Full story with links

 http://www.schnews.org.uk/stories/Brought-to-Book/

A North London library closed by council cuts has been re-opened... by squatters. Closed by Barnet council back in April after an eighteen month wrangle Friern Barnet library will open its doors again on Saturday (8th) between 11 and 3. Since the library closed local campaigners have been staging 'pop up' libraries on the village green outside.

SchNEWS spoke to long term local campaigner Rosie Canning - “I don't see them as squatters I see them as library occupants. We're willing to work with Barnet Council to re-open the library. Unfortunately we think that the reason they want to close this and another library in North Finchley is so that both buildings can be sold to developers. The alternative they are offering us is temporary library in the Arts Depot building a mile and a half away.

“The important thing to realise is that this is a purpose built library and an important building for the community. There is huge community support we had thousands who signed the petition to keep it open. The library is a hub and is integrated with local schools that are within walking distance.”

Council officials have offered the squatters alternative accomodation in the nearby Friary Park House, prompting one to remark “It's a shame more squatting disputes can't be resolved like this, instead of trying to bang us all up”

For more on saving the library.

 https://sites.google.com/site/savefriernbarnetlibrary/home