Thanks to Richard Beet for sending this through – Ed.
Residents and library users in Bembridge united Wednesday night in an attempt to save Bembridge Library from closing at the end of June by forming a steering committee to examine a range of options.
The move follows action in other parts of the island where library services have been earmarked for closure and reflects the deep concern shown by many residents at public meetings and consultations held by Bembridge Parish Council.
IW Council: “Misjudged the mood of local people”
Keith Fagan, chairman of the committee, said that everyone on the committee regretted the planned closure and loss of jobs. “Although we believe that the Isle of Wight Council has misjudged the mood of local people by closing a service which is so highly valued, we all feel we have to come up with solutions to keep and improve the existing library and facilities.
“The Library is in the heart of the village and is seen as a community hub offering not only books, but a DVD library, IT facilities, meeting rooms and shares facilities with the Bembridge Heritage Society whose exhibition has long been an important tourist attraction.”
RCC support
The committee have the support of Phillipa Daley from the Isle of Wight Rural Community Council, parish councillors and the manager for strategic partnerships at IWC, Astrid Davies.
“We now need to attract a pool of volunteers who would be willing to support the venture,” said committee member Peter Pickworth. “I’m sure there are plenty of people who would be prepared to staff the library for a few hours a week as well as those with vital skills such as business management and administration, training, accountancy, marketing, legal services and volunteering experience.”
The committee will be looking at the creation and running of a successful community library, set up by residents in Little Chalfont, Buckinghamshire in 2006 and will also be seeking to share information with other action groups on the Island.
Meeting – 16 March
The committee will meet again at 6pm on Wednesday 16 March at the Bembridge Bowls Club in Mitten Road and invite anyone with an interest in saving the library to attend.
Image: © Google Streetview
