Libraries are more needed than ever, say Oldham Liberal Democrats
Date published: 05 October 2022
Councillor Howard Sykes
It’s Library Week in the UK this week and councils up and down the country are announcing their plans to get more people down to their local library.
Oldham’s Liberal Democrat Opposition Leader Councillor Howard Sykes MBE has said that “libraries are needed more than ever and could play a frontline role as we try to tackle the cost-of-living crisis.”
Clr Sykes insists that Oldham Council bosses have so far been 'unambitious' in their efforts to help people through the current economic situation.
He said: “People are really struggling.
"If you were just about managing to keep your head above water before all this, you’re now looking at being plunged into poverty because of the damage the Conservative government has done to the economy and their refusal to help anyone who isn’t rich.
"So far, the response from our Labour council hasn’t been good enough.
"Less than half of their £3million cost-of-living strategy will be spent this year and most of it will be too slow to reach frontline services.
“People need strong local services now more than ever and libraries have always been able to serve as community hubs when properly funded.
"Liberal Democrats want to see extended opening hours, more resourcing for children to be able to do their homework after school; and investment in library staff and volunteers so that they can run advice services for people who are struggling – just like elsewhere in the country.”
After a Liberal Democrat motion was passed in September, Oldham Council agreed to set up warm spaces around the borough for people to go to this winter, keeping costs down at home in the evenings.
Cllr Sykes added: “Libraries and community spaces need investment if they are going to be able to offer the support that our communities need.
"We are calling on the council’s leadership to provide a detailed update, outlining exactly how are libraries will be supported this winter, in this Libraries Week.”
Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.
Most Viewed News Stories
- 1New all-day cafe coming to Oldham tram stop
- 2Teacher Jackie retires after 40 years at Werneth Primary School
- 3‘Drug dealing hotspot’ flat shut as neighbours speak of months-long ordeal
- 4The new powers Andy Burnham never wanted that are causing concern
- 5Police appeal follows targeted handbag theft in Oldham town centre car park