'We saved our library and it was so worth it'

Residents who saved their library from closure 12 years ago say it has been a big commitment but "so worth it".

Volunteers took over the running of Anlaby Park Community Library when it was due to shut in 2013 as part of budget cuts by Hull City Council.

It is now set to undergo a major refurbishment of both the exterior, which has been funded by the council, and the interior, which is being paid for with money raised by volunteers.

Operational manager Mandy Abdulla said: "It's been a huge part of my life where I've met so many people from different walks of life. If you love books, you just don't want them to disappear off the shelves."

The library was due to close at the end of March 2013, but it was postponed after hearing residents' concerns and their campaign to keep it open.

In 2014, the Friends of Anlaby Park Library were officially given the lease to take it over.

Abdulla said the site had now transformed into a hub for the community.

"It's an amazing place. Lots of people come here, not just for the books," she said.

"We have lots of clubs, we have craft groups, baby bounce, art groups, bridge clubs, Age UK users and chess groups."

There are between 60 to 80 volunteers who help with both the day-to-day running of the library and organising fundraising events.

Steve Ashton, chair of governors, said: "They're very, very enthused about what we do here and they have the library at heart.

"We can call on them to do all sorts of things and they do. They will always muck in."

The building will also undergo structural repairs to address underlying issues, such as subsidence.

Due to the terms of the lease, the work will be funded by the council, which said it hoped it would "safeguard the long-term viability" of the site.

There will also be a full refurbishment of the interior, which will be paid for by money raised by the volunteers.

Volunteer Paula Suddards said: "It will be really good when it's all done.

"There will be lots of space for children, and lots of space for people to relax with a cuppa and choose their books. It will be fabulous."

The group said the work was expected to begin in July, and would continue until later in the year.

There will be temporary accommodation on the grounds to ensure the library does not have to close.

Listen to highlights fromHull and East Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North.

Download the BBC News app from the App Storefor iPhone and iPad orGoogle Play for Android devices