CLOSING public libraries could have a severe impact on people’s physical and psychological wellbeing, a doctor has claimed.
Dr Maria Markides, from Birkdale, believes closing her village’s library would cause “social isolation” and knock-on health problems.
Her comments were submitted to Sefton Council as part of an anti-closure campaign by Birkdale Library Action Group (BLAG).
According to the GP, the library is the only place vulnerable people can go to enjoy company without the obligation of buying something.
She said cutting that community lifeline could lead to “loneliness and social isolation”.
Dr Markides said: “Not only is there a strong link with mental health problems (stress, depression, anxiety) but also with poorer physical health, including falls, decreased physical activity, obesity, poor nutrition, higher intake of alcohol and also with cognitive decline.”
The future of libraries in Aintree, Ainsdale, Birkdale, Churchtown, Crosby, Orrell and Litherland is set to be decided at the council’s budget-setting meeting on February 28.
