‘The council can dress this up how they like , but the fact remains that closing libraries is an attack on the poorest people in Havering.’

Closing libraries is an act of cruelty, a Save Our Libraries protest was held outside of the Town Hall in Romford yesterday (4 September) with a fantastic turnout.

The event was organised by Havering Unison and had support from many locals angered by the current Administration’s plans to close four libraries-Harold Wood, Gidea Park, Collier Row, and Elm Park. The protest also had the backing of the Conservative councillors and Labour councillors who were present outside the Town Hall.

Mark Whiley from the Green Party spoke first and informed residents that five petitions and a motion was being handed over to councillors at the Full Council Meeting. The motion is to stop the closure of the four libraries.

Mark spoke about the incredible impact libraries have had on our residents, how locals have now achieved jobs such a engineers thanks to studying in our libraries and how they have helped so many people who are lonely by providing them with a place to meet others.

Poignantly Mark also spoke about how many years ago it was the Rate Payers as they were once known, who fought so hard to have our libraries and now it is the Havering Residents Association who plan to close these very same libraries.

Alan WIley, a library worker from Islington and National Library Campaigner also joined the protest. He said: “I bring solidarity from library workers up and down the country. I’m glad to be here to support this campaign tonight but also very sad as this is happening up and down the country. We were pinning our hopes that the new Labour government would take this seriously. I asked for a meeting with the new Libraries Minister Chris Bryant and with the new Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, but apparently they are too busy to meet with me.

“Havering Council have a legal responsibility under the 1964 Act to provide a comprehensive and efficient library service. And a library service who is inclusive and available to all. If you look at their own library strategy on page four, they openly admit that they can’t fulfill these duties.”

Alan then quoted: “Some areas of deprivation or low educational attainment, are likely to be negatively impacted by the closure of a branch library in that area.” The poorest and most vulnerable in our communities, the very people who should be prioritised and supported, will be cast adrift.

“Public libraries cost a pittance to run,” continued Alan.

Crowds listening were cheering at the support the Save Our Libraries campaign has received and at this very powerful protest.

Local activist and Havering Daily contributor Ruth Kettle-Frisby also spoke to the crowd. She said: “Closing libraries is an act of cruelty. I’m shocked but sadly not surprised by the HRA council to close these four libraries in our borough. It shows a complete lack of imagination and appreciation of what libraries mean to and for our local communities. The council can dress this up how they like , but the fact remains that closing libraries is an attack on the poorest people in Havering.”

Protesters then sat in the evening’s Full Council meeting to watch the four petitions being handed over.

Stay up to date with all of our latest updates and content by following us on our social media accounts!

We have created community pages where we will share our up-to-date stories happening in the area. Add the area closest to where you live.

Support Local Journalism
We at The Havering Daily appreciate your support of quality journalism. Your generous donation, no matter the size, allows us to continue bringing unbiased and informative news to the community. Your contribution helps us maintain our independence and allows us to continue providing high-quality journalism. Thank you for valuing the work we do and for supporting our mission

Thank you