Alliance welcomes readers' victory for libraries

12.00.00am GMT Tue 1st Feb 2005

ALLIANCE Assembly member and East Belfast Councillor, Naomi Long, has welcomed a stay of execution for Belfast libraries.

Cllr Long, who handed over a petition of over 2,000 signatures to the Chief Executive and Chief Librarian from Belfast Education and Library Board late last month on behalf of Ballyhackamore library users, stated:

"This story is not over yet, but the immediate threat of closure has been lifted, and that gives the education boards a chance to write a happier ending for Belfast readers.

"I know that Ballyhackamore library, and the others too, provide an extremely valuable service to the local community, which goes far beyond simply a book lending service. They play a central role in communities for many, and closure would have further devastated many areas where there are few enough educational facilities.

"There was a commitment and determination amongst local people that their libraries would not close without a fight, and I am glad that the people's voice has been heard."