July 22nd, 2024 — Since proposals to close 4 out of 5 of Havering’s branch libraries were announced in May, campaigners from the BDH Green Party have:
- Consistently been in the press – both the Havering Daily and Romford Recorder
- Knocking on hundreds of doors with our Save Our Library Service petition and setting up an online petition this month for Gidea Park Library at www.bit.ly/gidealibraries
- Promoting public consultations through street letters to local residents
- Attending a rally alongside members of Havering UNISON at the first public consultation at Havering Town Hall
- Attending a second rally at Harold Wood Library alongside local school children and councillors
- Putting questions to Leader of the Council, Cllr Ray Morgon at a public consultation
Our appearance at the Town Hall Rally was livestreamed by the Havering Daily, interviewing three of our campaigners: Angelina Leatherbarrow, Mark Whiley and Ruth Kettle-Frisby.
Link: https://www.facebook.com/thehaveringdaily/videos/499031082589382
Romford campaigner and library worker (in another borough) Angelina Leatherbarrow told the Havering Daily, “You cannot underestimate how vital libraries are, and typically local authorities talk about the cost of everything and the value of nothing”. Angelina spoke about the role libraries play as a community hub, in youth intervention, as warm spaces, as social spaces, as study spaces, and as public spaces without cost.
Mark Whiley, campaigner in Squirrels Heath ward, spoke about libraries as places “where families and their kids are going to enjoy community activities, read stories, and they’re vital community hubs for us”. Mark spoke further about their role in bringing communities together, particularly after the pandemic, and also about the Green’s plans to fund essential works to library buildings using either developer contributions, specific government grant schemes, or colocation with other services.
Ruth Kettle-Frisby said that access library services “cross boundaries” as they’re used by those of all classes and all backgrounds. “The arts are so important for our children, and for elderly people, and for everyone in-between. I think arts and culture can make all the difference to a person’s mental health, wellbeing and sense of belonging”.
Help us campaign against library cuts
We’ll be continuing to attend public consultations, organise rallies, deliver information to residents, and to get new signatures on our petitions.
If you’d like to help, please contact Mark at greenparty@markwhiley.com.