MP's sustained campaign saves Harborne Library building
- Preet Kaur Gill MP
- Oct 1
- 2 min read
Preet Kaur Gill MP's persistent campaigning, involving multiple meetings with council leadership and extensive correspondence, has resulted in Birmingham City Council accepting that the Harborne Library building will be retained as a library facility for the community.
The campaign represents a major achievement in the face of the council's unprecedented financial crisis and widespread service cuts affecting libraries across Birmingham.
When Birmingham City Council's library closure proposals emerged in March 2024 as part of planning for unprecedented budget cuts, Ms Gill immediately launched a determined campaign to save Harborne Library from being moved from the high street and sold. The council, facing difficult financial decisions, proved ready to work with local people to find solutions.
On achieving the success, Ms Gill said:
"I was absolutely determined that we would not lose the Harborne Library building on the High Street. From March 2024 when the closure proposals first emerged, right through to the council's final decision in February 2025, I've had countless meetings and exchanges with the council to make the case for keeping this vital facility in public hands and on the high street. I'm delighted that the council has now accepted that building must be retained.”
Throughout her campaign, Ms Gill worked closely with local residents and community campaigners including Save Harborne Library petition organisers and Harborne Library Hub Group.
Her campaign complemented grassroots community mobilisation to create a powerful joint effort. She understands the value of libraries, having spent significant time here when her children were growing up.
"The community campaign was vital in demonstrating local support, and I was proud to champion their cause at the highest levels of council," she said.
While the building has been secured, Harborne Library currently operates with reduced opening hours including only alternate Saturday access. Ms Gill is looking for this situation to improve and recently met with members of Harborne Library Hub Group and Business Improvement District to review current situation discuss next steps.
"Securing the building was the crucial first step, but our work isn't finished. I continue to press the council about improving service levels and ensuring this facility can truly serve our community's needs in the long term," she added.
“The library maintains core services including book borrowing, computer access, and community activities. Now there is the opportunity to provide more community activity, improving local services and contributing to a vibrant high street.”
"This victory shows what can be achieved when an MP is prepared to fight hard for local services," said Preet Gill. "I will continue this work to ensure our communities get the library services they deserve."