William Eichler 23 August 2019

Northants gives green light to 17 community-run libraries

Northamptonshire County Council has approved the business cases of 17 community-run libraries as part of a plan to safeguard the future of the authority’s library service.

It also plans to work with five libraries to further develop their business plans.

The cash-strapped local authority has drawn up a strategy to protect libraries in its area from cuts, with input from community groups and district, borough, town and parish councils.

The strategy was then refined following a consultation and evaluation process.

The county council aims to continue running 14 libraries, while five more will provide statutory services but will be in the hands of community groups. 17 will be managed entirely by the community.

Northamptonshire County Council has had financial difficulties – facing at one point a £65m cash shortfall – and was issued two Section 114 notices last year, which meant all spending on non-essential services had to be halted.

By April this year, they had found the £65m thanks to a 'stabilisation plan’ that included cuts in services, increased charges and job losses. The Section 114 notice has been lifted.

Making payment processes smarter  image

Making payment processes smarter

It can be challenging to find the right software to streamline payment processes. Lewis McKenna-Crisp argues SmarterPay has the ideal solution for councils.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Graduate Trainee Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

North Yorkshire Council
£25,183 - £30,559
Could you help us deliver Electric Vehicle infrastructure to support this new transformation mode of transport. Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Contracts and Strategy Officer

Royal Borough of Greenwich
£41,442 - £44,331
Royal Greenwich is on the up! Having achieved a 3.8% increase in our recycling rate this year Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Senior Developer

Royal Borough of Greenwich
£52,584 - £69,068
Royal Greenwich is a vibrant borough, with a rich history and diverse community. Greenwich, London (Greater)
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

SEND Operations Assistant - 2 year FTC

Essex County Council
£25081 - £26679 per annum + + 26 Days Leave & Local Gov Pension
SEND Operations AssistantFixed Term, Full Time£25,081 to £26,679 Per AnnumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Welfare Benefits & Money Advice Caseworker

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Band E SCP 18-25 (£30,559 - £35,235 per annum
We have an exciting opportunity for a skilled individual to join our Welfare Rights Team Sandwell, West Midlands
Recuriter: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Linkedin Banner