VOLUNTEERS are getting set to open Kinver Community Library to the public when the building transfers into their hands next week.

The historic library in Vicarage Drive, at the heart of the village, is set to become community-managed and staffed by volunteers, who have been busily preparing for the official opening on Friday (January 6) by undergoing training and shadowing existing librarians.

Although the building and its maintenance will remain the responsibility of Staffordshire County Council, a specially-formed group known as Kinver Community Library Limited (KCLL) will take care of day-to-day operations.

The move comes after the county council decided to delegate responsibility for a number of libraries throughout the county to the public, and Kinver was one that was told it must become community-managed.

Ekkehard Schirrmacher, chairman of KCLL, has paid tribute to the financial support offered by many local organisations which has helped get the venture off the ground.

He said: “We’re heartened that so many enthusiastic and talented volunteers have come forward to ensure the success of this project.”

The scheme has been backed with initial funding from Kinver Parish Council, Kinver Country Fayre, Kinver Rotary Club, The Wylde Trust, The Wrigley Trust and an anonymous village resident.

The Staffordshire Community Fund, following support from County Councillor Brian Edwards, has also contributed £1,000, with Cllr Edwards saying: “I am pleased to support the new Kinver Library group.

“I wish them well in their venture and thank them for ensuring the library service will continue in our village.”

As well as ensuring traditional services, such as book lending and public access to computers continue, plans have also been put in place by KCLL to broaden out the services and offer a village 'hub' to residents, including the introduction of a café and a wide range of interest groups and activities for people of all ages.

Kinver’s MP Gavin Williamson, who will officially open the facility during a ceremony at 10am, said: “I am very much looking forward to the opening of Kinver Community Library. I know it will be very much valued by so many in the area and serve as a real hub for the local community.

“I would very much like to thank all those responsible in getting the library ready for opening and I am sure that it will be an enormous boost to Kinver residents.”

Mr Schirrmacher added: “We are all delighted to have Mr Williamson’s support in opening this new chapter of our village life.”