Emergency Meeting
Please spread the word!
Tuesday, 24 January 2012
Wednesday, 18 January 2012
Letters respond to "gaff-prone Eddy" tell the truth and remind campaigners
This week it is the Croydon Guardian again who has features letters regarding the Upper Norwood Joint Library. You can read the letters here on page 21 of this week's edition. All appear to have been written in response to this offering from Cllr Eddy Arram, which we reproduced, with comments, here.
What the letters this week all have in common is that they doubt the words of Cllr Eddy Arram.
John Payne, Chairman of the Crystal Palace Community Association, implores Croydon to work with Lambeth.
Presumably at the time of writing Mr Payne was unaware that Croydon had already set in motion plans to value the library and book stock, all set out in a letter sent after the last post date before Christmas had passed, giving Lambeth unreasonable time scales within which to respond. You can read the story, which includes a copy of Croydon CEO, Jon Rouse's letter, here.
Then there is the letter where the writer refers to Croydon's,
And finally we have local ward councillor, Pat Ryan, putting Cllr Arram straight.
What the letters this week all have in common is that they doubt the words of Cllr Eddy Arram.
John Payne, Chairman of the Crystal Palace Community Association, implores Croydon to work with Lambeth.
Presumably at the time of writing Mr Payne was unaware that Croydon had already set in motion plans to value the library and book stock, all set out in a letter sent after the last post date before Christmas had passed, giving Lambeth unreasonable time scales within which to respond. You can read the story, which includes a copy of Croydon CEO, Jon Rouse's letter, here.
Then there is the letter where the writer refers to Croydon's,
"stubborn, wilful and irresponsible disinclination to comply with the Joint Library Agreement..."
And finally we have local ward councillor, Pat Ryan, putting Cllr Arram straight.
Cllr Ryan's reference to
"dear gaff-prone Eddy"
will ring true with many Croydon residents. It reminds us all of the previous exchanges on Croydon libraries, again in the letters pages of the local press. You can read Cllr Arrram's letter with comments here, which one of the campaigners responded to here.
Perhaps Cllr Arram might like to pause to consider more carefully next time he makes a statement, as Croydon and Lambeth residents are not so easily taken in.
We are also sure that Cllr Sara Bashford will thank him warmly for reminding the Save Croydon Libraries Campaign group that, as was stated in this post back in August 2011, written in response to Cllr Arram's letter, that we promised to share why we believe Croydon residents were denied a say on libraries and residents' concerns were not being taken seriously.
We never did that fully, did we? Cheers for the reminder Eddy!
Monday, 16 January 2012
Libraries Lobby -13th March
UNISON, the National Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI), Voices for the Library, The Library Campaign, Campaign for the Book and the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) have announced they will hold a joint lobby of Parliament calling on politicians to protect vital library services. This was as a result of the Libraries Campaigner event held in London late last year.
During the lobby, on 13 March, the campaigning group will highlight the importance of libraries in providing access to learning and as a vital lifeline for many communities.
Heather Wakefield, UNISON Head of Local Government, said:
“Cutting libraries is not an easy solution for councils to save cash - it is a literacy time bomb for deprived communities.
“Community groups are being held to ransom by Government plans to force them to take over the running of services, or lose them. These groups don’t have the time, skills and resources to take over the jobs of experienced library staff.
“A shocking 30,000 children are leaving primary school with a reading age of seven or below and libraries are a vital lifeline for community groups. We need a national vision of a modern library service, as an investment in the future generation.”
Ruth Bond, Chair of the national Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI), said:
"The NFWI is delighted to support the lobby of parliament. A threat to local library services is a threat to a community’s education and, as champions of libraries for the past 96 years, WI members are gravely concerned that so many local authorities are riding roughshod over educational resources while the Government watches in silence. It is simply not good enough to assume that volunteers will step in to continue providing services previously supplied by professionals; the Government cannot rely on community-minded individuals to step into the breach to bridge the gaps, and the loss of professional expertise is irreplaceable.
"Local libraries are a fundamental information and education resource. Whilst in their essence, libraries facilitate access to books and resources, they play a much wider role in promoting shared knowledge and equality of opportunity, facilitating community cohesion, and enabling life-long learning and literacy from cradle to grave."
Abby Barker, from Voices for the Library, said:
“Voices for the Library are urging anyone concerned for the future of the library service in the UK to get involved on March 13th. This is your chance to tell your MP how vital your local library service is, and to ask them to call the Secretary of State to task over his noticeable lack of involvement. The 1964 Museums and Public Libraries Act very clearly puts public libraries under the superintendence of the Secretary of State, however, Jeremy Hunt has yet to intervene on any level, even in the most extreme cases."
