Plans to merge libraries and 'nurture' cultural services (From Harrow Times)

Plans to merge libraries and 'nurture' cultural services

3:33pm Wednesday 18th January 2012 in News By Natalie O'Neill

PLANS to merge libraries and “nurture” cultural services will be put before Harrow Council tomorrow.

Cabinet members will decide whether to commence proposals to combine Gayton Library and the Civic Centre Library at a new site in Harrow Town Centre.

The merger aims to save the council much needed cash after a reduced funding budget from central government means it is forced to find further savings.

If all the recommendations are realised, the council anticipates savings of up to £345,000 per year.

Portfolio holder for community and cultural services, Councillor David Perry, said: “Harrow has strong tradition of culture and learning and we want to see this nurtured and developed despite the tough financial situation we find ourselves in. With less money available, we have had to look at innovative ways of making this happen.”

More than 2,000 people were consulted on the plans which could also see improvements to public IT systems in libraries and the restoration of the borough’s Headstone Manor and museum. Another idea focuses on libraries being moved into cultural facilities, for example Hatch End Library relocating to Harrow Arts Centre.

The recommendations will be put to Cabinet members tomorrow at 7.30pm at Harrow Civic Centre.