Hundreds of book lovers turned out to support a pop-up library in Friern Barnet last Saturday.

Crowds gathered to show their support for the People’s Library where they could chose from an array of 1,000 donated books and enjoy a selection of tea and cake.

The event was held in a marquee outside Friern Barnet Library, which was closed by Barnet Council on Thursday, April 5.

Organiser Roger Tichborne of Mill Hill, said: “We have shown there is a need for a library, people are interested in it and it’s supported by the community. Now it’s up to Barnet Council to see whether they will back what the community wants.”

Mr Tichborne has pledged to keep the People’s Library running if the council allows him to pay £500 peppercorn rent to hold it at Friern Barnet Library.

He plans to open the library from 4pm to 8pm on Tuesdays and from 11am to 3pm on Saturdays, as well as acoustic music and book reading events on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Mr Tichborne said: “We feel we should at least give the council the opportunity to give us the chance to show we can do this. In the space of a week we went from nothing, to a really successful event where 400 to 500 people turned up, which is phenomenal. This will be a good way forward.”

The council voted in favour of closing Friern Barnet and North Finchley Libraries in favour of opening a new service at the artsdepot in North Finchley.

The Times Series is waiting for a comment from Barnet Council.