ANGRY residents have hit out at a council consultation which threatens the future of Somerset libraries saying they are determined to fight it.

Somerset County Council launched a 12 week consultation over the future of county libraries on January 29.

Under the plans, 15 of 34 libraries could close unless ‘community involvement’ is found to keep them running.

But if nothing can be arranged, many face closure, being replaced with mobile library services or possible relocation.

A number of residents turned up to voice their concerns at the county council’s full council meeting at County Hall, in Taunton, yesterday (February 21).

Dave Chapple, a member of the Save Highbridge Library Group, spoke at the meeting and said Highbridge is a ‘deprived’ area and the community needs the service.

He said: “We have had three meetings so far with representatives from unions and all three political parties and all want to see libraries across Somerset saved.”

The council also heard from Nigel Behan who said the council has reduced library budgets by 20 per cent since 2011.

Cllr David Hall, cabinet member for resources and economic development for Somerset County Council, said: “We’re consulting at this stage, any changes made to the library services will be under requirement. This is a consultation and it is too soon to say what the outcome will be.”