MORE than 60 people campaigned outside New Mill Library in protest over plans to close it.

The residents are concerned after Kirklees Council announced that it was looking to close the library to save money.

On Saturday morning the residents were collecting signatures for a petition as part of their campaign.

They were backed by Jason McCartney, the prospective Conservative parliamentary candidate for Colne Valley, who said he was using the library last week and was delighted to see adults and children using the facilities.

Mr McCartney described the library as “invaluable” and said: “It was fantastic to see so many people turn out to show their support to keep the library open.

“I was in the library only last week and there were parents in the story corner with their kids reading books and adults using the computers – this place is really used by the local community.

“It is an excellent resource and is much needed.

“Everyone seems really gobsmacked about the decision.

“They feel like it’s a kick in the teeth because services like this are vital to the community here.”

He said the facilities at the library such as the computers were invaluable for people looking for jobs or writing their CVs.

While it offered young children the chance to spend time reading.

Figures released last week show that more and more people are using the Holmfirth Road library.

It had 12,285 visitors in 2008/09, up from 11,696 the year before.

Mr McCartney added: “This part of the Colne Valley constituency will miss this library if it was to close.

“It’s not easy for people to just go to the nearest library – there is a big hill to go up and come back down so walking there isn’t easy.

“While parking isn’t great in Holmfirth either and we shouldn’t be encouraging people to use their cars to visit a library.

“I know money is tight but closing down a facility that is well used is the wrong decision.

“I am hoping we can have an affect and the council can look again at the decision, look at the figures and listen to the needs of the community here.”

The council’s Cabinet announced last month that the library would close. More than 1,000 people have signed a petition in a bid to keep the library open.

Two people are employed at the library and residents say they are integral to its success.