SILSDEN residents with different interests could work together to ensure both the town hall and library prosper in future years.

This is a suggestion of district councillor Andrew Mallinson as a potential solution to the threatened closure of the town’s library.

The library moved into the nearby town hall in 2013 when the two-storey building, in Kirkgate, underwent a £300,000 refurbishment.

Bradford Council recently announced it planned to close libraries in outlying areas as a cost-cutting measure, unless volunteers can be found to take them over.

Cllr Mallinson said he was “disgusted” that efforts to create a modern library in Silsden, massively increasing library usage, could have all been for nothing.

He said: “The whole idea of putting the library in the town hall was to increase footfall and raise its profile. If we lose that footfall it may have an effect on the town hall.”

Cllr Mallinson said the Friends would have to seriously consider taking over the administration of the library, even though there was only a small number of members.

He said: “They don’t have the capacity to take on the library as it stands, but they are very good in a managerial role, making sure things happen in the town hall.

“People will be out there, possibly retired, who have the time and capabilities to be there to open up the library and invite people in and choose books, but they don’t want the responsibility of behind-the-scenes and managing the building.”

Cllr Mallinson said the Friends were desperate for more volunteers to come on board for their own activities.

He said: “I would urge anyone to come forward if they have any interest in community life or practical skills they want to share, even if it’s making cups of coffee or buns.”

Visit silsdentownhall.org.uk for further information on how to get involved with the Friends.