Andrew Coburn, Secretary of The Library Campaign, said:
“Public libraries still have a wide-ranging role in encouraging literacy and education as well as providing literature for leisure and information. MPs need to know what a real 21st century library service can provide – so that they can join the thousands who are trying to prevent their branches being closed and services mutilated.”
Alan Gibbons, Author and Organiser of Campaign for the Book said:
“A reading child is a successful child. The National Literary Trust has found that a child who goes to a library is twice as likely to read well as one who doesn’t. The UK currently stands at 25th in the PISA International Reading ranking. Libraries are vital to improving this position. We have to fight for the defence and extension of public library services.”
Annie Mauger, Chief Executive of CILIP, said:
"The professional skills and expertise of library staff are core to providing the public with a quality library service. Volunteers should supplement and enrich a professionally led service, not replace the knowledge and skills of staff. We are concerned that public library services in England are being damaged; the impact will be felt now and in the long term. We urge the Secretary of State to use his powers of intervention where there is clear evidence that the Public Libraries & Museums Act (1964) has been potentially breached. It is wrong to view public libraries solely as a cost; by providing opportunities for learning and literacy development libraries are an investment in communities, families and individuals.”
You can follow the lobby on twitter #librarieslobby and we will be tweeting and updating information on this blog as it becomes available.
Local campaigners were also represented at the planning meeting on Saturday and more information will be made available very shortly, including how to lobby your MP.
We are delighted to have already heard from local library supporters who will be attending the libraries lobby. Please spread the word!
During the lobby, on 13 March, the campaigning group will highlight the importance of libraries in providing access to learning and as a vital lifeline for many communities.
The lobby will take place
at midday
on 13 March, 2012
at Central Hall
Westminster
Heather Wakefield, UNISON Head of Local Government, said:
“Cutting libraries is not an easy solution for councils to save cash - it is a literacy time bomb for deprived communities.
“Community groups are being held to ransom by Government plans to force them to take over the running of services, or lose them. These groups don’t have the time, skills and resources to take over the jobs of experienced library staff.
“A shocking 30,000 children are leaving primary school with a reading age of seven or below and libraries are a vital lifeline for community groups. We need a national vision of a modern library service, as an investment in the future generation.”
Ruth Bond, Chair of the national Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI), said:
"The NFWI is delighted to support the lobby of parliament. A threat to local library services is a threat to a community’s education and, as champions of libraries for the past 96 years, WI members are gravely concerned that so many local authorities are riding roughshod over educational resources while the Government watches in silence. It is simply not good enough to assume that volunteers will step in to continue providing services previously supplied by professionals; the Government cannot rely on community-minded individuals to step into the breach to bridge the gaps, and the loss of professional expertise is irreplaceable.
"Local libraries are a fundamental information and education resource. Whilst in their essence, libraries facilitate access to books and resources, they play a much wider role in promoting shared knowledge and equality of opportunity, facilitating community cohesion, and enabling life-long learning and literacy from cradle to grave."
Abby Barker, from Voices for the Library, said:
“Voices for the Library are urging anyone concerned for the future of the library service in the UK to get involved on March 13th. This is your chance to tell your MP how vital your local library service is, and to ask them to call the Secretary of State to task over his noticeable lack of involvement. The 1964 Museums and Public Libraries Act very clearly puts public libraries under the superintendence of the Secretary of State, however, Jeremy Hunt has yet to intervene on any level, even in the most extreme cases."
Andrew Coburn, Secretary of The Library Campaign, said:
“Public libraries still have a wide-ranging role in encouraging literacy and education as well as providing literature for leisure and information. MPs need to know what a real 21st century library service can provide – so that they can join the thousands who are trying to prevent their branches being closed and services mutilated.”
Alan Gibbons, Author and Organiser of Campaign for the Book said:
“A reading child is a successful child. The National Literary Trust has found that a child who goes to a library is twice as likely to read well as one who doesn’t. The UK currently stands at 25th in the PISA International Reading ranking. Libraries are vital to improving this position. We have to fight for the defence and extension of public library services.”
Annie Mauger, Chief Executive of CILIP, said:
"The professional skills and expertise of library staff are core to providing the public with a quality library service. Volunteers should supplement and enrich a professionally led service, not replace the knowledge and skills of staff. We are concerned that public library services in England are being damaged; the impact will be felt now and in the long term. We urge the Secretary of State to use his powers of intervention where there is clear evidence that the Public Libraries & Museums Act (1964) has been potentially breached. It is wrong to view public libraries solely as a cost; by providing opportunities for learning and literacy development libraries are an investment in communities, families and individuals.”
