The operating hours at Council-managed libraries throughout the district will undergo changes starting next month.
During August and September, Bradford Libraries sought input from users through a survey regarding alterations to the opening hours of libraries across the district. The survey inquired about the libraries patrons utilise, proposed changes to opening hours, and preferred evening opening times.
A total of 1187 responses were received, encompassing users from all 10 Council libraries. In summary, 905 respondents (76%) expressed agreement with the proposed changes. Based on the feedback, some of the proposals underwent adjustments.
Commencing Monday, 4 December, modifications will be implemented to the evening opening hours of the libraries. The libraries will now remain open until 7 pm on the following evenings:
- Monday: Eccleshill Library, Ilkley Library, and Keighley Library
- Tuesday: Bingley Library, City Library, and Shipley Library
- Wednesday: Eccleshill Library, City Library, Keighley Library, Manningham Library, and Shipley Library
- Thursday: Bingley Library, City Library, Ilkley Library, Laisterdyke Library, Manningham Library, Wibsey Library, and Wyke Library.
A spokesperson for Bradford Council said ; “This is not a cost saving exercise – no staff will lose their jobs and no libraries will close.
“It is hoped that once changes are made it will provide more opportunities for local community groups to use the library spaces when they are not open to the public, retain evening opening times on selected days as well as usual weekend opening, for people who cannot get to the library during the regular working day and reduce unplanned closures.”
To verify the opening hours of your local library, please visit https://www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries/find-your-local-library/find-your-local-library/.
