Fears unused library could be lost if nothing is done

Tuesday, 22 July 2025 16:04

By George Lythgoe

Coun Dylan Williams, stood outside Junction Library in Middleton

A library in Middleton could be lost if people don’t start using it, a local politician has warned.

Junction Library off Grimshaw Lane is averaging eight to 10 visitors a week currently, which Coun Dylan Williams says is not good enough. The East Middleton representative says he will always fight to keep the library going, but now he’s issued an urgent appeal for Middletonians to use the community asset before it’s too late.

The Jumbo Centre attached to the library is doing well, says Coun Williams, but that is in stark contrast to the library numbers.

“Junction Library has been open since 2004,” Coun Williams said. “The usage keeps getting lower and lower.

“As councillors we won;t accept it closing, but you don;t know what could happen in future years. The library is always being looked at by council officers as it’s one of the lowest used in the borough.

“Eight to 10 people visiting a week is really low. People should know that they need to use it or lose it.”

The library boasts free WiFi, free parking, computers, study area, printer, scanner, photo copier and a children’s area. It is also a designated welcome space so tea, coffee and cold drinks are also available.

Coun Williams went on to say how he is working with Rochdale Council to change the opening hours of the library to better suit the needs of the community. He says a complaint from residents is that they don't know whether the library will actually be open when they go - due to last minute closures due to staffing issues.

The politician has also said he is pushing for more activities to be held at the library to draw people in.

“At the end of the day, if the numbers keep dying, it’s not good news,” Coun Williams added. “Junction Library used to do loads of events but now they don’t do anything.”

He believes employing a new librarian for the site could help improve things for locals.