HIGHGATE Library is facing cuts of more then £100,000 – but a group of volunteers have stepped in to keep it going.

The Friends of Highgate Library group, based in Chester Road, have struck a deal with the council that will mean no opening hours are lost. At an open day on Saturday, 23 volunteers signed up to work alongside one full-time member of staff, employed by the council, from April 2015. It will stay open four days a week. 

Friends committee member Linda Lefevre said: “Since 2011 the Friends have been working with councillors, library management and community representatives to find a way to keep the library open. The planned partnership will spread the staff time over four days, needing a team of volunteers working with them to ensure a proper service.”

The Town Hall will continue to maintain the building and pay for new stock. Leisure chief Councillor Abdul Hai said: “Cabinet took a decision in 2011 that this would remain a Camden public library and we have been working with the Friends to support them develop a volunteer model to move forward.”

If you are interested in volunteering, email FOHL@dartmouthpark.org