A PETITION to save Rishton Library has attracted more than 190 supporters in two days.

Save Rishton Library was launched following Lancashire County Council’s announcement on Friday that dozens of libraries are set to close.

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Councillors have been asked to open up a consultation period to discuss alternatives for the 106 buildings earmarked for closure across Lancashire before final decisions are made later this year.

Teacher Emma Clark, 40, who launched the petition, said: “I am excited that the petition has gained so much momentum.

“I want us to protect the library for ourselves but also for future generations because it is such an integral part of the community.

“I think it would be devastating for the village if it closed and it would have huge effects on the home education of children.”

The petition will be delivered to Cllr Jennifer Mein, leader of Lancashire County Council.

Mrs Clark, of The Esplanade, said: “While we acknowledge budgets are being cut we cannot lose these lifelines for the young, the old and the rest of us in the middle. Please sign this petition — not only for Rishton but for all local libraries — and let us make our voices heard.”

Rishton resident Ursula Vasey-Graham, 51, said: “Rishton library is a hub for the town. There are various social groups that meet there, and people of all ages use the computers, whether for job seeking or preparing letters and documents.

"There is a risk that people will become socially isolated and the unemployed risk losing benefits as they cannot fulfil their Jobseeker agreement due to not being able to search for jobs on the internet.”

One resident said on the petition that lives will be much poorer without the library. Another said the library inspires children.

Cllr Ken Moss, who represents Rishton on Hyndburn Borough Council, said: “We are looking at ways we can save it and keep the library open.

“There are community groups across the country who have taken on libraries and other public buildings — so as a starting point, we are going to look at how much it will cost to run. There are lots of options on the table but the key will be active volunteers.