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Residents in Dollis Hill will soon be able to pick up or borrow a book in their local shops and eateries thanks to a new project to improve library services.

The Dollis Hill ‘‘Love Books’’ Project will see books from Brent’s Library Service collected and brought to the area’s cafés, eateries and shops.

They can then be used like a library where regulars can borrow and read books based on a trust basis.

The idea was conceived by the chair of the CAMS residents association, Alex Melia, and local councillor for the Dollis Hill ward, Cllr Alison Hopkins (Lib Dem) who both teamed up to bring the benefits of a library back to the area.

Originally the books were intended for the Comber Close Community Centre but Mr Melia and Cllr Hopkins decided instead to ask cafés and shops to get on board in order to create a series of miniature libraries across the community.

Dollis Hill has been one of the areas to suffer at the hands of the decision to close six libraries in October 2011.

Both Neasden and Cricklewood Libraries, which were used by residents in the ward, were among those to face the axe.

Mr Melia said: “We thought it would be better to place the books in the heart of the local community, in cafés and eateries. It will hopefully improve business for the owners and also give residents a reason to go out and socialise and use the area’s amenities more.

“I believe there is nothing like it in this country and we are very excited by it.”

So far the businesses to come on board include the Ox and Gate Pub in Coles Green Road and next door café, Mrs B’s.

Bellissima Ristorante, an Italian restaurant in Coles Green Road and Wing Yip, a Chinese supermarket and café on Humber Road, have also joined in.

Cllr Hopkins said: “If anyone else wants to get in touch and house books for residents, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of us.”

The project is expected to be officially launched at the end of this month. Email alexandermelia@hotmail.co.uk or cllr.alison.hopkins@brent.gov.uk