BOOK worms in Ludlow and south Shropshire are being reminded not to forget to have a say in the future of library services.

Shropshire Council is seeking views on the future of libraries in the county.

Whilst the consultation does not close until early October people should not forget about it because of holidays and other distractions.

The strategy sets out the council’s vision for libraries.

It also addresses challenges for library services – traditional usage has been declining in recent years, the way that people use library services is shifting and the financial situation remains difficult, say Shropshire Council.

It includes a number of proposals including a number of larger ‘hub’ libraries, smaller libraries and mobile libraries.

“Shropshire’s draft library services strategy does not set out to close any existing libraries,” said Lezley Picton, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member for culture and leisure.

“However, based on a thorough review of the usage and location of existing mobile-library stops, the consultation makes a specific recommendation to reduce the number of stops from 354 to 277.

“We are very keen to get as wide a response as possible to the consultation, from stakeholders, users and non-users. So I would really encourage everyone to get involved and take part to help us ensure libraries remain at the heart of our communities.”

An online survey will run until early October. During this time Shropshire Council will also meet with community groups who currently manage some of the libraries, library friends groups, town and parish councils and staff to discuss the proposals and seek feedback.

To take part in the survey go to https://shropshire.gov.uk/ and click on the Get Involved page.

Paper copies of the survey will also be available from libraries and mobile libraries. The survey closes on Friday, October 6.