Three local library buildings are set to be transferred to the community organisations that run them.
Gateshead Council's cabinet approved a review of the library service in February 2017 which saw development of three additional volunteer managed libraries at Rowlands Gill, Whickham and Felling.
Responsibility for the running of these libraries was transferred to volunteers in July of that year.
At the time, the voluntary groups that stepped up to run these community resources were signed 'Right to Occupy and Service Provision
Agreement' with the council continuing to take full responsibility for the operational running costs of the buildings.
Now, the volunteer groups are set to be offered short term leases of the buildings.
According to a report due to be heard by cabinet next week the lease will be "on a full repairing and insuring basis" and rent free.
It said: "This figure represents the open market value of the property as its use is restricted to that of a library. "
As well as the new leased the council will enter into new agreements outlining what it will do to fund and support the repair and maintenance of the buildings.
Gateshead Council's cabinet will vote on the plans at their next meeting on Tuesday.
