A NEW library has officially opened in the Barlow Institute in Bolton Road, Edgworth.

It is the start of a 12 - month pilot scheme, and already has 100 new members.

Blackburn with Darwen Council withdrew the village’s mobile library last year as part of £33 million budget cuts. This is the second time residents have stopped council cuts from destroying services.

The Institute was under threat after Blackburn with Darwen Council announced it was to withdraw its annual £42,000 and withdraw its paid staff.

Volunteers are in charge and responsible for the running costs, although the council will maintain the building.

Blackburn with Darwen Mayor Cllr Karimeh Foster and chief librarian Kath Sutton officially opened the library.

Organiser Penny Clissold said: “Everyone has been delighted with the fantastic response which has exceeded our expectations. We have been overwhelmed with book donations so don’t need any more at the moment.”

The library is open every Saturday from 10am to 1pm, and storytime sessions for youngsters are already proving to be a hit.

There is also a cafe selling hot and cold drinks as well as snacks.

The library stocks around 500 books. Volunteers hope the numbers joining will continue to grow, and there is a possibility that the library’s opening hours could be extended if there is the demand.