You can follow the lobby on twitter #librarieslobby and we will be tweeting and updating information on this blog as it becomes available.
Local campaigners were also represented at the planning meeting on Saturday and more information will be made available very shortly, including how to lobby your MP.
We are delighted to have already heard from local library supporters who will be attending the libraries lobby. Please spread the word!
No libraries closing in Croydon! Hip hip hooray!
No libraries closing in Croydon! Hip hip hooray!
This is the very positive message, delivered by Cllr Sara Bashford, and confirmed by Croydon Central MP, Gavin Barwell. This couldn't be further from the truth.
A resident, who is a library campaigner, has been taken to task for tweeting about the Inside Croydon post, that details information about closures.
You can read the full blog here.
Mr Barwell is not known for his courtesy on twitter and we've witnessed many heated exchanges with other tweeters, including national library campaigners we follow, such as the indefatigable Shirley Burnham who seemed shocked that Mr Barwell was being so discourteous and so unwilling to engage with the campaign group. It is quite clear that Mr Barwell has also almost systematically ignored replying to any libraries questions put to him on twitter, such as the one above from Andrew Pelling, or from others for that matter, as the following example demonstrates:
When residents or campaigners ask for clarity, they are ignored. Yet finally, Mr Barwell was prepared to tweet, and we reproduce it here.
Many noted the careful wording - the use of "branch" libraries in this tweet.
The council has sought to focus on the "all libraries are saved" message by reinforcing that none are closing, and Mr Barwell was certainly happy to reinforce this message in his tweet.
Unfortunately residents and campaigners are very cynical as they believe they were not listened to in the consultation process and have since noticed the service has been silently eroded through the loss of many of our professional librarians and experienced staff. Volunteers promised for the Summer BookTrail didn't materialise, some events have been cancelled and residents struggle to obtain clear information about activities running.
Then campaigners became increasingly concerned that residents began reporting a cull of book stock over some months. Library after library were clearing their shelves of books, these were being boxed up, and all without explanation. It seems, once again, Inside Croydon were the first to receive some information on this and you can read the post here.
So while we accept that Croydon libraries are still open, we have reduced staffing of experienced assistants and qualified librarians, a catalogue of problems caused by this, library events cancelled and attempts to enlist volunteers thwarted, leading to further problems. Now we have the removal of book stock, undertaken silently and without explanation. But at least our libraries are open.
And then this.
The Croydon Advertiser was given information by Cllr Bashford that New Addington Library is, in fact, closing. You can read the full post here http://www.thisiscroydontoday.co.uk/Closure-New-Addington-Library-building-far-says/story-14437221-detail/story.html As you can see from the comments, New Addington Pathfinders, the so called independent voice in New Addington, are already on board and appear open to the plans.
It seems they are little concerned that Cllr Bashford is unable to assure what book stock will be on offer. As they say, these can be ordered. Could it be though that Pathfinders are unaware of the problems across the borough with reservations and transfers? Certainly other residents are aware, as this comment on the post demonstrates. How do Pathfinders think this new, more cramped space, will do any better?
They seem not only open to, but almost thankful, that the council is sharing this information before and not after the closure and move. Are they really not aware of what is going on, on their doorstep? The CALAT centre in New Addington has been unable to produce an up to date brochure of courses because they have lost teaching space in order to accommodate this move. That's not just courses for leisure but courses run that provide residents with life skills such as basic literacy and numeracy, offering a gateway to improved opportunities and possible employment. The job centre will also be accommodated at the CALAT centre.
Just exactly what space is going to be available to accommodate this library that Cllr Bashford assures will offer the same level of service, as is currently on offer in a purpose built library, which even includes a secure garden area?
The article goes on to explain that the council will not be consulting the residents until after the decision has been taken. In Cllr Bashford's own words,
So the closure of a well used, purpose built library is decided without any consideration of the available space in the proposed new venue. It hardly seems there is any rigour to the decision process or any regard for how a service might cope in the limited space available.
No wonder CALAT cannot advertise courses, no wonder the library is telling enquirers there is no forward plan for events and no wonder Croydon's Cllr Bashford has been forced to make this rather half-hearted announcement about, yes, a closure.
Could it be that this is merely the half-way step to setting up another lucrative deal with developers to offer the prime library location in New Addington up for grabs to the highest bidder, perhaps a bidder already lined up? There has been talk for years of a supermarket such as Tesco's in New Addington. Could it just be that the CALAT move is merely an interim measure, with any developer having to provide a library facility within the complex that they build, just like Sainsbury's in Selsdon, in the ward that Cllr Bashford represents?
