A LIBRARY service in south Chingford looks set to be saved, if volunteers can be found to dedicate their time to the community.
More than 500 people have signed a petition against a council plan to close the library in Hall Lane to cut costs following an unprecendented reduction in government funding.
But a proposal to use the nearby Waltham Forest Direct (WFD) shop, which is also due to close, as the site for a service staffed by volunteers is now being drawn up.
It is hoped the new library will save enough on staffing costs to meet the council’s savings target.
Conservative group leader, Cllr Matt Davis, said the authority has also suggested it will provide books and pay costs, such as insurance and electricity, if a suitable proposal is put forward.
The authority also has a long lease on the WFD shop, which would also limit expenditure.
Cllr Davis added: "I would say unequivocally, the council is keen to retain a library provision of some sort.
"It is possible if we make this work it could be a model for other libraries in the future.
"But we still need between 100 and 200 volunteers to make it work.
The council argues that a shake-up of libraries, including opening some larger branches for longer, will improve the service overall and broaden its appeal.
But campaigners believe the closure of council facilties in the area would make it difficult for residents, many of whom are elderly, to access vital services.
A 12-week public consultation on the plans, which also include the closure of Harrow Green library in Leytonstone, began last month.
A final decision is expected in October.
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