Squatters 'to reopen London library closed in council cuts'

Squatters have occupied a north London library five months after it was closed down as part of council cost-cutting moves.

The group said they “invaded” empty Friern Barnet Library through an open window and have set themselves up as “community librarians”.

They claim they will reopen the library, which was closed by Barnet council in April, for 16 hours a week while a decision is made over its future.

Eight squatters entered last week, though today only three were sleeping inside. Some moved in after a law change this month made it a criminal offence to squat in residential properties.

One of the squatters, Dan, 31, a Hungarian previously involved in the occupation of Old Street magistrates’ court this year, claimed they want to save the building from demolition.

He said: “Libraries are cultural hubs, there are lots of reasons why people need them. People need to read books — even in the age of the internet, libraries are really crucial.”

The library closure followed a campaign by local residents opposed to plans for a merger with North Finchley library.

As part of Barnet council’s efforts to save £1.4 million from its library budget, it plans to create a new “landmark library” based at Artsdepot in North Finchley.

The squatters, who include students, artists and a former librarian, plan to reopen the building on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays between 11am and 3pm.

In a notice posted outside, the occupiers said they had “links with several groups and have begun negotiations with Barnet council”.