Whatever the plan, New Addington are being sold short with a poorly thought out plan to cram so much into an already well used space which is the current CALAT building.
But perhaps Mr Barwell's reference to no branch libraries being closed was really intended to mask the quite shocking revelation about Upper Norwood Joint Library, exposed today by Inside Croydon. Read the latest here: http://insidecroydon.com/2012/01/16/rouse-tells-lambeth-to-plan-closure-of-library-in-secret/
No wonder Mr Barwell is so keen to discredit and expose Save Croydon Libraries campaigners, as he tweeted today:
It seems that Croydon library campaigners and bloggers such as Inside Croydon are just a little too close to exposing the truth.
We dread to think what will happen next. Watch this space.
This is the very positive message, delivered by Cllr Sara Bashford, and confirmed by Croydon Central MP, Gavin Barwell. This couldn't be further from the truth.
A resident, who is a library campaigner, has been taken to task for tweeting about the Inside Croydon post, that details information about closures.
You can read the full blog here.
Mr Barwell is not known for his courtesy on twitter and we've witnessed many heated exchanges with other tweeters, including national library campaigners we follow, such as the indefatigable Shirley Burnham who seemed shocked that Mr Barwell was being so discourteous and so unwilling to engage with the campaign group. It is quite clear that Mr Barwell has also almost systematically ignored replying to any libraries questions put to him on twitter, such as the one above from Andrew Pelling, or from others for that matter, as the following example demonstrates:
When residents or campaigners ask for clarity, they are ignored. Yet finally, Mr Barwell was prepared to tweet, and we reproduce it here.
Many noted the careful wording - the use of "branch" libraries in this tweet.
The council has sought to focus on the "all libraries are saved" message by reinforcing that none are closing, and Mr Barwell was certainly happy to reinforce this message in his tweet.
Unfortunately residents and campaigners are very cynical as they believe they were not listened to in the consultation process and have since noticed the service has been silently eroded through the loss of many of our professional librarians and experienced staff. Volunteers promised for the Summer BookTrail didn't materialise, some events have been cancelled and residents struggle to obtain clear information about activities running.
Then campaigners became increasingly concerned that residents began reporting a cull of book stock over some months. Library after library were clearing their shelves of books, these were being boxed up, and all without explanation. It seems, once again, Inside Croydon were the first to receive some information on this and you can read the post here.
So while we accept that Croydon libraries are still open, we have reduced staffing of experienced assistants and qualified librarians, a catalogue of problems caused by this, library events cancelled and attempts to enlist volunteers thwarted, leading to further problems. Now we have the removal of book stock, undertaken silently and without explanation. But at least our libraries are open.
And then this.
The Croydon Advertiser was given information by Cllr Bashford that New Addington Library is, in fact, closing. You can read the full post here http://www.thisiscroydontoday.co.uk/Closure-New-Addington-Library-building-far-says/story-14437221-detail/story.html As you can see from the comments, New Addington Pathfinders, the so called independent voice in New Addington, are already on board and appear open to the plans.
It seems they are little concerned that Cllr Bashford is unable to assure what book stock will be on offer. As they say, these can be ordered. Could it be though that Pathfinders are unaware of the problems across the borough with reservations and transfers? Certainly other residents are aware, as this comment on the post demonstrates. How do Pathfinders think this new, more cramped space, will do any better?
They seem not only open to, but almost thankful, that the council is sharing this information before and not after the closure and move. Are they really not aware of what is going on, on their doorstep? The CALAT centre in New Addington has been unable to produce an up to date brochure of courses because they have lost teaching space in order to accommodate this move. That's not just courses for leisure but courses run that provide residents with life skills such as basic literacy and numeracy, offering a gateway to improved opportunities and possible employment. The job centre will also be accommodated at the CALAT centre.
Just exactly what space is going to be available to accommodate this library that Cllr Bashford assures will offer the same level of service, as is currently on offer in a purpose built library, which even includes a secure garden area?
The article goes on to explain that the council will not be consulting the residents until after the decision has been taken. In Cllr Bashford's own words,
" When we have exact plans we will find out what works best for residents",as is the way with Croydon consultations - plan first, consult after. But perhaps the most damning statement Cllr Bashford makes is that, in referring to the comparable space available at the CALAT Centre and the existing library,
"We do not know what the square footage available will be in comparison with the library."
So the closure of a well used, purpose built library is decided without any consideration of the available space in the proposed new venue. It hardly seems there is any rigour to the decision process or any regard for how a service might cope in the limited space available.
No wonder CALAT cannot advertise courses, no wonder the library is telling enquirers there is no forward plan for events and no wonder Croydon's Cllr Bashford has been forced to make this rather half-hearted announcement about, yes, a closure.
