Reading the signs wrongly (From Swindon Advertiser)

Reading the signs wrongly

10:43am Friday 4th July 2008 in Search

THE Old Town Library is not dead and buried, despite a claim made at the weekend.

The spectacular Old Town Festival parade dazzled spectators at the weekend.

But among those parading was a group of people carrying a mock coffin.

A cardboard headstone attached to it read Old Town Library R.I.P?

Earlier this year doubts were raised over the library's future in light of the opening of the new central library this autumn.

A council plan would have seen the Old Town Library closed, but a campaign to save it proved successful.

The mock coffin and headstone at Sunday's parade made some people worry again.

But Shirley Burnham, from Friends of the Old Town Library, said that the library was thriving'.

"I spoke to those carrying the coffin," she said. "They didn't mean anything by it, they were trying to help.

"The question mark was not quite clear so people missed it and thought it was a statement against the library. It was all a bit of fun."

Justin Tomlinson, cabinet member for leisure, culture and recreation, said: "We're extremely pleased that usage of the Old Town library has rocketed by 36 per cent.

"That is due in no small part to the efforts of the Friends of Old Town Library and the local residents who have supported it.

"All our services are reviewed annually, and Old Town Library will be looked at again next April.

"But on current usage figures it can hold its head high.

"The stunt at the festival at the weekend was bizarre and, as far as I am aware, was not connected to the Friends group."

The news comes as a relief to users of the library.

Eddie Duddy said: "I use it very often. It saves me having to travel all the way to the town centre."

Joy Brake, of Wood Street, said: "I come here all the time, I have done for years. It would be a shame if it were to close down."