County Council to Run Suffolk's Libraries

Despite opposition, it’s been confirmed that Suffolk County Council will bring Library Services back In-House.

All 45 libraries will be back under its care and control from the 1st June, following the decision made at a Cabinet meeting this week.

MPs and District Councils had been opposed to the move - without more consultation with local people.

The County Council says that the new structure will ensure continued access to high-quality, community-focused library services across the county. As part of this move, the council plans to:

• Keep all 45 libraries open
• Maintain opening hours
• Create job security for all frontline staff
• Secure a sustainable future for Suffolk’s library services

In addition to continuing its core library services, the council is investing £200,000 in mobile libraries, with a further £157,000 for new books and to replace public computers in libraries across Suffolk.

Libraries have long been at the heart of Suffolk’s communities. They are essential spaces for learning, connection, and support, and the council is committed to ensuring they remain hubs that bring people together. The focus is on building upon the excellent services already provided, strengthening libraries' role as trusted local resources that meet the evolving needs of residents.

Looking to the future, Suffolk County Council envisions libraries becoming even more integrated into the wider community, serving as convenient access points for a range of essential council services. This includes providing information and support around Adult Social Care, offering health and social care services, facilitating Family Hub activities, and promoting digital inclusion. The aim is to make it easier for residents to access vital services and support, all within the welcoming, familiar setting of their local library.

Cllr Philip Faircloth Mutton, Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality said “This was an incredibly difficult, but important decision for the future of our Library Service. Libraries are more than just places to borrow books—they are community spaces where people can access vital services, learn new skills, and build connections.

With this decision, we are securing a bright future for all 45 libraries across the county, ensuring they remain accessible, vibrant, and sustainable for generations to come.”

Suffolk County Council would like to express its sincere gratitude to Suffolk Libraries, who have run the library contract for the past 12 years. Their passion and hard work have been integral to the success of library services in the county, and the council appreciates all they have done to support local communities. We look forward to welcoming library staff back into the county council and continuing to support them in delivering outstanding services to the public.

We would also like to thank the 1,250 volunteers whose commitment has been essential in delivering high-quality services to residents across Suffolk. As we transition the library service back under council control, we remain fully committed to working with our volunteers. Their invaluable contributions will continue to play a central role in the future of our libraries, and we are excited to explore new opportunities to expand volunteer involvement.

The library service will officially return to Suffolk County Council control on 1st June 2025.