Birmingham reveals plans for its libraries: 28 will remain open, providing community services, while 7 face potential closure.
Now, 28 libraries will stay open. But, seven still risk closure. Sadly, two libraries will close for good. All libraries will have shorter hours, and some library jobs will also disappear.
The Library of Birmingham stays open six days a week. Ten libraries will open four days a week, acting as community hubs. Fourteen others open three days each week. Seven more need community partners to survive.
These places will offer advice services too. They will rebrand as ‘Connected Communities’.
Spring Hill Library will close permanently, having previously served Ladywood residents. Tower Hill Library is also closing down. Author Lee Child found it inspiring as a kid.
These measures are better than first planned. Earlier plans meant more closures and very limited service. The city council discussed these plans in both public talks and private meetings.
A council member thanked everyone involved, stating feedback helped shape library services. The plan keeps libraries and advice open, providing safe spaces for everyone.
The Library of Birmingham will open six days for a total of 40 hours. It will also have an express service, providing additional hours weekly.
Ten community libraries will open four days a week. This comes to a total of 28 hours, in various locations throughout Birmingham.
Balsall Heath Library will reopen in 2026. Thirteen community libraries open three days, equaling a total of 21 hours.
Aston Library stays in its current spot. Harborne Library may share space to stay put, and Selly Oak Library will also remain where it is. Tower Hill Library will close down, and the council seeks a new shared space.
Seven libraries need community partners to stay open. Otherwise, those libraries will close completely.
The council consulted the public three times. Libraries are important, especially in poor areas. Total library hours will drop by a third overall. The council wants libraries as services, not just buildings.
The council knows some disagree with the plan and oppose cutting council-run services. To manage some library services without its direct funding, the council needs partners. The council will offer support by supplying books and digital services, and also invests in community spaces.
Birmingham Loves Libraries is still concerned. They fear cuts due to government pressure, but acknowledge the council is listening to the public. Libraries matter to communities. Questions remain about staff and relocating libraries. They will keep a close watch on the plan’s progress.
The library budget will decrease by 37%. Library staff jobs will disappear, and people must reapply for new roles. There will probably be fewer jobs overall. Government commissioners support the plan, saying it relies on partner support.