Could it be that this is merely the half-way step to setting up another lucrative deal with developers to offer the prime library location in New Addington up for grabs to the highest bidder, perhaps a bidder already lined up? There has been talk for years of a supermarket such as Tesco's in New Addington. Could it just be that the CALAT move is merely an interim measure, with any developer having to provide a library facility within the complex that they build, just like Sainsbury's in Selsdon, in the ward that Cllr Bashford represents?
Whatever the plan, New Addington are being sold short with a poorly thought out plan to cram so much into an already well used space which is the current CALAT building.
But perhaps Mr Barwell's reference to no branch libraries being closed was really intended to mask the quite shocking revelation about Upper Norwood Joint Library, exposed today by Inside Croydon. Read the latest here: http://insidecroydon.com/2012/01/16/rouse-tells-lambeth-to-plan-closure-of-library-in-secret/
No wonder Mr Barwell is so keen to discredit and expose Save Croydon Libraries campaigners, as he tweeted today:
We dread to think what will happen next. Watch this space.
Tuesday, 10 January 2012
Asking a question at a Croydon Council meeting
All Croydon residents and business rate payers may submit one written question to full council meetings. These meetings are attended by all elected councillors.
Written questions must be no more than 50 words long and relate to an issue over which the council has direct power or responsibility.
During the time allocated, members of the public will be able to ask one supplementary oral question relating directly to their original written question. Questions will be taken strictly in the order in which they are received.
Members of the public are very welcome to attend the meeting to observe proceedings from the public gallery.
To ask a question, see the details of the various options available, listed on the Croydon Council website here: http://www.croydon.gov.uk/democracy/dande/questions
The next submission deadline is Monday, 16th January, 2012 at 12 noon for the next council meeting on Monday, 30th January, 2012. This will be your last chance to table a question until April so grab the opportunity.
Might you be raising a question on libraries?
Written questions must be no more than 50 words long and relate to an issue over which the council has direct power or responsibility.
During the time allocated, members of the public will be able to ask one supplementary oral question relating directly to their original written question. Questions will be taken strictly in the order in which they are received.
Members of the public are very welcome to attend the meeting to observe proceedings from the public gallery.
To ask a question, see the details of the various options available, listed on the Croydon Council website here: http://www.croydon.gov.uk/democracy/dande/questions
The next submission deadline is Monday, 16th January, 2012 at 12 noon for the next council meeting on Monday, 30th January, 2012. This will be your last chance to table a question until April so grab the opportunity.
Might you be raising a question on libraries?
Author Events at Shirley Library in January 2012
There are two free talks by authors at Shirley library this month.
Monday 16th January, 2012
11.30am-12.15pm
Holocaust survivor, author and historian, Agnes Grunwald-Spier, will give a talk about her life and experiences on . She will sell copies of her book, The Other Schindlers: Why Some People Chose to Save Jews in the Holocaust, following her talk. Spaces are limited so please book your place soon to avoid disappointment.
If you’d like tickets for this talk, drop in to Shirley Library or phone on 020 8726 6900 and ask for Shirley Library. Alternatively, you can email shirley@croydon.gov.uk - When booking you'll need to provide the names of those attending and a contact telephone for each person.
Details are under the events tab here: http://www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/library-events/ but not yet listed under the Shirley Library tab here: http://www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/croydonlibs/shirleylib
11.30am-12.15pm
Holocaust survivor, author and historian, Agnes Grunwald-Spier, will give a talk about her life and experiences on . She will sell copies of her book, The Other Schindlers: Why Some People Chose to Save Jews in the Holocaust, following her talk. Spaces are limited so please book your place soon to avoid disappointment.
If you’d like tickets for this talk, drop in to Shirley Library or phone on 020 8726 6900 and ask for Shirley Library. Alternatively, you can email shirley@croydon.gov.uk - When booking you'll need to provide the names of those attending and a contact telephone for each person.
Tuesday 24th January
2pm -3.15pm
Author Bobbie Darbyshire will give a talk about her books, the writing process and will be selling copies of her books, Truth Games and Love, Revenge and Buttered Scones, following her talk. Spaces are limited so please book your place soon to avoid disappointment.
If you’d like tickets for this talk, drop in to Shirley Library or phone on 020 8726 6900 and ask for Shirley Library. Alternatively, you can email shirley@croydon.gov.uk - When booking you'll need to provide the names of those attending and a contact telephone for each person.
Details are not yet listed under the events tab here: http://www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/library-events/, nor under the Shirley Library tab here: http://www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/croydonlibs/shirleylib
Please keep sending us details of events in Croydon libraries, particularly those that are difficult to locate.
