TWO libraries could soon be checking themselves out, if money saving plans get council backing.

Walcot and Old Town libraries are earmarked for closure in Swindon Council budget proposals.

The council says new facilities at the £10m Central Library and at the new-look Cavendish Square, will serve library users better.

But mobile library services will be introduced to Old Town and Walcot, the council has pledged, and before any closure decision is taken, users will be asked what they think.

"National library usage is in decline year on year and yet in Swindon we have been bucking that trend," said Coun Justin Tomlinson, cabinet member for leisure, culture and recreation.

"And the new Central Library will be offering us a chance to hugely extend opening times, and so keep that trend going.

"I don't think the distance that people travel to use the new libraries, compared to the distances they travelled to use the existing facilities, is an issue.

"For the people who live in Old Town, near the library, perhaps they will feel it, having to travel to the new Central Library.

"But then that is why we are consulting people on these proposals."

He said that when mobile library services were introduced to Chiseldon, after it closed its library, usage figures went up.

"We are spending £4m across the library network this year," said Coun Tomlinson.

"So it is important to deliver the best service for as many people in the borough as possible."

The possible closures were raised at a meeting of Swindon Council cabinet on Wednesday.

Coun Fionuala Foley, cabinet member for corporate affairs and deputy leader, represents Old Town.

She said that the new central library was not far from the present branch in Old Town.

"We have to look at services for the future," she said.

"The new library is just down the hill from the Old Town branch and represents a massive £10m investment by this council in this town.

"But we are having to look at, and take, tough decisions because we are an incredibly poorly funded council.

"I would hope that more people in Old Town will use the library service, whether it's mobile or the new facility."