Felixstowe: Uncertainty voiced over how cash will be raised for library

Community leaders in Felixstowe have agreed to represent the town on the new organisation running the county’s libraries – but are not pledging any money towards its running costs.

Felixstowe has been told it needs to raise £5,200 a year towards the town’s library in Crescent Road, but as yet it is uncertain how the sum will be provided.

The town council could give a grant from its community fund, but it is hoped a fundraising organisation – such as a Friends group, which many charities rely on – could be set up.

Alternatively the library management could raise the money through a variety of means, including making savings, though this would harm any plans they may have to develop services and activities, or by fundraising events or business-related moves such as getting its wifi or other services sponsored.

Felixstowe Town Council has agreed to join the Suffolk Libraries Industrial and Provident Society.

Chris Slemmings, chairman of the finance and general purposes committee, said: “The town council will represent the town and continue to support the library, but at this stage we are not making any commitment towards the £5,200.

“We might, of course, choose to make a contribution in the future, depending on circumstances at that time.”

Councillor Michael Sharman said the council might need to consider financial help if the public wanted extra services.

Councillor Joan Sennington added: “The £5,200 is required every year and is not a one-off demand.

“We don’t understand fully what will happen if the community doesn’t manage to raise this money.”