OPENING time patterns for libraries in the Reporter area have been announced.

The new timetables will come into effect on July 4 following a countywide consultation prompted by the need to save over �4 million over the next four years.

Saffron Walden Library has lost 13 hours as part of the cost-cutting exercise – the new timetable will see the King Street facility shut early on Wednesday and close all day on Sunday.

Essex County Council’s libraries service received more than 27,000 responses and in most cases, the service says, customers had a ‘clear preference for a particular pattern of opening times and the most popular option implemented’.

Customers will be able to pick up a bookmark with details of the new opening times at their local library.

Cabinet member for environment and culture Cllr Jeremy Lucas said: “I would like to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the consultation. I am pleased to be able to say that we have been able to honour the will of the respondents.

“We are still keen to work with other public sector organisations or community groups who may have suggestions for funding or in kind support which may enable us to keep libraries open for longer.

“We continue to welcome any suggestions of this type.”

A number of changes to the routes of some mobile libraries will also come into effect from July 4. Timetables are available from mobile libraries or by calling 0845 603 7628

NEW LIBRARY OPENING HOURS

Saffron Walden

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 9am-6pm

Wednesday: 9am-1pm

Saturday: 9am-5pm

Sunday: closed

Stansted

Tuesday: 9am-1pm

Wednesday: 2pm-5pm

Thursday: 2pm-6pm

Saturday: 9.30am-5pm

Monday, Friday and Sunday: Closed

Thaxted

Tuesday and Thursday: 3pm-6pm

Friday: 9.30am-3.30pm

Saturday: 9.30am-12.30pm

Monday, Wednesday and Sunday: Closed