OPENING time patterns for Dunmow’s library has been announced.

The new timetables will come into effect on July 4 and follows a countywide consultation prompted by the need to save over �4 million over the next two years.

Dunmow Library has lost four hours as part of the cost-cutting exercise.

Essex County Council’s libraries service received more than 27,000 responses and in most cases, the service says, customers had a ‘clear preference for a particular pattern of opening times and the most popular option implemented’.

Customers will be able to pick up a bookmark with details of the new opening times at their local library.

A number of changes to the routes of some mobile libraries will also come into effect from July 4. Timetables are available from mobile libraries or by calling 0845 603 7628

Cabinet member for environment and culture Cllr Jeremy Lucas said: “I would like to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the consultation. I am pleased to be able to say that we have been able to honour the will of the respondents. We are still keen to work with other public sector organisations or community groups who may have suggestions for funding or in kind support which may enable us to keep libraries open for longer. We continue to welcome any suggestions of this type.”

Essex County Council is also reviewing staffing and reduction in stock fund to help slash its libraries budget.

DUNMOW LIBRARY’S NEW OPENING HOURS

Monday, Tuesday: 9am-6pm

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 9am-5pm

Sunday: Closed