Community groups gathered outside Lundin Links Library yesterday to voice their support for the closure-threatened facility.
The library is one of 16 facing the axe under plans to save Fife Council cash, but members of Largo Community Choir, Largo Mums ‘n’ Tots and Largo Pre-school Playgroup were among those railing against the proposals.
Local resident Heather Paterson said the library does not fulfil the criteria for closure set out by the Fife Cultural Trust, stressing that it is performing well, is in a suitable building and offers good value for money.
She said: “Many of the libraries listed for closure are in unsuitable buildings or have seen large drops in use.
“That’s not the case with Lundin Links. It’s already a valued asset and there are simple initiatives that can make the library’s future even brighter.”
Award-winning children’s author Chae Strathie, who lives in Lundin Links, added: “Shutting this library will mean that many people especially the young, elderly and those on low incomes will find it much, much harder to take advantage of library services. This is utterly wrong.
“In the 21st Century it is an unacceptable backward step to shut libraries on the scale that is being suggested.
“To take Lundin Links Library away from those who need and cherish it most would be nothing short of disgraceful.”
Largo Mums ‘n’ Tots group has also written to councillors about its concerns, saying they valued being able to walk to a local library.
Jean Morrison, 83, who has used the library for over 30 years, concluded: “I and others like me, would miss it greatly, especially as we can easily order and pick up the books.”