THE organisation that oversees Devon’s libraries has claimed it would be “inappropriate to comment” on the potential cutting of librarian jobs.

Libraries Unlimited confirmed an internal staff consultation had begun, and that while it was ongoing, it could not elaborate on it.

But campaigners have sounded the horn on the process, reacting with dismay at a process that could see the number of so-called library supervisors reduced.

The move by Libraries Unlimited comes just months after the county’s library service looked secure when Devon County Council opted not to instigate potential changes that could have altered opening hours and grouped libraries together in hubs.

Although Libraries Unlimited did state that opening hours would be unaffected, it is uncertain how many library supervisors – who manage their libraries – could be cut.

The consultation is being conducted by Libraries Unlimited, and has no involvement from Devon County Council.

Vocal library campaigner Siân Smith, a member of Ottery St Mary Library Friends, said library supervisors were the “key” to libraries as they liaise with the local community, manage volunteers, set up projects, and more.

“I’m very disappointed,” she said.

“The council recently undertook a very expensive consultation which secured around 25,500 replies, including how everyone values their local libraries as they are, with staff that are there, and that they love their librarians, but now Libraries Unlimited says it has to save money and have a staff review.”

Ms Smith said Devon County Council had “absolutely listened” after its public consultation, and so the move by Libraries Unlimited now was puzzling and “felt like getting stabbed in the back”.

“If you asked each library supervisor how to save money, I’m sure they would come up with lots of good ideas, and that would be place-led, with each library having a different solution, but Libraries Unlimited is controlling and bureaucratic,” she added.

“I’m not aware of Libraries Unlimited having such conversations with library supervisors, and now they are consulting with library staff.”

A spokesperson for Libraries Unlimited said: “This is an internal staff consultation and therefore whilst the consultation is ongoing it would be inappropriate for us to comment further.

“We can confirm that staffed opening hours will be unaffected. There is no involvement from Devon County Council.”

Ms Smith said library campaigners were trying to publicise the plight of library staff and would try to start a petition soon.

Various county councillors have been contacted by Ms Smith and her group, with some stating they would push to find out more.

Councillor Jacqueline Fry (Reform UK, Newton Abbot North) said: “I fully recognise and support the vital work carried out by [library supervisors] and library staff across Devon.

“Libraries are far more than places to borrow books; they are important community hubs that provide support, learning opportunities, social connection and access to essential services.

“The dedication of staff, volunteers and friends groups is a significant part of what makes them successful.”

Councillor Steve Lodge (Liberal Democrat, Tiverton) said he was also “disappointed”, especially given the “hugely valuable” work his local library supervisor did in Tiverton and Bampton libraries.

Cllr Lodge, alongside other Liberal Democrat colleagues, said they would raise the issue with Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin (Liberal Democrat, Torrington Rural), whose cabinet role includes libraries.

Councillor Sara Wilson (Green Party, Ilfracombe) said it was “so important we continue to advocate for local libraries”.

“I heard that loud and clear as an outcome of the public consultation [by Devon County Council] and I want to see that principle being followed,” Cllr Wilson said.

“I have already written an email to Cllr Cottle-Hunkin expressing my serious concerns on the potential loss of the library supervisor in Ilfracombe, as it will mean that vital services in our disadvantaged community will be lost.”