Reform-Run Council Axes Free Library Program for Refugees Despite Zero Cost
In a controversial move that has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties and community advocates, the Reform UK-led Lancashire County Council has withdrawn all 63 libraries in the region from the UK-wide Libraries of Sanctuary program. The decision was made despite the scheme being completely free to participate in, with council leadership claiming it does not represent "value for money" for taxpayers.
Free Program Terminated Over Value Concerns
The Libraries of Sanctuary initiative, operated by the charity City of Sanctuary UK, helps refugees and asylum seekers integrate into British society by providing language classes, children's activities, and assistance accessing public services. Libraries often serve as critical first points of contact for new arrivals, offering free wifi, computer access, language learning resources, and books in native languages.
Matthew Salter, the Reform councillor responsible for the decision, stated: "The Libraries of Sanctuary accreditation reached the end of its agreed term in 2025 and I took the decision to end our participation at that point. The scheme is voluntary, and I do not believe it represents an appropriate use of taxpayers' money. Our libraries serve all the residents of Lancashire."
Charity Expresses Disappointment at Withdrawal
A spokesperson for City of Sanctuary UK responded: "We are disappointed that Lancashire County Council has chosen not to renew its Library of Sanctuary award. Achieved in 2023, this accreditation recognized Lancashire's libraries as welcoming, inclusive spaces for everyone in the community. The Libraries of Sanctuary network is free to join and simply helps library staff do their jobs better – sharing knowledge, resources and best practice across the UK."
The council had previously celebrated its Library of Sanctuary status as recognition that it "aim[s] to foster a culture of welcome and inclusivity."
Political Backlash and Financial Context
The decision has sparked outrage from other political parties. Liberal Democrat county councillor David Whipp called the move "mean-spirited" and added: "It's a vicious attack on some of the most marginalized people and no doubt driven by Reform's xenophobic tendencies. I would urge them to reconsider and like in the Wizard of Oz try and find some heart."
The withdrawal comes as Reform UK says it needs to find £103 million in cuts across Lancashire. Last month, the council reversed plans to sell five council-run care homes to save £4 million annually following public opposition. Council leader Stephen Atkinson has defended plans to increase council tax by 3.8% despite previous pledges to "cut waste and reduce taxes," claiming that "officially, from the party, that was never the position" regarding tax freezes.
The Conservative opposition has claimed that many of the savings initiatives began before Reform UK took power in May 2025. The Libraries of Sanctuary program termination appears to have surprised fellow councillors and represents another contentious decision by the Reform-led administration as it navigates significant budgetary pressures while implementing its political agenda.
