I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for libraries and librarians.

Growing up in poverty while caring for disabled parents, I relied on my local public library. It was right there on my doorstep: a quiet place to do homework, read books, and imagine a different future. That building, and the people inside it, changed my life.

So speaking in Parliament about the importance of libraries was a personal matter.

Here in Bournemouth, I’ve held surgeries in Boscombe, Castlepoint, Southbourne and Pokesdown, and Springbourne libraries. Every time, I’m struck by the commitment of library staff. They’re doing more and more with less and less.

Locally, BCP Council cut opening hours across our libraries by an average of 10 hours a week. Nationally, the picture is even worse. Since 2010, over 800 libraries have closed their doors, and 9,000 librarian jobs have been lost.

That’s a direct result of local authorities being forced to prioritise other areas of spending, bringing impossible choices.

In Parliament, I called for a long-term reform of council funding. Because without it, our libraries will continue to disappear, and with them the vital community hubs where people learn, access the internet, join group activities, or sit quietly and read. They need to be protected.

And to every librarian in Bournemouth East: thank you for everything you’re doing to keep these vital community spaces open.

Watch my full contribution below.