PROTESTERS trying to keep a valued library open say the council has “seriously underestimated” the support for the facility.

Under the strategic library review Friern Barnet Library would be rolled in with North Finchley Library in a new venue at the artsdepot, nearly two miles away.

Last week Councillor Robert Rams said he had not heard from any protesters after 400 people joined in a silent reading event at the library in Friern Barnet Road to support campaigners.

He added: “I feel we have come up with proposals that will improve Barnet’s library service with more books, longer opening hours and more support for children and literacy in the borough.

“We are striving to do this at a time of unprecedented restrictions on public spending. I don’t for one moment expect that there will be universal enthusiasm for any change.”

But campaigners say Cllr Rams has underestimated the strength of support for the library, which is close to six schools and Woodhouse College.

Maureen Ivens, a self-employed conference interpreter and translator who lives in Crescent Road said: “ The library is a life line for me as I need to work outside my home at times during the week to break up the feeling of isolation I can experience because of my working conditions.

“I moved to the area five years ago and have made friends at the library. It's a friendly place but one whose atmosphere is conducive to work. I would not make the journey to the artsdepot, it's just too far.

“So many other people feel the same way. I think the Council's Strategic Review is ill-conceived. The financial arguments just don't stack up so we'll be continuing our campaign to save this key service to our community."

A second round of consultation on the plans is set to close on June 13, but Tamar Andrusier slammed the format of it.

He said: “It is clear to me that the Council has seriously underestimated how much Friern Barnet Library means to the local community.

“So many friends and neighbours are shocked and angry to hear about the plans to close it and children from local primary schools are really upset. “Many local residents are also discussing the shamefully slanted consultation document, saying how obvious it is that the results are a foregone conclusion. People feel their views will be ignored.”

Campaigners are now calling on residents to sign their petition and email their views to Cllr Rams, by visiting their website http://sites.google.com/site/savefriernbarnetlibrary/.