VILLAGERS are being encouraged to share their views on the future of Silverdale library.

A question mark hangs over the Emesgate Lane library as Lancashire County Council cuts millions of pounds' spending.

Silverdale Parish Council's annual parish meeting heard that the number of libraries across the county will be trimmed from 74 to 34 - one in each planning area.

Julie Bell, Lancashire's head of libraries, museums, culture and registrars, said that a 12-week consultation would begin on May 16, with final decisions made on September 8. She urged members of the public to take part and said that all views would be logged.

Silverdale library's registered membership increased from 555 to 564 during the past year, said Mrs Bell. Weekly footfall dipped slightly, and there were 1,000 fewer visits.

'Knit and natter' sessions and World Book Day events were among activities enjoyed, as well as an author visit and drop-in sessions for people with dementia. The library also supplies books for several reading groups.

A member of the public - one of 29 to attend the parish meeting - asked for 'plentiful supplies of paper questionnaires' to be made available during the consultation period, as not everyone has access to the internet.

Cllr Terry Bond, parish council chairman, added that the library is the only place in the village offering public access to the internet.