Libraries packed with campaigners (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Libraries packed with campaigners

4:00pm Saturday 12th February 2011 in News By Gemma Casey

LIBRARIES across the Cotswolds were packed last weekend with people taking part in a national campaign to keep them open.

Readings by children's authors, theatre performances and craft workshops all took place on Saturday, the national day of action against library cuts.

Three-quarters of Gloucestershire's 38 libraries are in line for a reduced service. Ten, including Lechlade, are set to close if the community does not step in to help.

The cuts come as Gloucestershire County Council tries to save £108 million over the next four years.

Cirencester, Tetbury, Fairford and Lechlade libraries all had a visit from local author Cindy Jefferies.

A read-in hosted by Chloe of the Midnight Story Tellers was held at the Moreton-in-Marsh and Stow-on-the-Wold libraries.

Johanna Anderson, from Friends of Gloucestershire Libraries, said the day was a great success.

"The aim of the day was to celebrate all that libraries do for us," she said, "and to let our councillors know how important we think libraries are."