Award-winning author is staging book protest at library

WRITE here, write now – concerned author is staging a personal protest outside a ‘closed’ library this week.
By The Newsroom
Published 27th Jun 2012, 08:24 BST

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

Campaigners are fighting to stop council plans to create a community hub within William Patrick Library in Kirkintilloch.

Work is currently taking place at the library. The ground floor was closed for 12 weeks on June 3 and the books have been temporarily taken away.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Lenzie author Theresa Breslin, who is part of the campaign group, has raised concerns about the impact the hub plans will have on the library’s children’s section and youngsters during the summer holidays.

She intends to give away 100 free signed copies of her books to primary pupils outside the library at 1.30pm today (Wednesday) – the first day of the school holidays – to raise awareness of her concerns and encourage reading amongst youngsters.

Theresa said: “It’s a protest – the building should not be closed during the school holidays.

“Traditionally children would rush off to the library on the first day of the school holidays to get books, but the library is closed.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Reading is one of the great pleasures of the summer holidays and I just want to make sure the kids get books to read.”

Library services for children are currently operating from the Barony Chambers while work is carried out on the hub.

Mark Grant, general manager of East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust, said: “During the temporary closure children can continue to borrow books in Kirkintilloch and develop their love of literature.

“As we have previously stated, we are fully committed to continuing the programme of children’s activities within William Patrick Library in what will be a fantastic new resource for children and families in Kirkintilloch when the new library and community hub opens at the end of August.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“That said, it is generous of Mrs Breslin to give out free books and I’m sure parents will be pleased to take them for their children.”

* Have you got a story, picture or comment? E-mail [email protected]

Alternatively you can call the newsdesk 0141 775 0040, find us on Facebook or visit us on Twitter

Or you can log in below and have you say on the site...

Related topics:WorkReading