More than 1,800 people have backed a campaign to save a Perth city centre library from closure.
A petition launched by the Friends of the West Mill Street Library group was signed by hundreds of locals.
This was handed over to Perth and Kinross Council on Thursday as part of efforts to force the local authority to drop controversial cost-cutting measures.
In a bid to slash its outgoings by £281,000, the council carried out an intense review of library services in the area.
Despite recording a 23.7% increase in visitor numbers over the last two years, it intends to keep all libraries shut on a Monday, while getting rid of the West Mill Street facility completely.
This has been described as a “major blow” to elderly and visually-impaired users, as the building holds a significant collection of large print and audio books.
Vice-chairwoman of the Friends of the West Mill Street Library group, Irene Hamilton, told The Courier the council’s decision was “short-sighted”.
She said: “Older people value the personal service, the social interaction and the convenience that the library offers.
“We have raised £150,000 and gifted that to buy large print and audio books which are still used throughout the whole library system.
“That’s going to be a big loss, not having that.”
Mrs Hamilton welcomed the support shown by locals, however, and said she was “overwhelmed” by the response to the petition.
“The library users have been absolutely elated by the support we have received,” she added.
“At this point, we are hoping that Perth and Kinross Council will reconsider the proposed closure decision.”
Her views were echoed by Sybil McFarlane, who has been involved with West Mill Street Library for 14 years and feels the council should be paying closer attention to the needs of those who use the library as they play a key role in the community.
“Most of us are in the demographic area of 60 to 80-year-olds and we are the people who are most likely to vote,” she continued.
“I would suggest that the council be very wary of that fact.
“I think closing the library will be a big loss to the community because it’s more than just a place to get books. Older and vulnerable people are able to access help and advice, as well as enjoy a bit of peace and quiet it’s a very relaxed atmosphere.”
Despite delivering the petition successfully, the determined campaigners won’t be resting on their laurels. The next stage of their bid to save West Mill Street Library is expected to be unveiled in the next few days.