MORE than 13,000 people have had their say on the future of Essex library services as the major consultation reaches its halfway stage.

With six weeks left to go, there have been a number of responses from organisation and people who are interested in running community libraries – which has bene highlighted as a future option.

As of January 9, more than 13,000 survey had been completed, including online responses, paper copy and via the Essex contact centre.

During the consultation, information drop-ins are being held at each of the 74 libraries the council runs around the county.

Based on public feedback, the council has changed its approach to these – instead of one two or four hour slot, a week at each library is being offered when the public can drop in at any time the library is open to ask questions.

The drop-in sessions are to provide information, not take feedback. Completing the survey is the best way to ensure individual views are recorded and heard.

Essex County Councillor Sue Barker, cabinet member for customer and corporate said: “We are half way through the library consultation and I’m really pleased with the high number of responses, and the amount of engagement, we’ve had from Essex residents and community groups.

“Thank you everyone for taking the time to share your views.

“The consultation is open till February 20 so I would encourage anyone who hasn’t yet completed the survey to please do so.”