Why we’ll continue our fight to save Lambeth’s Carnegie Library

Since it’s closure last month, the Carnegie Library in Lambeth has been under peaceful occupation – but the council’s response to the message of defiance has been patchy

It’s quite a strange feeling, chatting to a child about whether they are warm enough and have enough food – through the metal barrier across the front of a library. The Carnegie Library in Lambeth has been under peaceful occupation since 31 March, the day it was due to close after 110 years. What began as a sad party for a few locals grew into an occupation, when those involved, including several very articulate, slightly cold but generally well-nourished children, decided to stay on for the night, and the next night. They shall not be moved, as one of them said, “until the council change their mind”. When the building reopens next year, it is supposed to be as a “healthy living centre”. Books will be part of the package; librarians will not.

Related: Authors support occupation of south London library in protest against closure

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