THREE libraries are set to be run by a computer recycling firm when a decision is made next week.
A report by Lewisham Council officers has recommended Eco Computer Systems takes over the Sydenham, Crofton Park and Grove Park libraries.
The council is closing five of its libraries as part of a massive £88m cuts package.
Despite 13 submissions of interest from organisations to take on one or more of the services, only four were considered in the final report. Of these, only the Eco Computer Systems bid was deemed to be “of an acceptable standard”.
The report leaves open the future of New Cross Library, with officers expressing concern that, by taking on that building’s internal repairing lease and service charge, Eco Computer Systems could be at risk of organisational failure.
New Cross’s facility could now be used for “an alternative community use”.
The report says the building will still close on May 28 while officers “explore options for providing community library facilities in the locality either from the existing premises or elsewhere”.
Blackheath Village Library, whose premises are not owned by the council, is set to be run by the Age Exchange charity and will be housed in its new reminiscence centre - due to be completed by the end of 2012.
In the meantime, the charity will run a smaller, transitional library, due to open on June 6.
The final decision on all the libraries will be made at a Mayor and Cabinet meeting on May 11.
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