Under a pilot scheme proposed by Swindon Borough Council, Highworth Library is threatened with closure. This will affect library users in Highworth and all the surrounding villages for whom this is an essential public service. The library provides 29 services beyond the loan of books and other media, and is a lifeline for so many for access to the internet and signposting to other organisations.

The closure of the library will see the end of Rhyme Time for preschoolers, reading services for local schools and care homes, the end of free internet access, including for those on Universal Credit without access elsewhere, the loss of a home for Job Club and Citizens' Advice. It will also mean the end of schemes such as the summer holiday Book Challenge for school children, a programme that enhances the reading ability of even the most reluctant readers.

The long term effect of the closure of Highworth Library will be felt by every generation and social group in the community: usage of Highworth library services is split evenly 50/50 adults and children and reaches well out into the surrounding villages who have no library service of their own.

Sign this petition to prevent the closure of Highworth Library.