Corfe Mullen Library – Use It or Lose It!
Several proposals have been put forward for discussion but these include possible closures, staff cuts and a considerable reduction on spending for new books. [read more]
Only fourteen of the 34 existing libraries in Dorset will continue to be fully funded but sadly Corfe Mullen will not be one of these. [read more]
Under the first proposal, local communities could be invited to take ownership of the library if funding is no longer available through Dorset County Council. This proposal would include a 26% (two hundred and thirty six thousand pounds) reduction in money available to purchase books for the library. Staff reorganization could also translate to cuts in jobs. A mobile library service for this area may also be a consideration.
The second proposal would make the required savings by slashing the budget for buying new books by 40% and cutting library opening hours by another 10%. This would mean that all 34 libraries, including Corfe Mullen, would remain open, albeit with a reduced number of new books.
Local residents are invited to complete a survey online at; http://www.dorsetforyou.com/libraryconsultation2011 or paper copies are available from the Corfe Mullen Library. The consultation period commenced on 28 March 2011 and runs until 13 June 2011. Decisions about the future of Dorset libraries will be made during July 2011 so all views and comments are very important during the consultation stage. Letters stating why we value and wish to retain our library should be sent either to the library in Corfe Mullen or to Library Services at the Dorset County Council Offices in Dorchester.
A campaign to ‘SAVE Corfe Mullen Library’ has been set up by the Friends of the Library in conjunction with the Parish Council on FACEBOOK and has information on how people can help stop the closure.
Anyone wanting to become more involved in the campaign can join the Friends of the Library for five pounds a household per year. All money raised goes toward the campaign.
Get involved – our letters, comments and completed survey forms may make the difference between having a library in Corfe Mullen OR NOT.
Lynda White
Library - I use it ALL the time
I am a "stay at home" mother and I wanted to just say that I would be lost without the library. My daughter (20 months) and I visit at least once a week to take out and return books and also attend Children Centre groups regularly. It is great for my daughter to mix with others and a God send for me to be able to get out the house and go somewhere within walking distance to keep my busy toddler entertained. It would be awful if the library were to ever close.
Victoria
When did you last use the Library?
I must confess that I haven't been in there recently, probably at least a month. I find it a bit noisy now with the young children playing - but I'm just an old miseryguts. Maybe I should take earplugs!
Having a library here feels like a community focal point, and I'd be very disappointed if it closed. Please do use it so we can keep a place where anyone can read and look at books and find information.
When did you last use the Library?
CM Library safe for now .....
The County Council decided a few days ago that budget cuts will affect nine libraries but Corfe Mullen is among the remaining 25 which will continue to be funded.
More details on CMO soon.
Library saved for now
That's wonderful news. It's a lovely modern library that's used for the community as well as for lending books.
It would be a very sad loss for a village the size of Corfe Mullen if it closed.