WARRINGTON North MP Helen Jones has launched a new attack on library operator LiveWire.
She claims a threat hangs over Padgate Library – while at the same time there is a shortage of books at University Academy Warrington next door.
Ms Jones said: “This situation is fast becoming like something from Alice in Wonderland. The University Academy is short of books – while LiveWire are proposing to close the library next door! You just couldn’t make it up.
“Surely, it cannot be beyond the wit of the school and LiveWire to team up and ensure the library becomes a real asset to the school.”
The MP’s criticisms followed a finding by Ofsted that the Universty Academy did not have enough books.
But LiveWire responded swiftly to the criticism.
A spokesperson said: “No decisions have been made about the future of Padgate Library and we are still discussing options for the library with a range of partners.
“We met with the head teacher at University Academy Warrington last month to discuss working together more closely.
“Both LiveWire and the school are committed to encouraging more pupils and their families to access reading and learning resources in the future.”
Poulton North councillors Graham Friend and Diana Bennett issued a joint statement, reaffirming their commitment to negotiating a solution to the ongoing problems.
They said: “We will be speaking to the school about extending its co-operation with the library. This seems to us to be a real opportunity and makes the argument to keep Padgate Library open even more compelling. All children should have access to the widest possible range of books – we are committed to making sure that students at University Academy do not miss out on the opportunities that a well-stocked and well-services library provides.”
