In early 2015, Bristol City Council announced that 7 libraries were “recommended for closure” in 2016. This included Sea Mills Library. They then launched a consultation to seek public opinion on this.
Friends of Sea Mills Library was formed by a group of local residents to champion its usage and try and prevent its closure. The first meeting was held at the library on 6 May 2015.
Our group worked to argue against the closure and made sure as many local residents, library users, and members of Bristol’s public were aware of the council’s consultation and their plans for the library. We produced a leaflet which was distributed to thousands of houses, and worked with a local councillor – to ensure as many people as possible argued against the closure plans. We also met with the then-Mayor George Ferguson to discuss the situation, and look at additional uses, to help fund the library better and cement its future.
At the start of September 2015, the council decided to go for alternative plans, whereby no libraries would close in 2016, but all would have reduced opening hours. This was only guaranteed for one year. The hours have been tweaked several times since, along with the makeup of the council, and the removal of the Mayor post, but the libraries (although continuously deemed to be under threat) are still operating as of July 2025.
The renewed aims of the group now, are to promote the library, work with Library Services on improvements, encourage volunteers as needed, and increase usage to try and make sure it is seen as a valuable asset to the council, and useful community space for residents.
If you wish to contact the group, you can email us on contactus@friendsofseamillslibrary.co.uk and we’re also on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/friendsofseamillslibrary
(We had a page on X/Twitter: @FriendsOfSML but this is no longer actively checked or updated.)
New members are always welcome. Please contact us if you would like to help us.
