THE proposed closure of three community libraries has continued to cause unrest among residents throughout Burnley.
A fierce debate between the public and Lancashire County Council erupted after discussions, which involved the creation of a public library at the new Burnley Sixth Form campus, had been held.
The design of a more modern facility in Barden Lane woul
d ultimately lead to the closure of libraries in Colne Road, Barbon Street and Briercliffe.
The latest instalment in this on-going battle occurred at the library in Briercliffe when local residents gathered at the entrance in order to demonstrate their dismay at the council's plans.
Frank Goldman Jordan, who attends the library on a regular basis, collected 239 signatures on his petition and is determined to spearhead a campaign in a bid to halt the closure of the libraries.
Mr Jordan said: "I took the initiative to write and distribute the petitions as I strongly believe that peaceful and direct action would have far more effect than going through all the bureaucratic red-tape machinery."
He added: "If our local Briercliffe library closes it will give a 'shattering blow' to one of the main sources of pleasure, especially to more elderly people in our little, local community.
"The library also acts as a great way for social news to be passed on, and this aspect would only further the loss of the village life aspect that Briercliffe can be justly proud of."
Ightenhill and Wheatley Lane Library in Fence were closed earlier in the year as Lancashire County Council found budget savings to keep its council tax rises to below 5%.
