Old Town Library has been granted temporary reprieve to stay open, due to the 'Save Old Town Library' campaign. I urge all residents to sign up as 'Friends of Old Town Library' and to join the library! 

You can enroll as a member of 'Friends of Old Town Library' by emailing friendsofoldtownlibrary@hotmail.co.uk 

 For more information about Friends of Old Town Library, visit their website:

http://www.friendsofoldtownlibrary.co.uk/

August 2008 Update:

In February this year Old Town’s library, which had been threatened with closure, was granted a reprieve until April 2009 when its status will be reviewed once again.   The Council’s decision was warmly welcomed by residents of Old Town, Lawn and other neighbouring areas who find this amenity indispensable.  Retailers and businesses also want Old Town to continue to thrive and enjoy its own amenities so they, too, have given their support to the library and the Friends.  Councillors representing the area have attended events and given the Friends some positive feedback.

Everyone is acutely conscious of the warning issued in February of “Use it, or Lose it” and, determined to take up the challenge, the Friends are working hard to raise the library’s profile in the community. 

A ‘launch’ party in March was followed by the Friends’ art competition between local schools.   The Library Service collaborated with the Swindon Festival of Literature to hold a charming event for children in Old Town Library in May, and June saw supporters and Friends turning out in force for the Old Town Festival Procession.  The website: www.friendsofoldtownlibrary.co.uk , in collaboration with Swindon 105.5 Community Radio, is running writing competitions every month and, currently, a new photography competition, to promote the library in every possible way.

Having read this, Shirley hopes you will be motivated to visit Old Town’s library and discover for yourself why it is valued so highly by so many.

August 2008