A statement from Libraries Unlimited

A spokesperson for Libraries Unlimited said:

“We can confirm that, in light of the need to make savings of £1.5 million by the end of 2017/18 as part of the contract with Devon County Council, our Board of trustees have approved recommendations to withdraw enhanced pay for weekend working. The changes to enhanced pay come at a time of financial austerity, when local authorities across the country are looking to reshape, reorganise and rejuvenate library services.  To date, not one library in Devon has had to close its doors, and our aim is to keep it that way. Since our launch in April 2016, we have been developing new and innovative ways of delivering our services and we will continue to do so, ensuring that the people of Devon will continue to benefit from library services.

“The Board carefully considered a number of recommendations following an 8-week consultation with staff and trade unions and a thorough analysis of consultation feedback from staff. As an independent charity, responsible for the running of all of Devon’s library services, we have to run efficiently and effectively to ensure we are able to keep public services running and our libraries open for people across Devon.

“The changes to enhanced pay will have a significant financial impact on our organisation. We appreciate that the changes will affect individuals in different ways, depending on their personal circumstances, and are working with staff to try and mitigate the changes.

“Libraries have a huge contribution to the lives of local communities, encouraging children to develop a love of reading, supporting the health and wellbeing of local people and providing information and support to people at all stages of their lives. Libraries Unlimited is committed to sustaining and increasing use of libraries across the county and needs to be business-like in its approach to ensure that, in this challenging financial environment, we can afford to deliver these much-needed public services in our local communities.”