TWO or three libraries in Enfield could close during a belt tightening exercise this year, the finance boss has told residents.

Councillor Andrew Stafford said at meetings with residents earlier this year that there “may be too many libraries” in the borough, and suggested some could close as the council seeks to make £1.5m savings over the next four years.

The comments came to light during last Wednesday's Full Council meeting, as opposition Tory councillors called for an open debate on the issue.

The future of Enfield's 16 libraries has been under review for the last year, and proposals are expected to be delivered in the next few months.

Councillor Doug Taylor, leader of the council, promised a full consultation with residents on any plans put forward, and warned against anyone jumping to conclusions.

He said: “We value our libraries – we have 16, the most in any borough – and we want to be imaginative in service delivery.

“There have been no decisions about how best to make savings.”

Cllr Stafford, who is cabinet member for finance, confirmed he had made the comments attributed to him, but said there were ongoing discussions on the best way forward.

He said: “Out of the 16 libraries, I have thought the recommendations are likely to be to close some of them.

“But when the report is finalised and comes out, it may be that they disagree.”

He stressed discussions were still underway, and said other options being considered include cutting the number of library staff, merging some of the smaller libraries that are closer together, or to introduce electronic systems which would streamline the library services.

Councillor Henry Lamprecht, deputy leader of the Tory group, said the public deserves clarity on the future of libraries.

He said: “Some councillors are saying the libraries are safe, but then the man with the purse strings is saying we are going to have to look at closing up to three of them.

“It is very worrying that they are looking at this, and we need to find out where the truth lies.”

What do you think? Are there too many libraries in Enfield, and could some of them close or be merged? Leave your comments below.