Naomi Long's campaign for library to stay open

12.00.00am GMT Tue 18th Jan 2005

Supporters of Ballyhackamore Library have handed over a petition containing over 2000 signatures to East Belfast Alliance Assembly Member and Party Education Spokesperson, Naomi Long this week.

Cllr Long, who has been campaigning in support of the retention of library services, has arranged a meeting with the Chief Executive and Chief Librarian from Belfast Education and Library Board this week at which the petition will be formally handed over.

Cllr. Naomi Long said, "The fact that over 2000 signatures have been collected already is incredibly impressive and shows the strength of feeling among local people about the threat to the future of their library service.

"Ballyhackamore Library is a modern building, very well used by local people of all ages and it provides an extremely valuable service to the local community, which goes beyond simply a book lending service. There is a commitment and determination amongst local people that Ballyhackamore Library should remain open.

"I want the Board to know how much the service is respected and valued by local people as they make their decisions in relation to future library provision across the city."