I am writing before the county council makes its decision to cease the funding of various libraries around the county.

My local library, in Kennington, is one of those under threat. While I realise the county council must make tough decisions to balance the books in difficult economic times, I believe that to simply close local libraries will have a serious impact on communities and on people within and will really take the heart out of these communities.

Many people cannot afford to buy books and their only alternative is to borrow them at their local library.

Kennington Library is not just a place to simply borrow books but a thriving focal point for the community. It is a place where children enjoy the reading sessions provided for them. There are also book discussion sessions and literary festivals, where leading authors have given talks throughout the day.

I ask that the county council listens very carefully to those who are working to support communities as they try and keep their libraries open, including the Oxford West & Abingdon MP, Nicola Blackwood, who requested a Parliamentary debate on the subject.

I would like to thank, on behalf of the community, Nicola and all those who are trying to protect our valued library service.

GARETH JENNINGS, Councillor (Conservative) Kennington and South Hinksey Vale of White Horse District Counc