LOCAL people are being urged to join the fight to save Mitcheldean Library by using the facility as frequently as possible.

The Action Group, set up to fight proposals to close the library as part of county council cost cutting, say that people from Mitcheldean, Drybrook and Longhope believe there is a strong need for the facility.

They say they have prepared a strong case for the library to be retained. They argue that it serves all sectors of the community and should include local adult education courses. links to local jobs, acess for parenting groups and facilities for start-up businesses.

In a statement the Action Group says: All of these are also county council objectives, and support from the local community will help ensure they are delivered in ways that help save money."

A spokesman added: "In this difficult economic time the library depends on people from the local community to use it and to help run it. Success is dependent on local efforts to keep this purpose-built library open for everyone's benefit. A community-supported library can affect your futures, and you families' futures – please help to save it, or else we may lose it."