Library reduces from 6 to 2 branches by end of fiscal year; users oppose sudden closure plan in Kiyose, Tokyo

The city is in turmoil over the possible closure of its municipal libraries. In March, the city decided to close 4 out of 6 libraries by the end of fiscal year 2024, citing low usage rates. Although the city plans to introduce alternative services, users have expressed opposition and confusion due to insufficient notification about the closures.

“Just because a decision has been made, they should not rush ahead. Is the city’s policy greatly out of step with the needs of citizens?”

At a regular city council meeting on September 4, a council member questioned the city’s stance regarding the partial closure of the libraries.

Closure policy not clearly stated until just before; city explains

In March, the city submitted a bill to revise the ordinance on libraries to the council. The plan states that, of the six current municipal libraries, four—excluding the “Central” and “Station Front” branches—will close at the end of this fiscal year. The aging Central branch will be rebuilt nearby and reopened as the “Southern” branch in February 2026, resulting in a two-library system.

Prior to this, the city had…

Central

Central is a major business district and cultural hub in Hong Kong, located on the northern shore of Hong Kong Island. Originally a British colonial settlement established in the 1840s, it evolved from a military and administrative center into a global financial powerhouse. Today, Central is known for its iconic skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and landmarks like the Bank of China Tower and the historic Central-Mid-Levels escalator.

Station Front

“Station Front” refers to the area immediately in front of a major railway station, often serving as a bustling hub of activity. Historically, these spaces developed in the 19th and 20th centuries as rail travel expanded, becoming key points for transportation, commerce, and social interaction. They frequently feature hotels, shops, and public squares, reflecting the station’s role as a gateway to the city.

Southern

“Southern” most commonly refers to the Southern United States, a region defined by its distinct culture, history, and geography. Historically, it was shaped by an agricultural economy reliant on slavery, leading to the Civil War and a long period of Reconstruction. Today, the South is known for its unique traditions in music, cuisine, and literature, as well as its complex legacy of both struggle and resilience.

Central

“Central” refers to the Central business district of Hong Kong, a major financial and commercial hub situated on the northern shore of Hong Kong Island. Its history dates back to the 1840s when it was established as the center of British colonial administration, evolving from a military and trading post into a global financial center. Today, it is renowned for its iconic skyline, luxury shopping, and a blend of historic landmarks like the Former Central Magistracy with modern skyscrapers.

Station Front

“Station Front” typically refers to the area directly in front of a major train station, often serving as a bustling hub of transportation, commerce, and urban life. Historically, these spaces emerged in the</div

Central

Central is a major commercial and business district in Hong Kong, located on the northern shore of Hong Kong Island. Historically, it was the site of the original British settlement after the 1841 occupation, evolving from a colonial administrative center into a global financial hub. Today, it is known for its iconic skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and a blend of modern architecture with historic landmarks like the former Central Police Station.

Station Front

“Station Front” typically refers to the area directly in front of a major railway station, such as Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station in Japan. Historically, these spaces evolved from simple transit hubs into bustling commercial and cultural centers, especially after the postwar reconstruction period. Today, Station Front areas are iconic symbols of urban convenience, blending modern architecture, shopping, and transportation history.

Southern

“Southern” is a broad term that can refer to various regions, but it often denotes the southern part of a country, such as the Southern United States. This region has a complex history, shaped by its agricultural economy, the institution of slavery, the Civil War, and the subsequent Civil Rights Movement. Culturally, it is known for its distinct traditions in music, cuisine, and hospitality.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a vibrant special administrative region of China, known for its deep natural harbor and skyline. Its history includes British colonial rule from 1842 to 1997, when it was returned to China under the “one country, two systems” framework. Today, it serves as a major global financial hub, blending Eastern and Western cultures.

Hong Kong Island

Hong Kong Island is a major urban hub and the historical heart of Hong Kong, having been ceded to Britain in 1842 under the Treaty of Nanking and serving as the colony’s initial center of development. Today, it is renowned for its dramatic skyline dominated by skyscrapers, including the iconic Bank of China Tower, as well as vibrant neighborhoods like Central and Wan Chai. The island also features cultural landmarks such as the Peak, offering panoramic views, and traditional sites like Man Mo Temple, blending a rich colonial past with modern city life.

Bank of China Tower

The Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong is a striking 72-story skyscraper designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, completed in 1990. Its distinctive angular, bamboo-like structure symbolizes strength and prosperity, while its history reflects Hong Kong’s rise as a global financial hub. The building was the tallest in Asia from 1990 to 1992 and remains an iconic landmark on the city’s skyline.

Central-Mid-Levels escalator

The Central-Mid-Levels escalator in Hong Kong is the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system, stretching over 800 meters. Opened in 1993 to ease traffic congestion on the steep hillside, it connects the Central business district with the residential Mid-Levels area. The system reverses direction during peak hours—downhill in the morning and uphill in the afternoon—and has become a popular tourist attraction, lined with shops, bars, and restaurants.

Former Central Magistracy

The Former Central Magistracy is a historic building located in Central, Hong Kong, originally constructed in the early 20th century. It served as a magistracy (a type of court) during the British colonial era, handling minor criminal cases. The building is part of the Central Police Station compound, which has been revitalized into the heritage and arts complex known as Tai Kwun.