MORE than 30 people attended a meeting to discuss the future of Silsden Library.

Many of them pledged to volunteer their time if the library is handed over to the community by Bradford Council.

The local authority plans to save money by closing the facility, along with several other branch libraries in the district, unless volunteers come forward to take them over.

Jackie Kitwood, Bradford’s head of libraries, outlined what the council is proposing to offer any community group willing to take over the library.

Ward councillor Adrian Naylor, who organised the meeting last week, said the gathering was the first step towards saving the library.

He added: “I was heartened by the response, with more than 30 people attending.

“The more volunteers we have the easier it will be to form rotas.

“We can now take this to the next level and form a management group for the library and start proper negotiations with Bradford Council."

Anyone who wishes to volunteer should contact Bradford Library Service or e-mail adrian.naylor@bradford.gov.uk for more details.