FEARS are growing that under-used libraries could lead to book borrowing services being axed across the county.

Dwindling visitor numbers could spell the end of the shelf lives of some libraries in Dorset, the local Liberal Democrats group claims.

They say that a significant reduction in library users in Dorchester, Puddletown and Bridport will be used as justification for closure. Latest figures show that the number of people using Dorset libraries has dropped by 10 per cent in the past year after opening hours were reduced.

Dorchester Library has seen a fall of 14 per cent, Bridport Library a reduction of 13 per cent and Puddletown Library a fall of 11 per cent.

Internet use – free for half an hour – has fallen by a third since charges were introduced, the county council’s Cultural Services Annual Performance Report shows.

Sue Farrant, Lib Dem prospective parliamentary candidate for West Dorset, said: “This is something we really need to watch because of tight finances at the moment.

“There’s a real worry that if we see library users decline, the libraries will be closed.

“At a time of recession when everybody is feeling the pinch, we should be making it easier for people to use the libraries.

“For people who are desperately job hunting, internet access is essential. People on a limited budget can’t afford to buy newspapers, books or DVDs and rely on their local library.”

Dr Farrant says there are rumours that the Conservative-controlled county council will opt to save money by closing five to 10 local libraries.

Two years ago rural libraries were saved from the axe but their opening hours were cut and the number of books reduced.

A Dorset County Council spokeswoman said she was unaware of plans to shut any libraries in the county.

Tracy Long, Dorset County Council’s Library Service manager, said: “The use of libraries as measured by visitor and borrowing figures is part of a declining trend over a number of years and the decline cannot be solely attributed to the reduced opening hours.

“The use of the computers has dropped which is to be expected as more homes now have access to computers and broadband.

“Overall there is high customer satisfaction rating with the library service in Dorset.”