LIBRARY campaigners are to meet government officials as they continue their fight to save services.
Three campaigners will travel to Whitehall on Thursday to meet officials from the Department for Media, Culture and Sport (DMCS), to call for a public inquiry into the Isle of Wight Council’s decision to slash library services.
It follows a meeting at the DMCS last Monday, when council officials were invited to explain their plans for Island libraries.
"We have received an invitation to explain our views and discuss why we think the council acted wrongly in its very flawed consultation and the negotiations that followed it," said East Cowes resident Dave Quigley, one of the campaigners who will attend the meeting.
"We are confident we will get a good response and there will be a judicial review.
"We will also deliver submissions from library groups and individuals, and explain our aims in bringing a legal action against the council."
Campaigners are still hoping to challenge the council’s decision to reduce opening hours at many public libraries and transfer others to community groups, despite being told by the Legal Services Commission their case had no realistic chance of success. Their legal aid has been put on hold — a decision the campaigners are appealing — and they are trying to raise the money themselves.
"Even if we win the appeal, the community will still be expected to make a contribution. Our target is £15,000," said Mr Quigley.
"I don’t know how much we have raised so far but we have received a few £5 and £10 donations and at least one £50 donation.
"One way or another, we are confident we will save the libraries.
"We have so much support and so many things have been badly handled by the council they need to be challenged."
However, the council has always maintained the library service still meets its legal duty to provide a comprehensive and efficient service.
Claims the consultation was flawed have always been denied by the council.
Reporter: emilyp@iwcpmail.co.uk