Bradford Residents Invited To Have Say On Library Opening Hours

Bradford Council is inviting residents to participate in a survey regarding changes to the opening hours of nine council-run libraries across the district.

This initiative aims to gather public feedback as part of the council’s efforts to achieve savings outlined in the 2024/5 budget proposals.

The survey, available online, seeks to understand which libraries residents use and their opinions on the proposed adjustments to operating hours. These changes are necessary to meet a savings target of £175,000 for the 2025/6 financial year.

Options under consideration include:

• Closing libraries for one hour during lunch periods.
• Shortening Saturday opening hours.
• Delaying morning opening times.
• Implementing half or full day closures during the week.

The consultation period will run until Wednesday, 4 September. Residents without access to a computer can obtain a paper copy of the survey at their local library.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, emphasised the importance of community input in this process.

“This consultation will allow us to make informed decisions based on the information that our residents provide who use our libraries services. We don’t want to be having to make these changes but unfortunately, we have to make more savings and look at the services we provide and make some difficult decisions. I would encourage everyone of all ages to have their say on what they would like to see happen with opening hours at their local library.”

Residents are urged to spare five minutes to contribute their views and help influence the decision-making process regarding library opening hours. The council promises to update the community on the outcomes of the consultation once it concludes.

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