Woodston Library campaigners declare “stalemate” with council

Advocates working to preserve their neighborhood library, which faces potential sale, have declared a “stalemate” in their discussions with the local authority. The Friends of Woodston Library organization stated that the suggestion for the library to operate under community management for a year, as a trial of its long-term feasibility, was “sprung” on them, and they lack the necessary financial resources for such an undertaking. The Orchard Street library, established 73 years ago, is included among the assets Peterborough City Council is evaluating for sale or alternative use to address a significant financial deficit. Mohammed Jamil, Labour’s deputy council leader, indicated that the process of making decisions concerning the library has been “paused” to enable the group to investigate “new operating models.” He explained that although the library would not receive financial support from the council, its operations could be sustained through fundraising efforts or grants from external sources. Jennie Storey, representing the Friends of Woodston Library, affirmed that her organization intends to “continue the campaign” following the submission of a petition to the council requesting the library’s continued operation. She commented, “We’re in a bit of a stalemate, but we’re not giving up.” The council “noted” the petition presented by Ms. Storey, which garnered over 600 signatures, but neither endorsed it nor proposed an alternative solution. Ms. Storey mentioned that the group has since contacted a local Member of Parliament as they persist in advocating for the library to function with financial backing from the council. A proposition by Jamil, suggesting the council refrain from further action to permit the commencement of a 12-month trial, was rejected by most councillors. Nevertheless, the council stated that this trial would still proceed. The Labour councillor stated subsequent to the meeting that the council was “proposing a year-long trial, and will be working proactively together with the Friends group to explore new operating models.” He elaborated, “This will include the use of volunteers to extend opening hours, seeking ways to generate funding from external grants, exploring opportunities for income generation and fundraising, etc.” The deputy leader further remarked that the council faced its “most challenging financial position ever” in anticipation of its upcoming budget, scheduled for publication the following week. He stated, “Everyone has a right to keep their community centre or library open, but unfortunately the financial situation this council finds itself in does not allow that.” The Friends group indicated it would not contemplate assuming responsibility for the library’s operation independently while substantial repairs, costing tens of thousands of pounds, are required. Ms. Storey commented, “with regards to the money, they [the council] say they can’t afford to run it – we would say they can’t afford to close it.”