CUTS at Oakmere Library in Potters Bar could see it suffer a 45 per cent reduction in opening hours as a public consultation period comes to a close next Saturday.

Proposals, which people are able to view and comment on at the library in High Street, may introduce a new full day closure on Thursday, morning closures on Tuesday and Friday, and a new 6pm evening closing time.

Hertfordshire County Council has suggested a 30 per cent reduction in library hours across the region as it faces the financial strain of the coalition government's comprehensive spending review.

However, papers by the community safety and culture panel do not make it clear why there is a disparity between Oakmere Library taking a 45 per cent reduction and other areas only a 20 per cent reduction.

The criteria for the proposed hours does not appear to list usage, which has led residents from Borehamwood to criticise the county council and set up a petition to save their library.

If all proposals pass unchanged, Hertsmere stands to be the second worse hit borough in the county.

The public consultation period ends on December 11, comment cards are available at Oakmere Library along with the full list of proposals.

Alternatively, visit the the Herts Direct website for the new times or the Herts Direct Library website to leave comments.