Volunteers are desperate to raise £20,000 to keep their library running as the deadline for closure gets closer.

The Friends of Rawdon Community Library have until May 31 to secure the funds or the library will shut.

Leeds City Council has given the friends until then to raise the money, which would cover a year’s operating costs.

If they are successful, the friends then plan to use the year to apply for grants and other donations to keep the library and the building running for a longer period of time.

“There will be considerable start up expenses in the first year: gas, electricity and water as well as money for new books, improving the building and community activities,” said Richard Taylor, treasurer for the friends.

“We are confident that the library can be self-financing in the longer term.”

The group is seeking sponsorship from local businesses and individuals to support the project, which as well as improving the library will make more use of the building as a community centre for learning, arts and social activities. Interested former residents of the area are also invited to make contact.

The friends also intend to become a registered charity if they are successful in raising the funds.

There will be a public meeting at the library on Saturday, March 24, at 1.15pm to update residents about the latest negotiations with the council and to give details about library sponsorship.

As part of cost-cutting measures, the library was earmarked for closure last year, but was been given a reprieve to assess its viability. The council decided to reduce the opening hours, including closure on Thursdays, but now it has opened again on Thursdays, staffed by volunteers.

To get in touch with the friends, call Richard Taylor on 0113 2502091 or e-mail rmgtaylor@aol.com