Details are not yet listed under the events tab here: http://www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/library-events/, nor under the Shirley Library tab here: http://www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/libraries/croydonlibs/shirleylib
Please keep sending us details of events in Croydon libraries, particularly those that are difficult to locate.
Monday, 9 January 2012
Everything's rosy in Wandsworth
Wandsworth is working with Croydon to conduct a joint procurement exercise to outsource their network of libraries.
The Guardian's Local Government Network blog carried an article written by Wandsworth's deputy leader, Councillor Jonathan Cook, under the modest title of:
Wandsworth opens the competition to save London's libraries
Quite a claim, and what a very rosy spin Cllr Cook puts on the situation!
You can read the full text here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/local-government-network/2012/jan/05/wandsworth-council-library-tender?newsfeed=true
In the post Cllr Cook refers to bold steps and big ideas. The stated aim of the exercise is to improve delivery whilst reducing costs. He gives, what would appear to be, very firm assurances by stating that both councils will remain in control of their libraries.Contract specification will be tight, defining every aspect of the delivery and there will be close monitoring against clear performance targets. The post, oozing positivity, also offers up that,
Campaigners spoke to thousands of library users across the borough yet no one can recall any resident suggesting this approach. Certainly Croydon are very reticent and have denied an FOI requesting the breakdown of the responses that they claim informed the decision. You can find the FOI details here: http://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/breakdown_of_responses_to_librar#incoming-199932
It is curious, with all his big ideas and bold plans to improve the service, that Cllr Cook fails to mention the basis of the selection process. This is referred to in the council papers as 'MEAT', the Most Economically Advantageous Tender. Not a mention of maintaining or improving the service on offer, just financial advantage to the councils as highest priority.
Given Croydon's current situation, now at breaking point, over the running of Upper Norwood Joint Library (UNJL), only a fool would try to negotiate another joint council deal. Yet, despite being incapable of working with Lambeth on UNJL, Croydon was silently setting up this deal with Wandsworth and forge ahead with their plans.
There was outcry from Croydon residents who finally heard of the plan when it was announced. We suspect this is why, even to date, no notice has gone up in any Croydon library to advertise the plans. Many still think libraries have been saved.
It is interesting that Cllr Cook slips in,
It seems clear, at least as far as Wandsworth Council is concerned, that whilst interested parties may bid for Croydon and Wandsworth separately or jointly, Wandsworth will not entertain considering anything other than a joint venture, with the winning contract covering the running of both boroughs' libraries.
It cannot help escape notice either that, whilst Croydon is keeping all information close to their chest, their partners at Wandsworth are keen to share. Is the relationship already showing the strain of joint working, we wonder?
Cllr Cook continues to effuse,
Let's put the real situation in context.
Croydon have already admitted realising savings in the region of £350K through an internal reshuffle, one that resulted in the loss of many of the most experienced staff and qualified librarians, leaving Croydon libraries under staffed and unable to cope, despite the valiant efforts of the remaining staff.
A list of the real and measurable effects of these back door cuts, as noted by residents across the borough, was presented to Cllr Sara Bashford at a shadow cabinet meeting. Although indicating publicly that she took these very seriously and offering to investigate the issues she then had a lapse of memory and responded on only two very minor points raised at one location only. Being reminded of her promise, she then requested the details in writing which a campaign spokesperson was happy to provide, along with further examples that had occurred since the original shadow cabinet meeting. Despite this, Cllr Bashford seems not only incapable of responding to the points but appears to actually have struggled to comprehend the issues put to her, or their significance.
Wandsworth, in the Library Service Market testing paper (Paper No 11-683) here: http://ww3.wandsworth.gov.uk/moderngov/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=499&MID=3591#AI22158,
which you can read in PDF form here:
http://ww3.wandsworth.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s14838/Paper%20No.%2011-683.pdf already refers to the rather more substantial savings made of £900K!
This was realised through reduced opening hours, presumably including the turning York Gardens over to the community, who need not only find volunteers in sufficient numbers to man the library but fundraise to the tune of £70K per annum to keep it running. Savings were also made in reviews of senior management (that's job losses of senior experienced and professionally qualified staff in less rosy terms) and savings on book stock.
The specifics from the document are as follows, so readers can verify the astonishing details and figures for themselves.
Dare we mention to Cllr Cook that when he refers to, "the bedrock of our service" being unchanged this is hardly inspiring when residents in both boroughs have already seen a drastic reduction in the service on offer?
It's inspiring to refer to,
Then there is the reference to,
And Cllr Cook, on a high, digs himself in even deeper, finishing with the promise,
internal reshuffle.
