'Wickerman' library campaign gathers speed
WHITHRON library, which featured in the cult film The Wicker Man, looks likely to be axed as the council tries to balance its books.
The Wickerman Library faces becoming a casualty of cash cuts as the government and council try to balance their books.
But campaigners have launched a determined battle to save it.
The library has been an important part of the community for 99 years. Originally built by public subscription, the library has become a vital resource for local schoolchildren and adults, not only for books but for those wishing to use broadband internet connections.
Closure would mean many isolated houses, unable to get a broadband connection, would lose an important world-wide communication link.
Jan Cole who owned the Caf Cree in Newton Stewart before moving to Derbyshire is spearheading a Facebook campaign.
She told The Gazette: "Stock has been drastically reduced over the past twelve months, many shelves are bare and a recent installation of WiFi is still waiting to be connected.
"The library is part of the famous Wickerman Trail which popular with tourist fans as well as, surprisingly, stag parties who have been known to turn up in fancy dress. Occasionally fans will be seen to re-enact the film, or take a rubbing of the plaque outside."
The campaign has received backing from many quarters, local as well as afar. Des Dillion, acclaimed author, playwright and stand up comedian as well Glaswegian sculpture Jack Sloan have both given their support.
Jan and her supporters want the opportunity to speak to the council face to face and discuss a way forward.
She feels closure is unnecessary and that the residents of Whithorn, especially the elderly, as well as those living in nearby outlying areas will suffer.
She told us: "The library is the hub of the community, we have to make sure it stays."
To raise awareness of the closure threat, Birdie Eastwood a frequent user, organised a protest sit-in and other events are likely to take place as the campaign gathers momentum.
One suggestion to save the library is that it is placed in community ownership - but other options will be explored by campaigners.
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Weather for Newton Stewart
Tuesday 22 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 8 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: South
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Sunny spells
Temperature: 11 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: South
