libraries without closures.
Under the council’s previous management, the libraries faced significant financial challenges, leading to the decision to outsource. Reverting to council control without a clear, transparent plan risks repeating past mistakes.
Moreover, the council’s financial prudence is under scrutiny. The sudden decision to terminate the contract with Suffolk Libraries, especially after the charity’s proven efficiency and community engagement, suggests a lack of strategic foresight. This move could result in increased costs and reduced services, undermining the very community-centric model that has been lauded nationally.
Suffolk Libraries decision must be reversed
Suffolk County Council’s decision to reclaim control of the library services appears ill-conceived and dismissive of the substantial progress made under Suffolk Libraries. The council must reconsider its stance, engage in meaningful dialogue with the charity, and prioritize the interests of the communities that have benefited immensely from the enriched library services over the past decade.
Featured image via the Canary
