Kingsteignton Friends of the Library caught everyone's eye with the stunning picture by Mark Mitchell of library nudes published in last week's paper. 'It had a really serious message behind it,' said committee member Carolyn Moist, one of the women in the picture. 'A use it or lose it message about the library. 'We really need more people to join and to use the Kingsteignton library for it to stay open,' she said. The Don't strip us of our library picture attracted the attention of the Telegraph newspaper, which published an article on Saturday about Kingsteignton's fight under the heading No book covers. Said Mrs Moist: 'I've had phone calls from all over the place as a result of the photo. The spin-off has been terrific.' The consultation period is shortly to close, with questionnaires needing to be back with the county council by Monday. A decision on which, if any, of the 12 libraries earmarked for closure is expected this autumn. The four libraries under threat in Teignbridge are Kingskerswell, Kingsteignton, Ipplepen and Shaldon. The Friends group is holding a meeting with Lynn Osbourne, Devon County Council's head of libraries, tomorrow. Library workers from Kingsteignton wanted to be present but Ms Osbourne has specified that no staff are permitted, only Friends committee members. 'The librarians don't feel they would be allowed to join the Friends,' said Mrs Moist. 'Its a great shame as our aims are to work together for the good of the library.' The group is planning a book signing at the library on August 12, from 10am to noon, when author Norman Lewis – also in the picture – will sign copies of his book Circle of Friends. 'There will also be competitions for children and adults,' said Mrs Moist. Lord Clifford of Chudleigh is patron of the group.