It really saddens library users to see the valiant attempts of the existing staff, doing their utmost to make libraries work, under very difficult circumstances. We can't possibly know the internal workings and changes that have been made. What we do know though is the measurable impact it has had on the service on offer and we are very concerned for the well-being of all library staff left. Again this concern was shared with Cllr Bashford at the shadow cabinet meeting.
So there we have it. Two councils embarking on working together, already showing the strain of this new relationship, with Croydon desperately trying to shake off their existing tie with Lambeth.
Cllr Bashford was so out of her depth to start with she was even announcing to residents in public meetings that libraries were "a nice to have, not a must have" and referred to them as "non statutory" or "discretionary" until residents pointed out the small matter of the 1964 Act. It would appear she was trying to convince Croydon residents that they were in no way entitled to a library service.
And, probably most worryingly, we have two councils who, by their actions, are actively dismantling their library services, but are unable or unwilling to see the impact of this and the problems that this is causing. Yet they feel they are well equipped to not only pass judgement on the proposals put forward from those bidding to run the service but are capable of monitoring this effectively.
But let's not let reality put a dampener on their bold steps and big ideas. We leave you with the final words of Cllr Jonathan Cook,
Next step, he'll be saving the world, no doubt!
Should you wish to support Friends of York Gardens Library to fundraise or volunteer http://saveyorkgardens.com/ or follow them on twitter at @SaveYGLibrary
The Guardian's Local Government Network blog carried an article written by Wandsworth's deputy leader, Councillor Jonathan Cook, under the modest title of:
Wandsworth opens the competition to save London's libraries
Quite a claim, and what a very rosy spin Cllr Cook puts on the situation!
You can read the full text here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/local-government-network/2012/jan/05/wandsworth-council-library-tender?newsfeed=true
In the post Cllr Cook refers to bold steps and big ideas. The stated aim of the exercise is to improve delivery whilst reducing costs. He gives, what would appear to be, very firm assurances by stating that both councils will remain in control of their libraries.Contract specification will be tight, defining every aspect of the delivery and there will be close monitoring against clear performance targets. The post, oozing positivity, also offers up that,
"If another organisation can do a better job, we will open the door."What the article doesn't say is that, whilst Croydon residents were patiently awaiting the outcome of the "genuine" consultation on libraries, and told the delay was to allow a full and careful analysis of all comments, Croydon was actually hot-footing it to Wandsworth to set up a deal to work together.
Campaigners spoke to thousands of library users across the borough yet no one can recall any resident suggesting this approach. Certainly Croydon are very reticent and have denied an FOI requesting the breakdown of the responses that they claim informed the decision. You can find the FOI details here: http://www.whatdotheyknow.com/request/breakdown_of_responses_to_librar#incoming-199932
It is curious, with all his big ideas and bold plans to improve the service, that Cllr Cook fails to mention the basis of the selection process. This is referred to in the council papers as 'MEAT', the Most Economically Advantageous Tender. Not a mention of maintaining or improving the service on offer, just financial advantage to the councils as highest priority.
Given Croydon's current situation, now at breaking point, over the running of Upper Norwood Joint Library (UNJL), only a fool would try to negotiate another joint council deal. Yet, despite being incapable of working with Lambeth on UNJL, Croydon was silently setting up this deal with Wandsworth and forge ahead with their plans.
There was outcry from Croydon residents who finally heard of the plan when it was announced. We suspect this is why, even to date, no notice has gone up in any Croydon library to advertise the plans. Many still think libraries have been saved.
It is interesting that Cllr Cook slips in,
This is a shift from the proposal approved in Croydon in the September Cabinet meeting. The full papers are located here :http://www.croydon.gov.uk/contents/documents/meetings/546596/2011/2011-09-19/cab20110919libraryservices.pdf, but the particular part we refer to is here, in point 6.5:"Wandsworth and Croydon will each have a separate contract for their library networks – but only bids to run both services in tandem will be considered.(our italics) This allows both councils to benefit from shared overheads and buying power while maintaining local control and accountability."
It seems clear, at least as far as Wandsworth Council is concerned, that whilst interested parties may bid for Croydon and Wandsworth separately or jointly, Wandsworth will not entertain considering anything other than a joint venture, with the winning contract covering the running of both boroughs' libraries.
It cannot help escape notice either that, whilst Croydon is keeping all information close to their chest, their partners at Wandsworth are keen to share. Is the relationship already showing the strain of joint working, we wonder?
Cllr Cook continues to effuse,
A statement perhaps far more dubious than merely curious."At the end of this process the bedrock of our service will be unchanged: great books, comfortable surroundings and skilled staff."
Let's put the real situation in context.
