Possible big changes to local libraries – what do you think?

by hughcleaver on 16 March, 2014

Artist's impression of Woodford library inside a revamped Hawkey HallVision, who run our libraries for the Council, are thinking about making major changes to Woodford and South Woodford Libraries. We think residents need to know what is going on now, before official minds harden and ‘proposals’ become firm plans.

 South Woodford Library

Vision want to create a fitness gym with equipment in the children’s library space and mezzanine floor. The new gym would be separated from the remaining library.

The children’s library would be relocated at the rear of the building.

The new gym area would be run as a commercial venture to raise money, which Vision say will be ploughed back into other leisure services.

Woodford Library

Vision are thinking of selling off the existing library site, and moving the library to the Hawkey Hall. Books would in movable shelves so the Hall could be used for events (see artist’s impression, above). The library area would be restricted to the side hall on some days of the week.

Libraries are so much more than just places to borrow books. Good libraries like South Woodford are at the heart of their community in all sorts of ways.

We want full public consultation and costings of the proposals. And let us know what you think is the best way to continue our local library service into the future.

 

   1 Comment

One Response

  1. Brenda Tucker Lowell says:

    I am looking forward to the gym being open at South Woodford library. It will mean I could walk up there to work out for 45 minutes every day, with my husband. At the moment we have to get public transport or take the car to Wanstead Leisure Centre which we do twice weekly. Exercising helps with mood and relieves the pain of my arthritis. By using the gym I take pain killers rarely

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