Haringey's Libraries: A £4.9m Facelift, But Reduced Opening Hours
Haringey residents are celebrating the reopening of Muswell Hill Library, following much delayed works. The investment is part of a £4.9 million council investment in libraries across the borough. The Grade II-listed building now boasts a new lift, accessible toilets, and a dedicated youth area, hailed by Cllr Emily Arkell as “future proofing” facilities. Yet, this welcome news arrives with a significant caveat: the simultaneous implementation of new, reduced operating hours across the borough’s library network.
Opening Hours Reduced
From September 29, Muswell Hill Library itself will close on Thursdays, with other weekdays and Saturdays seeing shorter hours. This pattern is echoed across Haringey, with Alexandra Park, Highgate, and Stroud Green libraries now open just four days a week. While Hornsey and Marcus Garvey libraries will offer seven-day service, the overall picture is one of diminished access for many.
The council frames these changes as an “economy drive,” prioritising “limited resources serving communities with the greatest needs” to save £675,000 annually. This comes as Haringey looks to make savings, following accepting £65 million in Exceptional Financial Support from central government, having not been able to balance its budget.
Are Library Services the Place to Make Cuts?
While capital investment in modern facilities is important, the simultaneous reduction in operational hours raises questions about the long-term vision for public access. The council claims making these hours permanent means “increased certainty over the availability of library provision”, but they are a reduction from previous levels. Public feedback continues to voice concerns about the impact on vulnerable groups, despite council claims of mitigation.
As Haringey Council navigates its financial tightrope, there is a question over whether libraries are the right place to make cuts. How can it ensure these vital community hubs remain genuinely accessible and serve all residents, when the doors are open less often?