The recommendation, put forward by the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP), was presented during a tropical debate requested by communist councillors. They argued that the situation in Lisbon’s libraries is worsening, negatively affecting the education community, current and future readers, and many municipal workers.

“Lisbon has not lived up to its responsibilities in this area,” said PCP councillor Natacha Amaro. She noted that the 2012 strategic library programme aimed to establish 26 libraries by 2024 – eight main libraries and eighteen local ones – but currently, there are only three main and fifteen other libraries.

Highlighting the libraries’ role in cultural access and democratic engagement, she pointed out problems including staff shortages, limited hours, and Saturday closures. She also cited maintenance issues, like plumbing problems that forced the Belém library to close and the Orlando Ribeiro library’s 23-year wait for a fresh coat of paint. “Lisbon is the only municipality in the metropolitan area whose libraries do not open on Saturdays,” she stressed.

The PCP called for more workers and improvements in air conditioning, accessibility, mobility, and the lack of café facilities.

Representing the council (led by PSD/CDS-PP), Education Councillor Sofia Athayde acknowledged staff shortages but highlighted recruitment efforts. “Currently, the library network has 184 workers, up from 154 in 2021,” she said. She added that changes to opening hours are under negotiation, including talks with unions, and that a new strategic plan is nearly complete.

With votes against from IL and independent councillor Margarida Peneedo, and abstentions from PSD, PPM, CDS-PP, and Chega, the assembly recommended that the council take necessary steps to resolve these issues, focusing on increasing staff and addressing long-standing maintenance and safety concerns.

Unanimously, the Assembly also urged the council to carry out essential building improvements as soon as possible.

The Municipal Assembly of Lisbon includes 13 political groups and 75 elected members.