Linen Hall library to close on Saturdays due to financial reasons

by Gráinne Connolly

Belfast's oldest library is being forced to close on Saturdays due to financial reasons. 

It's understood there will be a six month trial at Linen Hall, starting in October. 

According to Belfast Live, the decision was revealed in a letter to members from the president of the library's board of governors Alice Chapman. 

She said it had been made in light of a "challenging economic situation affecting many third-sector institutions."

North Belfast MLA, Nicola Mallon says this decision has caused widespread disappointment:

"The Linen Hall Library is an important part of our city's rich history. It is a valuable resource for all of us, young and old, to learn more about our political and cultural heritage.

"It should be supported to be open as much as possible to give more people the opportunity to visit, socialise and learn, not be forced to close on what should be one of its busiest days.

"For what would be a saving of £25,000, senior citizens, students, historians and anyone with a love of learning will lose so much more.

"The history of places like the Linen Hall Library, the richness it brings to the city, and the knowledge it holds for all those coming through its doors is invaluable.

"The savings needed by the Linen Hall Library are a drop in the ocean when compared to the losses in public funds through botched initiatives such as the Renewable Heat Incentive which has cost the taxpayer £460m, as well as the Social Investment Fund which has given public money to groups linked with paramilitaries.