LIBRARY volunteers are feeling aggrieved after recent changes which has seen the facility’s space limited.

Atherton Library on York Street has had its area reduced since the Life Centre information desk moved into the building in November.

The Atherton Library Support Group, which holds a range of classes for people such as a crafts group and a mums and tots session, believe the change has made it difficult to accommodate its sessions.

Group member Mabel Jones said: “It feels like we are being squeezed out with the Life Centre moving into the library- it is in the wrong place.

“There is not enough space for the mums and tots class when they come in with their prams.

“The library is so important to people- it was my education as a child as my family had no money for books.

“It is an important for everyone in the community and we deserve better."

The group, which was founded in 2011, has raised around £14,000 for various charities in the last seven years through events such as coffee mornings.

They also organise special seasonal events for its younger visitors with Father Christmas going to see them at the library last Thursday.

Lesley O’Halloran, assistant director for customer services and resources at the council, said: “The Life Centre in Atherton has moved into the library which means residents can now access council services and support in a convenient and central location.

“We are aware of the concerns expressed by the Atherton Library Support Group and we will be meeting with the group shortly.

“We have a number of potential measures to help address their concerns which we hope will be of benefit for all library and Life Centre users.”

The support group are also looking for volunteers to help with distributing leaflets to residents.

For more information about volunteering and the support group, contact the library on 01942 404817.