Lewisham consultation on libraries (budget cuts)

I saw this via News Shopper:

Lewisham is consulting on ‘Re-engaging our audiences’ (aka library users) to guide them on how to implement budget cuts.

https://consultation.lewisham.gov.uk/library-and-information-service/re-engaging-our-audiences/

Apparently “Lewisham has some of the best-used libraries in the country”, which surprised me as Lewisham only runs 4 libraries, the other 8 are community libraries. The community libraries aren’t part of this engagement exercise but it looks like the other services are, ie Home Library Service (I didn’t know there was one); Archive and Local History Service; and E-library.

The deadline for responding to the survey is 5pm on Wednesday 21st July 2021.

"Voluntary and community groups are now able to apply for funding through the Council’s Main Grants Programme for 2022-25.

Lewisham’s Main Grants Programme has been operational for over 20 years, providing funding to a range of local organisations from the voluntary and community sector (VCS). The programme has been renewed for 2022-25, following extensive consultation with voluntary and community groups in Lewisham.

Despite the challenges posed by central government cuts, the Council has committed more than £7 million in grant funding over the next three years, with local groups set to receive £2.36 million each year to support their work in the community.

Applications are now open for this new round of funding and VCS organisations are being encouraged to apply."

Here’s an idea, how about a publicly funded public library in Forest Hill, run by the Council?

Seems to be plenty of money around. I keep getting emails about grants available e.g.