Following a public consultation on the future of Ryhall Library, Rutland County Council have announced they will continue run the site with funding to be given to improve the lending service and equipment at the library. 

This decision comes after months of protesting by the Ryhall Library Action Group and local residents. 

In a statement shared by the Ryhall Library Action Group, they said: "Ryhall and its neighbouring communities welcome the recent announcement by Rutland County Council (RCC) that it has abandoned plans to close the village library building and continue it as the venue from which to provide library services. 

The Ryhall Library Action Group showed the immense importance of the facilities to the surrounding area (Photo: LDRS)

"There is now an exciting opportunity over the next 3 years, ahead of the pending local government reorganisation, to put the library's continued existence on a sustainable long-term future. 

"This should start with removing the delay in granting the building the status of an Asset of Community Value which will allow the parish to plan how the building's future can be protected. Following which, RCC should define and implement a maintenance programme to catch up with its admitted 5-year backlog of repairs … for which it is clear existing budgets will adequately permit. 

"The Ryhall Library Action Group hopes it will now be able to work collaboratively with the Parish and County Councils to explore how use of the building can be open longer to expand the services it offers local groups and become an even more valued element of our village life." 

Furthermore, Rutland County Council have said: "The Council has explored possible alternative locations within Ryhall and other nearby villages, as well as considering the demands and uncertainty around local government reorganisation. With no alternative venues immediately available to support a move of the library service, Rutland County Council has concluded that a prolonged process to relocate the provision and then dispose of the building would not be in the interest of library users or an effective use of resources, at this time. 

"Rutland County Council remains committed to working with local communities to make best use of community spaces and deliver the ambitions of the Living Well service – increasing access to health, well-being and education services for residents throughout the county."