"WE have an increasing population of the aged, so why close down libraries, bowling greens, swimming pools – all of which could help prevent dementia?"
That is the view of just one user of www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk on the proposed libraries shake-up in North East Lincolnshire.
The council this week launched a two-month consultation, asking residents to "help shape the future of library services".
It needs to cut up to £500,000 from the cost of providing the service by the start of the next financial year, meaning the closure of some libraries is a possibility.
There are currently ten libraries operating in North East Lincolnshire at a cost of around £3 million each year.
A total of 96,496 people are registered library users in North East Lincolnshire, including 20,732 children.
Councillor Mick Burnett, portfolio holder for tourism, leisure and culture, said: "We have a duty to provide a good quality library service, but the stark facts are that we can't afford to provide the same level of financial support for the libraries as we have done in the past.
"The library service has been making efficiency savings for a number of years through reducing opening hours, reducing the expenditure on book stock and stopping the mobile library service.
"But this is not enough – we need to do more, but we need people to help us by telling us what they need out of a 21st Century library."
And we are giving you the chance to put your questions about the proposals to Councillor Burnett and the council's head of culture, leisure and sport, Sue Wells, in an online debate at www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk between noon and 1pm tomorrow.
You can take part in the consultation by picking up a copy of the questionnaire from your local library, or visiting www.nelincs.gov.uk
The move has prompted a mixed reaction from our online readers.
Here is a selection of their comments:
Rickandy said: "Do we really need ten libraries in NEL? One in Grimsby, one in Cleethorpes and one in Immingham is all we need."
Loispeters added: "In this day and age of modern technology, do we need them? I love books and reading but we need to make savings. Are libraries really needed or are they just an outdated throwback to the Victorian welfare state (like workhouses!) AND, the heating bill!!
"Start giving out subsidised readers if you need to. LEND electronic books. Get modern ... Victoria died 112 years ago."
StanG replied: "loispeters – just because YOU don't use a library, it does not mean that there aren't thousands who do.
"The Library service provides access not only to your standard fiction and non fiction, but also to reference books and the archives. They offer internet access to those who can't afford a home connection.
"As a country that wants to improve the education its youngsters receive, closing libraries is not the right way to go about things."
Stujaffray added: "We have an increasing population of the aged, so why close down libraries, bowling greens, swimming pools, all of which could help prevent dementia!?
"Lots of the elderly enjoy a walk along the Cleethorpes seafront – where have all the flowers gone? Save The Baths, and the rest!
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