Cycling, Mudlarking and sun: Taking over the libraries

1.05.2011

The date that Eco Computer Systems took over 3 of the 5 libraries earmarked for closure.

Sydenham Library, Grove Park and Crofton Park

I wanted to be at Crofton Park library for the handing over of management from Lewisham Council library services to Eco Computer Systems.

I got there nice and early it was not yet 9.00am, so I sat on the modern stainless steel seat and gathered my thoughts, today was the day that these libraries become Community Hubs.

When the announcement came that five libraries in the lewisham borough were to be shut, as you can imagine the communities of these libraries were up in arms. Coming together they organized marches protested outside Lewisham Borough premises, and went along to the meetings at the civic centre, there was uproar as well there should be.

Because of their actions, there is proof people power does work, and I can write this piece.

Bang on 9.00 am the doors opened and I was swept in along with volunteers and users, mothers and children. This is not an exaggeration and It goes along with the outrage that many community members felt when they heard that the libraries were under threat. It also underlines what many users said; these libraries are used, wanted and needed.

Councilor Pauline Morrison and Campaigner Karen Jonason were there to mark the occasion with a speech. They have both worked extremely hard, as have all the members of the community to make sure that their library was not closed and were ecstatic that their hard work had paid off.

Off to Sydenham Library next where I used to spend many happy hours as a child, my childhood was a very scary and lonely existence and being able to go to the library was a great escape for me, I would get a pile of books out and hide behind sofas, chairs and under tables and read for hours. I stepped into the doorway and it was like stepping back in time. It was quite busy by the time I got there and to be honest Sydenham needs a lot more volunteers, if you or someone you know would like to learn some new skills go and volunteer. Great news for Sydenham Community Radio Station they have a permanent new home at the library that far exceeds anything they were trying to find

Grove Park was just as busy as the rest, by noon a would be Silver Surfer was asking for I.T. lessons and the children’s section was very busy, some people hadn’t even realized that the library was meant to be shut that day and were surprised and pleased that the doors were open and would always be open from now on.

Sadly for New Cross Library it could not be saved and I believe the campaign goes on to find a solution to reopen this building. Age Exchange is in talks to take over some of the library service with Blackheath Library.

We wish them luck