Council considers closing specialist performing arts library

A library in Somerset with a specialist performing arts section offering music and drama resources to the public faces closure as the local council looks to save money.

Yeovil Library has more than 40,000 items in its collection, including manuscripts, musicals and plays, and is described as a “unique asset” by Performing Arts Library Outreach Officer Natalie Snelson. 

"We're really lucky to have a performing arts library in Somerset as we are the only one in the county," she said.

Somerset Council is considering closing the library as it revises all of its service areas to save money following "extraordinary financial pressures".

Federica Smith-Roberts, Executive Member for Communities, Housing and Culture, said: "The potential closure of this service would reduce access to, and participation in, the performing arts across Somerset – but we are some way from this point.

"Libraries play a hugely important role in our communities and, before taking any decision, we would talk to the Department for Culture Media and Sport and would also consult the public.”