LIBRARIES COME OUT TOP, SAY LOCAL RESIDENTS

3.39.00pm GMT Sat 7th Mar 2009

Alan Dean at Stansted Library

Libraries in west Uttlesford came 'top of the pops' in a recent survey of public services. Ninety-six percent of people who use local libraries said the service was adequate or better, with 87% judging the service good or very good.

"This is quite an achievement and shows that personal service is appreciated by the public", said Cllr Alan Dean, who analysed the results from over 350 replies to the survey carried out by local Liberal Democrat councillors.

"I have already visited Stansted library to congratulate the staff and intend to catch up with the travelling library in the coming week."

Comments from the four in ten residents who use the library service included: helpful, knowledgeable and friendly staff. The mobile library staff came in for special praise for their friendliness. Several people said the Stansted library should have more and fresh books but that the staff there 'are lovely'. Some people want the Stansted library opening hours to be extended.