A NEW library timetable starts next week, as Hertfordshire County Council cuts opening times by 30 per cent to save cash.

From Monday, July 4, libraries across the county will operate reduced hours in a move that is expected to save the county council �2m a year.

But it means several changes to libraries in Times Territory, including all-day closures once a week for facilities in Hatfield, Knebworth, Brookmans Park, Welwyn and Woodhall, as well as Oakmere library in Potters Bar.

County councillor Chris Hayward, executive member for libraries, said the closures had been staggered to ensure that residents would still have access to library services, even when their local branch was shut.

“We think it’s very important that Hertfordshire residents are able to access a library and we will continue to offer the full range of services,” cllr Hayward said.

“The new opening hours have been staggered so that when your local library isn’t open, a nearby branch will be.”

He added: “I am pleased that unlike many other local authorities, we in Hertfordshire have managed not to close a single library during these challenging economic times.”