Hundreds of residents have rallied together in a determined campaign to prevent the closure of Comrie Library in Perthshire. More than 500 signatures have been gathered against the closure of the library, which is among seven libraries in PKC facing an uncertain future due to a decision to relocate services to a new community campus in Pitlochry.
The meeting held at Comrie’s White Church, organized by Comrie Community Council, saw a turnout of over 100 people, including representatives from Culture Perth and Kinross. Protest actions have been led by campaigners, with residents demonstrating outside Birnam Library in Dunkeld and planning further protests at Scone Library.
Barbara Murray of the Save Comrie Library group highlighted the importance of the library to the community, emphasising the non-monetary value it holds. Questions posed to Culture Perth and Kinross officials during the meeting regarding the closure went largely unanswered, prompting further engagement with MSPs to address concerns.
A spokesperson from Culture Perth and Kinross acknowledged the community’s passion for their library and expressed a commitment to explore alternative options to maintain library services amidst necessary financial savings. The council is considering community-led models, click-and-collect services, and expanded mobile library activities to ensure access to library services.
Meetings on library closures are scheduled in other Perthshire locations, including Auchterarder, Scone, and Alyth. The strong community response in Comrie reflects the deep significance of local libraries as vital community assets, prompting continued efforts to retain these essential services for residents across Perth and Kinross.
In summary, the community of Comrie in Perthshire has united to oppose the closure of Comrie Library, joining forces with other affected areas to challenge the proposed relocation of library services. The campaign reflects a broader recognition of the invaluable role libraries play in community life and the determination to safeguard access to these vital resources.