Councillors discuss changes to Surrey library services

Councillors are to meet to discuss plans to overhaul library services in Surrey that could see some facilities lose paid staff.

The Conservative-led county council wants to devolve responsibilities at some of its 52 libraries to help save £400,000 a year.

Opposition councillors previously said the plans would force communities to volunteer or lose their libraries.

Deputy leader David Hodge said its aim was to prevent library closures.

Under the plans, the council would continue to provide buildings, stock, IT equipment and other services but communities would take over the day-to-day running of 19 libraries.

A select committee will meet on Wednesday to discuss the review of library services.

A decision is due to be made on 27 September at the county's cabinet meeting.