Longer hours at libraries

FIFE’S libraries are fighting back against devastating cuts by offering longer opening hours and Saturday sessions.

The transformation by Fife Cultural Trust, to ensure the network’s future, comes following detailed research including a survey of more than 2,000 Fifers, an analysis of footfall and extensive consultation with staff.

Across Fife the public wanted libraries to open on Saturdays and at least one evening a week.

Users also wanted branches to open for at least an hour across lunchtimes, even those with only one staff member.

As a result Saturday openings will be implemented from May 7. Where venues already opened on Saturdays, many will see their hours extended.

Two of the most prominent changes will be at Dunfermline Carnegie Library, which will open all day on a Wednesday, and Kirkcaldy Galleries which will open on Monday mornings.

From May the late opening will, in general, move from Monday to Thursday.

Many of the sites, such as Leslie, Valleyfield, Ta y p o r t , S t M o n a n s , Newburgh, Ladybank, Elie, Auchtermuchty and Newport, will open an extra day. ONE of Scotland’s most popular classical musicians premiered new material at the Caird Hall last night.

Nicola Benedetti graced the stage to perform a piece written specially for her.

Along with conductor Thomas Søndergård, she played jazz musician Wynton Marsalis’ violin concerto in D, for violin and orchestra, to an enthralled crowd.

It was the violinist’s first public performance since being made a CBE in the Queen’s New Year’s honours list.