Keeping libraries open during major events

Leith Walk Lib Dem Councillor Caldwell has won assurances that the Council will now start tracking closures.

Councillor Jack Caldwell said: "Libraries are precious spaces, & given the Council's just reviewed timings - should be open for communities. I was disappointed last summer Leith Library was closed for the 2024 General Election. Last month, I was glad to get cross party support to start formally tracking Edinburgh library availability."

The full amendment text reads:

Committee adds

1.1.4 Notes the temporary library closures mentioned under the ‘Communities’ section, including Wester Hailes and Blackhall, but also notes additional closures such as
Currie, Corstorphine, Craigmillar, Fountainbridge (partial), Leith, Stockbridge and South Queensferry Libraries respectively at the General Election last year.

1.1.5 Therefore requests consideration is given to both monitoring and a target going forward of how often the current library estate is available to communities.