13 libraries across Aberdeenshire to be shut down by end of year amid 'low user numbers'

Over a dozen libraries across Aberdeenshire are set to close down by the end of the year, the council has confirmed.

Live Life Aberdeenshire (LLA) said the move comes following a review of 13 libraries where lower usage has been noted in recent years.

Areas set to lose their library include Cruden Bay, Kintore, Newtonhill and Strichen, with some of the buildings deemed no longer suitable for ongoing provision.

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LLA said 'click and collect' services will still be accessible as will local outreach activities.

Staff have been informed of the plans and redeployment opportunities will now be explored, with customers thanked for their support of the venues down the years.

A Live Life Aberdeenshire spokesperson said: "As part of our ongoing strategy for delivery of a sustainable, fit for purpose library service across Aberdeenshire, a decision has been taken to end the use of 13 library buildings by the end of the year.

"These are in locations where libraries have seen lower numbers of users over the years and have been operating on a part-time basis for some time, or where the buildings are simply no longer suitable for ongoing provision.

"This does not mean an end to library services in these communities, however. We will continue to provide access to services via our popular ‘click & collect’ and doorstep delivery options, through local outreach activities, and ongoing access to various digital services.

"We will retain a core provision of 18 libraries in our main towns, in line with the council’s place strategy. Staff have been informed of the plans and we will now explore redeployment opportunities.

"We would like to thank our customers for their support of these venues over the years and will share local information about access to services over the coming weeks."

Which libraries will close?

The library buildings that will close are as follows:

• Balmedie Library

• Boddam Library

• Cairnbulg Library

• Cruden Bay Library

• Insch Library

• Inverbervie Library

• Kintore Library

• Macduff Library

• New Pitsligo Library

• Newmachar Library

• Newtonhill Library

• Rosehearty Library

• Strichen Library