Campaigners in Wembley celebrated the latest chapter in the saga to re-open Preston Library three-and-a-half years after it was closed by Brent Council.

Volunteers opened the doors of Preston Community Library in the former Preston Library building on Carlton Avenue East, Wembley.

The reopening week coincided with World Book Night and St George’s Day, where, known for its track record of hosting literary events, residents put on a pavement performance of Macbeth.

The volunteer-run group was able to give away hundreds of children’s books, including David Almond’s Skellig, World Book Night’s chosen title.

As well as offering English as a second language (ESOL) teaching, creative writing, newspapers and magazines, and Scrabble, the community library is now able to start lending its 5,000-plus books toadults and children.

Geraldine Cook, who organised the event, said: “It was fabulous to have this opportunity to spread the love of reading and in particular to share this modern classic and thrilling children’s novel.”

Samantha Warrington, trustee of Preston Community Library, said: “After three-and-a-half long years without a library, we are thrilled to be able to offer books and so much more to the local community.In addition to our books and reading space we will this week start to offer yoga classes, and will soon be screening films as a community cinema.”

She added: “We want to open the building as much as we can to offer a diverse range of activities for all sections of the community, and we need more people to volunteer to help. We also need shelving, so that we can have all our books on display, and any donations will be very welcome.”

Preston Library was closed by Brent council in 2011 alongside Tokyngton, Neasden, Kensal Rise, Barham and Cricklewood, to save £1million a year.