Libraries in Suffolk have secured funding for at least another year after it was revealed the service was facing a £720,000 shortfall.

Suffolk Libraries had identified a potential deficit in its budget of £60,000 per month, with factors such as increases in service costs, rising inflation and the Covid pandemic to blame.

But Suffolk County Council has confirmed it has approved plans to increase its funding to the service through to the end of its current contract in July next year.

The decision was agreed at a meeting of the council's cabinet on Tuesday.

Suffolk County Council already supported Suffolk Libraries with £5.9million of funding every year.

Bobby Bennett, cabinet member for equality and communities, said: "We recognise the important role that libraries play in the community, they offer so much more than just books; providing community spaces which bring people together, to learn, socialise, read and take part in activities.

Ipswich Star: Bobby Bennett of Suffolk County CouncilBobby Bennett of Suffolk County Council (Image: Simon Lee/Suffolk County Council)

"We are proud of the work Suffolk libraries do, which is recognised nationally, and we are committed to supporting the service to maintain this high standard.

"This is why Suffolk County Council is increasing its funding to Suffolk Libraries, to support them to continue delivering the outstanding service they provide for our residents."

Bruce Leeke, chief executive of Suffolk Libraries, added: "We are delighted that Suffolk County Council has agreed to provide us with additional funding for the remainder of our current contract.

"Our direct library costs have significantly increased over the last few years and the pandemic impacted our ongoing fundraising and income generation initiatives.

"This has combined to create a budget deficit which would have made it difficult to maintain the same comprehensive service for the people of Suffolk without additional support.

"Since 2012, we have been nationally recognised for delivering innovative and forward-thinking services which reduce inequality and improve community wellbeing, whilst saving a significant amounts of public money."