A COUNCILLOR has admitted there is not “universal enthusiasm” for plans to change the library services.

On Saturday 400 people attended a silent reading protest at Friern Barnet Library, which is threatened with closure under the council’s libraries strategy.

Following the protest hundreds more people have signed petitions calling for the closure to be stopped, in order to save the treasured facility.

But Councillor Robert Rams, who is in charge of public services, said he has not heard from any of the protesters directly.

He added: “I feel we have come up with proposals that will improve Barnet’s library service with more books, longer opening hours and more support for children and literacy in the borough.

“We are striving to do this at a time of unprecedented restrictions on public spending. I don’t for one moment expect that there will be universal enthusiasm for any change.

“None of the Friern Barnet petitioners have made contact with me, but I would be happy to meet with them. I’m very interested in hearing any proposals coming forward from residents and library users during consultation.”

The second phase of consultation on the plans, which would also see Hampstead Garden Suburb Library closed, is currently underway.