Birmingham library plans face public scrutiny amid fears that the cuts will worsen child poverty in the community.
Some councillors challenged the library downgrades. Councillors from different parties joined together. They want the council to explain the changes publicly.
The council planned different opening hours. Ten libraries would open at least four days weekly. Fourteen more would open three days each week. Seven libraries risked closure without funding. The council’s plan faced public opposition.
A committee will discuss the plan on March 5th. They will stream the meeting online for all.
Some councillors disagree with closing libraries. They say it hurts the digital inclusion strategy. Libraries help people get online access. Poor families rely on libraries for this too. Councillors also think the plan lacks detail. The proposals don’t clarify opening times or days.
They also question the consultation process quality. A council leader thinks the cuts hurt communities. Libraries offer key help and support. He says Labour hides cuts behind service talk. They want to save the libraries.
Another councillor says the plan harms residents. Reduced services impact students and job seekers most. Council failures affect real lives. The review aims to hold them to account.