I passionately care about our library service.

One of the first things I did when elected councillor was meet the head of libraries at our local libraries – Grove Vale and Dulwich Library – for a full tour. After much badgering Dulwich Library was opened for a 7th day each week and is now a seven days a week service. It was great that library staff in conjunction with their union agreed staffing roster changes making this possible. This has seen a doubling in weekly baby and toddler group attendance from 125 Dec’08 to 268 Dec’09 despite the snow. Weekly films clubs. Hopefully, we’ll have some adult learning soon rather than asking East Dulwich residents to trudge over to Peckham.

I’ve asked on many occasions whether a similar change for Grove Vale could be made. What days would you find it most helpful IF Grove Vale library could be open more? I’m hopeful that early in the next Financial Year something may be possible…

With an expanding population we need to grow our libraries. Opening for more hours helps but physically making more space for users. I’ve proposed a modest, very cheap, increase to Dulwich Library. Fingers crossed this rearranging will come to pass.