📚📉 Big changes are coming next week to libraries across Caerphilly, despite an ongoing legal showdown! On Monday, September 8th, ten libraries are set to close their doors—Aberbargoed, Abercarn, Abertridwr, Bedwas, Deri, Llanbradach, Machen, Nelson, Oakdale, and Pengam. 🚪🚫
The council is forging ahead with a new plan to create community hubs in larger towns like Bargoed, Blackwood, and Caerphilly. They hope these hubs bring a wider range of services to the community. But not everyone is on board. Critics worry that smaller communities may be left in the lurch, with some even saying it feels like a step back to ‘Victorian times’. ⏳
Council leader, Cllr Sean Morgan, believes the new hubs will become inclusive spaces, integral to the community. “We aim to build something more robust and sustainable for the future,” he said. 🏛️💬
Earlier efforts to halt the closures included requests for a judicial review, but these attempts haven’t swayed the course of action. Still, campaigners are not backing down. Mariam Kamish of the Caerphilly Trades Union Council stands firm, stating, “We can’t let these libraries close without a fight.” 💪🔥
While the council is open to community asset transfers, allowing local groups to take over library sites, critics argue it places an unfair burden on communities. 📚🤝
What’s your take? Are community hubs the way forward, or could this mean too much is lost for small towns? Share your thoughts below!👇🗣️