A NEW ‘ride and read’ scheme is being launched by the Friends of Darwen Library.

The group is concerned about people struggling to access services since the mobile library was cut as the borough council looks to save £33million.

Now a deal has been struck with Blackburn with Darwen Council’s community transport service for a minibus to collect elderly and disabled library users from their homes, to Darwen’s Knott Street facility, and to drop them off again later.

The scheme will run from 10am to 2pm every Wednesday, starting on September 14.

Friends of Darwen Library (FODL) chairman Councillor John East said: “We want to promote this service to members of public who are not near the library and who would otherwise struggle because of disability or because they are out in the sticks, not near any public transport links.

“It’s about using the library service and meeting new people.

“Every Wednesday, FODL will have a range of volunteers on hand to show people what facilities are available, and to provide tea and coffee.

“It’s about social engagement – it’s important that people don’t lose out.”

Budget cuts also mean that that Darwen Library now closes on Tuesdays.

The FODL say they hope to launch a cyber cafe in October at Darwen Aldridge Community Academy’s building in Redearth Road on Tuesdays from 10am to 2pm as an alternative for computer users.

To book a place on the Ride and Read scheme, contact Blackburn with Darwen’s community transport team on 01254 588190.