Lincolnshire’s ‘thriving’ libraries have been secured through a renewed contract, county councillors have claimed.
The facilities including Spalding and Long Sutton Libraries, will continue to be run by Greenwich Leisure Limited.
It also provides support to the community hubs such as Holbeach and Pinchbeck.
A spokesman for provider Lincolnshire County Council said: “Since the charitable social enterprise was appointed in 2016 the county’s libraries have gone from strength to strength and, a decade on, are more popular than ever.
“Figures show that an impressive 98 per cent of Lincolnshire library users rate the service as good or excellent. Residents visited more than a million times and took out a record breaking 2.3 million items in the last year alone.
“More and more residents continue to discover the library service’s digital offer, with its wealth of free digital magazines, newspapers and e-audiobooks that save people money on costly subscription services.”
The authority also says 82,000 people went to events at libraries over the last few years.
Coun Natalie Oliver, executive councillor for culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Lincolnshire’s libraries are a real success story and these impressive figures show how loved they are.
“I’m delighted that we have been able to secure the future of a service that residents know and love, whilst ensuring value for money for the local taxpayer.
“With this renewed partnership we will write the next exciting chapter in our libraries’ story.
“Visitors can look forward to even more incredible events as the service builds stronger links with schools – with activities bringing to life what children are learning in the classroom.
“It’s brilliant that there will also be more opportunities for Lincolnshire’s writers. We have such an incredible wealth of talent across the county, and this support will really help them to kickstart their careers.
“Here’s to the next five years of reading, writing and beyond!”
