Residents express outrage over Rutland County Council’s unexpected plan to close Ryhall Library, a vital community hub.
Ryhall: The news about the library closing has really hit home for the locals. People are feeling shocked and angry about it.
Rutland County Council wants to shut down Ryhall Library instead of fixing it up, which is a total surprise since they had promised renovations.
Just a few months ago, they said the library would be turned into a community hub. Now, it feels like a slap in the face.
On Tuesday, a bunch of folks gathered at the library to brainstorm how to fight back. They’re not going down without a fight.
Deborah Rolfe, the chairperson of the parish council, said it was a huge shock and they’re not on board with this plan at all.
She emphasized how important the library is for the community. It’s not just about books; it’s a gathering place.
The council claims fixing the library would cost around £250,000, but they only have £70,000 set aside. So, they think closing it is the best option.
In just five days, the council will decide the library’s fate, and they haven’t even talked to the residents about it.
Andrew Nebel, a local councillor, is worried the council is inflating repair costs to justify the closure. He believes there are affordable fixes that could be done.
He said, “Let’s not make perfect the enemy of good.” It’s all about finding a balance.
Later this month, there will be a consultation about other library options, but it won’t even consider keeping the current building open.
Ryhall Library also serves as a warm hub, which is crucial for many residents.
As soon as the closure news broke, locals jumped into action, meeting at the library to share their thoughts.
Councillor Kevin Corby was just as blindsided as everyone else. He found out about the closure through a public statement, and he was left ‘gobsmacked’.
He had been in meetings discussing improvements, and no one mentioned closing the library.
Corby expressed frustration, saying they need to be treated like adults, not kids being told what to do.
Another councillor, David Wilby, also felt left out of the loop and thinks the lack of communication has really fired people up.
The council’s report suggests three options: minor repairs, major repairs, or closing the library. They’re leaning towards closure.
They even want to declare the site as surplus, which means they could sell it off.
Sandra Chapman, a long-time resident, was shocked too. She pointed out how the library is a central part of the village.
It’s not just about books; it’s a warm space where people gather for various reasons.
Despite the council saying the library only gets about 102 visitors a month, campaigners are questioning how they came up with that number.
The library is open three days a week and serves as a warm hub for the community.
Sharon Mosley couldn’t believe the news, and her husband Keith called the decision ‘shameful’.
The parish council is holding a special meeting soon to come up with a formal response before the cabinet meeting.
Petitions against the closure are already gathering hundreds of signatures, and a protest is planned outside the council chamber.
Campaigners are even going door-to-door to get more signatures, and you can find copies of the petition at local spots like the village store and pubs.
