A COMMUNITY library is facing closure as part of a series of budget cuts.
Only a year ago Sydenham Library was celebrating its 100th anniversary but its closure could be given the green light at tonight's meeting of the mayor and cabinet.
The plans for the library in Sydenham Road, ranked by officers as the worst in the borough, was put to the public accounts select committee on September 27 as part of a £10m money-saving package.
Reports from Lewisham Council show the library's closure could save up to £165,000 during 2006/7.
It claims the library, which was founded in 1904, is "poorly sited" and has limited potential to increase usage.
Council officers have also recommended it be moved into the main shopping area of Sydenham.
They have also warned its closure could mean the council fails to meet its obligations under the Public Libraries Standard, which says all households must be within a mile of a library.
The news has come as a shock to residents and schools in the area, which regularly use the library.
Sydenham Society chairman Pat Trembath said: "I'm angry. It is a much-used library in a highly residential area.
"The people taking decisions in high places don't know how the community use this library."
Haseltine and Our Lady and St Philip Neri primaries are two of the schools in the area which visit the library.
Haseltine's deputy headteacher Ellie Whilby said: "It's outrageous.
"Children go there every day it is open.
"It is a really important experience for children as many parents don't take them there."
She added: "I would be really disappointed. The children get a lot out of it and I hope it won't be shut down."
Chris Best, ward councillor and cabinet member for social inclusion, said: "I will be speaking tonight and will advise the mayor not to close the library as it is a valuable community resource."
Lewisham Mayor Steve Bullock will accept or reject the budget cuts tonight.
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