Campaigners open pop-up library after council axed Barham branch last year

Delighted youngsters came out in force over the weekend to celebrate the opening of a new ‘pop-up’ library.

The temporary reading room was opened by Friends of Barham Library (FOBL) on Saturday (21).

The building, occupies the site of a former nursery next to Barham Primary School, in Danethorpe Road, Wembley, and more than 50 delighted residents turned up to celebrate the grand opening and sign up as members of the facility.

Commenting on the successful opening of the library, Gaynor Lloyd from FOBL, said: “It was a real thrill to see the old nursery packed with local people having a good time.

“The young people in particular got stuck in to the great collection of books donated by local supporters.

“We are looking forward to welcoming many new faces over the coming Saturdays.”

Barham Library, originally in Harrow Road, was opened on May 31, 1952, and would be celebrating its Diamond Jubilee this year.

However, it was closed down last year by Brent Council alongside Cricklewood, Kensal Rise, Neasden, Preston and Tokyngton libraries in a move which will save the local authority �1m.

The new facility, which will be open on weekends only initially, will offer a variety of activities including free talks and “read-ins” while residents are also encouraged to bring books their own books to add to the growing collection.