ASSURANCES have been made that no libraries will close under proposals going before the Vale council.

On Monday, April 28 the council's cabinet will consider a report on the future of library services in the Vale.

Council leader Neil Moore said: “No changes to library services in the Vale have been agreed.

"However, due to the financial pressure that we are currently facing, cabinet will later this month be considering a report on the future of libraries in the Vale. No library closures are being proposed.

"The proposed changes that will be given consideration are the result of an in-depth review of the library service and have been shaped by a programme of consultation with both library users and library staff.

"Following consideration by cabinet, the report will then be referred to the lifelong learning scrutiny committee for their comment.

"Further engagement with the local community will also be required.”

Following the review the council has begun preliminary discussions with library staff about what the changes, if implemented, could mean for them.

Cllr Moore said: “It is our policy to engage with staff at the earliest opportunity on issues that may affect them. For this reason library managers have had some initial discussions with staff.

"In the event of any change to how library services are delivered we will work very hard to ensure that any impact on staff is minimal."