Newspaper service returns to county's libraries (From Burnham & Highbridge Weekly News)

Newspaper service returns to county's libraries

1:10pm Saturday 4th July 2009

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PEOPLE in Somerset will be able to access free national newspapers in the county’s libraries thanks to a £13,000 saving.

Somerset County Council removed the supply from several libraries last month but can reinstate the service since councillors agreed to scrap free meals for themselves at County Hall.

The service costs taxpayers £10,000 a year with the extra £3,000 to be ploughed back into front line services.

Cllr Christine Lawrence, cabinet member for community said: “It was clear that the decision to withdraw national newspapers from several libraries was an unpopular decision.

"After examining the situation we have been able to find a cost saving with regards to ending free members lunches.

"I am confident that the public will welcome this decision as evidence of this council’s determination to put front line services and not members expenses at the forefront of everything we do.”

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