Thirteen Aberdeenshire Libraries Slated for Closure

The intention to close 13 library facilities in Aberdeenshire by the close of the year has been made public. Live Life Aberdeenshire, the organization responsible for delivering services on behalf of the council, indicated that these particular locations have experienced a decrease in user numbers in recent years. The specific library buildings identified for closure are situated in Balmedie, Boddam, Cairnbulg, Cruden Bay, Insch, Inverbervie, Kintore, Macduff, New Pitsligo, Newmachar, Newtonhill, Rosehearty, and Strichen. Live Life Aberdeenshire confirmed that 18 libraries located in “main towns” will continue to operate. A statement from the organization indicated: “As part of our ongoing strategy for delivery of a sustainable, fit-for-purpose library service across Aberdeenshire, a decision has been taken to end the use of 13 library buildings by the end of the year. These are in locations where libraries have seen lower numbers of users over the years and have been operating on a part-time basis for some time, or where the buildings are simply no longer suitable for ongoing provision. This does not mean an end to library services in these communities, however. We will continue to provide access to services via our popular ‘click & collect’ and doorstep delivery options, through local outreach activities, and ongoing access to various digital services.” The statement additionally noted: “We will retain a core provision of 18 libraries in our main towns, in line with the council’s place strategy. Staff have been informed of the plans and we will now explore redeployment opportunities. We would like to thank our customers for their support of these venues over the years and will share local information about access to services over the coming weeks.”