ALL 17 libraries in North Ayrshire will remain open – but their hours could be slashed after a £360,000 budget cut.

North Ayrshire Council this week vowed to stick to their non closure policy, despite the funding crisis.

Library opening hours will now be reviewed across the board and a consultation period will involve staff members and the public.

Research is already underway to examine how library services are used, including the uptake of digital resources and e-books, which will be used to assist in discussions with library users during the consultation period.

This process is set to take place between October 5 and December 15, with online surveys and focus groups in the community helping to gauge local opinion.

The council’s head of service for Connected Communities, Audrey Sutton, is overseeing the process – and she believes the proposals will help guarantee the future of the local libraries.

She said: “Myself and Rhona Arthur are both librarians and we understand the importance of libraries in the community.

“We wanted to ensure that every one remained open and with these proposals, we have a solution which will ensure that libraries will maintain a high standard.

“We have discussed with library members of staff about shortening the opening hours and they have responded positively to the idea.

“The staff will be involved in designing the timetable for their own library as they know better than anyone when the library is busy or quiet.

“We will continue to work closely with them during the consultation period and will listen to all members of the community through focus groups as we may have missed something which can improve the service, and we are very keen to have schools involved.

“Libraries are still used by many families and by keeping all of them open, we can improve family literacy, which is a big focus, and can close the inequality gap.” Councillor Alan Hill, Cabinet Member for Community and Culture, also believes the proposals will have minimal impact on the service in North Ayrshire.

He said: “As everyone is aware these have been challenging times for local authorities across Scotland.

“We recognised the importance of libraries and the fact none are being shut is testament to that.  “We have had to be innovative and creative, exploring every option available to us, to ensure that we provide the best possible services possible.

“We have looked at each of the libraries and established when they are at their busiest and alternatively when they are most quiet.

“With that information, and the views of our the public, we can provide viable solutions that best meet the needs of the people who use the libraries.   “Any proposed changes to the opening hours will be necessary but small and I’m sure the libraries will continue to prosper and be invaluable for our communities.” The authority is keen for as many people as possible to be involved in the consultation process and the findings are expected to be discussed at Cabinet in February 2016.