Buckingham Library hours slashed as automated system takes over

Buckinghamshire Council is proposing to reduce staffed opening hours at Buckingham Library by up to 30%, and to operate an unstaffed, automated Library Flex Entry system at other times.

Cllr Anja Schaefer says: 
“I have grave concerns over these changes. Long hours of unsupervised library access to anyone with a library card pose a potential safety issue.

“And what happens if something goes wrong with the electronic system, perhaps when a community group is using the library during Flex hours? How long would it take for security to get to Buckingham?

“Libraries are a community hub and librarians make it a welcoming place. Buckingham Library is also the only physical contact point for Bucks Council in the north of the county and an important designated ‘warm space’.

“In short, this feels like a proposal that will reduce access to a vital service with potential technical and safety issues.”