Croydon have already admitted realising savings in the region of £350K through an internal reshuffle, one that resulted in the loss of many of the most experienced staff and qualified librarians, leaving Croydon libraries under staffed and unable to cope, despite the valiant efforts of the remaining staff.
A list of the real and measurable effects of these back door cuts, as noted by residents across the borough, was presented to Cllr Sara Bashford at a shadow cabinet meeting. Although indicating publicly that she took these very seriously and offering to investigate the issues she then had a lapse of memory and responded on only two very minor points raised at one location only. Being reminded of her promise, she then requested the details in writing which a campaign spokesperson was happy to provide, along with further examples that had occurred since the original shadow cabinet meeting. Despite this, Cllr Bashford seems not only incapable of responding to the points but appears to actually have struggled to comprehend the issues put to her, or their significance.
Wandsworth, in the Library Service Market testing paper (Paper No 11-683) here: http://ww3.wandsworth.gov.uk/moderngov/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=499&MID=3591#AI22158,
which you can read in PDF form here:
http://ww3.wandsworth.gov.uk/moderngov/documents/s14838/Paper%20No.%2011-683.pdf already refers to the rather more substantial savings made of £900K!
This was realised through reduced opening hours, presumably including the turning York Gardens over to the community, who need not only find volunteers in sufficient numbers to man the library but fundraise to the tune of £70K per annum to keep it running. Savings were also made in reviews of senior management (that's job losses of senior experienced and professionally qualified staff in less rosy terms) and savings on book stock.
The specifics from the document are as follows, so readers can verify the astonishing details and figures for themselves.
Dare we mention to Cllr Cook that when he refers to, "the bedrock of our service" being unchanged this is hardly inspiring when residents in both boroughs have already seen a drastic reduction in the service on offer?
It's inspiring to refer to,
"great books"being on offer, but Wandsworth already admit publicly to the reduction in their book stock and many residents in Croydon have mentioned the cull in book stock going on at several locations in the borough.
Then there is the reference to,
"comfortable surroundings"Not hard to improve on when the fabric of most of Croydon's libraries has received very little investment for many years. Perhaps we should suggest Cllr Cook share some of his magical positivity and suggest to Cllr Bashford that she sell it to Croydon residents and prospective bidders as shabby chic a la Croydon.
And Cllr Cook, on a high, digs himself in even deeper, finishing with the promise,
"and skilled staff."If Croydon or Wandsworth had any intention of valuing staff they would not have eroded the one valuable resource their libraries did have. We can't speak for Wandsworth but Croydon campaigners know only too well how much residents value experienced library staff and qualified librarians, many having been lost in the
It really saddens library users to see the valiant attempts of the existing staff, doing their utmost to make libraries work, under very difficult circumstances. We can't possibly know the internal workings and changes that have been made. What we do know though is the measurable impact it has had on the service on offer and we are very concerned for the well-being of all library staff left. Again this concern was shared with Cllr Bashford at the shadow cabinet meeting.
So there we have it. Two councils embarking on working together, already showing the strain of this new relationship, with Croydon desperately trying to shake off their existing tie with Lambeth.
Cllr Bashford was so out of her depth to start with she was even announcing to residents in public meetings that libraries were "a nice to have, not a must have" and referred to them as "non statutory" or "discretionary" until residents pointed out the small matter of the 1964 Act. It would appear she was trying to convince Croydon residents that they were in no way entitled to a library service.
And, probably most worryingly, we have two councils who, by their actions, are actively dismantling their library services, but are unable or unwilling to see the impact of this and the problems that this is causing. Yet they feel they are well equipped to not only pass judgement on the proposals put forward from those bidding to run the service but are capable of monitoring this effectively.
But let's not let reality put a dampener on their bold steps and big ideas. We leave you with the final words of Cllr Jonathan Cook,
"Competitive tendering has reformed many town hall services –he end of this process leisure centres, refuse collection and meals on wheels to name a few. The results have been improved delivery, new innovation and better value for money. This is what we are looking for with our libraries.
We should not stop here. We must rationalise the public library services at a regional level. In London, eight million people are served by 33 different library services with 33 sets of overheads; this makes no sense, and is no longer affordable.
First we will team up with Croydon, next we must look to share our costs and buying power with more of our neighbours. Councils still considering a library closure programme should follow this process closely. We believe there is another way."It appears Cllr Cook really believes he can save not only Croydon and Wandsworth libraries but that he can save London libraries too!
Next step, he'll be saving the world, no doubt!
Should you wish to support Friends of York Gardens Library to fundraise or volunteer http://saveyorkgardens.com/ or follow them on twitter at @SaveYGLibrary
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