Long distance support for local library

30 November 2011

A CALIFORNIAN couple are among the latest supporters of Killyleagh Library to join the campaign to secure its future.

Geraldine McGuffin and her partner Dr. Arnie Baker have joined Friends of the Library Killyleagh (FOLK), which has been established to lobby support for the local facility.

Killyleagh Library has been under threat since earlier this year when library officials launched a consultation process over its future amid fears it is unviable.

Officials have since agreed to preserve the library until the end of the financial year as long as new premises are found and support for the library is maintained.

Geraldine said she was happy to pay the £5 membership for the group.

“We heard about the campaign to keep the library open and we really wanted to help,” she said.

“FOLK is the ideal way for us to lend our support. Last time we were in Ireland we visited the library — it was such a happy place.

“We love books and I am one of the readers here in San Diego for audio books for the blind. I would hate the library in Killyleagh to close — it is part of the beating heart of the village.”

This Friday morning members of FOLK are hosting a coffee and shortbread session from 11am for visitors to the library.

The library will also be open from 6.30pm to 8pm on Tuesday for the Community Christmas Tree Lighting Carol Service when there will be music and supporters will have the opportunity to join FOLK or take out a gift membership for someone else.

FOLK will also have a stand at the craft fair in the Dufferin Banqueting Hall.

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