LIBRARIES in Medway could be housed in schools and sports centres, or even closed, under new proposals that could also see a flagship central facility in Chatham. The proposals, in the Library and Information Service Best Value Review, will be discussed by councillors next week.

The £2.5 million master plan could see built a huge super library in Medway that would house a state-of-the-art children's library, large audio-visual collection, central reference service, and meeting rooms. Hours of larger libraries could be extended so that they are open late into the evening, early in the morning, and on Sundays.

But the plans also envisages town centre libraries being moved, with some village facilities closing, some to be moved to schools or sports centres.

In the report, Gill Butler, Medway's Library, Information and Museum Services Manager, said: "The role of the libraries needs to be reviewed in detail, particularly if visitor numbers are to be increased. Some libraries are open so few hours, questions must be asked about their viability."

But she adds: "Before any consideration of closure, it will be important to consult with the communities, other agencies and other council services to consider the future of the service. There are a few community libraries that require urgent attention and difficult decisions if the service is to move forward. Any closures would be compensated for by the use of the mobile library."

The Regeneration and Community Overview and Scrutiny Committee will discuss the report next Wednesday, and make recommendations to cabinet, but no final decision on the changes is likely until 2003.

In the report, even present town centre libraries are said to need drastic changes.

Rochester library is labelled "unfit" in its present condition, although its High Street position is described as good. One proposal is to relocate the library to Rochester riverside to reflect the changing population of Medway.

Gillingham library could receive more investment in its present High Street location. Alternatively, it could be moved to a residential area, to another site in the High Street, or even share the site of the Black Lion Leisure Centre.

The report suggests Grain library, open just seven hours a week, could be moved, to provide longer opening hours and internet access, or closed and replaced by the mobile library. The present facility is said to be "a health and safety hazard for staff".

Hempstead library, open nine hours a week, is labelled "very inadequate", and may be shifted to Chatham Grammar School or Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre.

Fairway library could be moved to Thomas Aveling Secondary School, and Hoo library to Hundred of Hoo School or the village leisure centre.