Concerns have been raised over a new scheme that will see a city library open unstaffed.

St John’s Library is part of the county council’s rollout of Libraries Unlocked, which is designed to keep libraries open for longer hours.

Marcus Hart, cabinet member for communities at Worcestershire County Council, said: “Many of our residents and community groups are unable to visit libraries within the usual 9am to 5pm opening times.”

He said there had been good feedback from pilot schemes in Droitwich and Stourport, where there has been an 85% increase in the number of hours the libraries are open for.

But St John’s councillors have concerns about the change.

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County and city councillor Richard Udall said: “Libraries need librarians.  

“At St John's Library the staff do so much hard work, they are helping library users all day long.

“Especially with technology, finding books and with helping residents with information.

“This will mean children under 16 will not be able to visit the library without an adult. I know many young people visit the library as a sanctuary, they explore literature and use the computers - it’s a safe place, parents know where they are and know what they are doing.

“The freedom for children to use the library without an adult will be removed, this cannot be a good thing.”

Cllr Udall also expressed concern for the future of clubs run by library staff and said the proposal should be reconsidered by the council.

City councillor Robyn Norfolk said: “I have genuine concerns about public buildings being open where there are no staff.

“I’m a book lover. Growing up, librarians were a core part of the library experience. At school, during the school holidays, researching homework - the librarian was ever present and ever helpful.

“St John’s councillors run a regular surgery in St John’s library. In my experience, the librarians have always been helping someone, be it looking for a book or working on the library's computers.

“I also have genuine concerns about safety. I can see a commitment to installing CCTV, but that really isn't a replacement for a human being when help is urgently needed.”

Cllr Hart added: “We have been talking to young people, and will continue to do so, about when they prefer to visit the library unaccompanied and this is taken into consideration when the staffed hours are planned to ensure these are covered.

“Young people are also able to use the library during the additional hours the library will be open in the evenings and early in the morning by visiting with a Libraries Unlocked member.”