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The fight to save dozens of threatened libraries across the West has stepped up with book-lovers across the region rallying for their rescue.

In Gloucestershire, more than 7,000 people have signed a petition which was being handed in at Shire Hall today.

Any petition with more than 5,000 signatures forces councillors into a public debate over a matter, and library campaigners hope councillors will have to reconsider the plan to close 11 libraries in Gloucestershire.

Meanwhile in Somerset, library fans are launching a similar petition, over Somerset County Council's proposals to hand over 20 of its 34 libraries to the community, or ultimately close them.

Somerset County Council has proposed £5.4 million cuts in library services as part of its bid to save £75 million over the next three years.

Liz Williams, chair of Glastonbury's Chamber of Commerce, told a packed public meeting called by the new Friends of Glastonbury Library this week, her group supported the campaign.

"The campaign has our full support. Although it is not a commercial enterprise it is a critical resource for local businesses, and a great centre for research and it's vital that it continues."

Mayor John Cole stressed: "You have the full support of every single member of the town council."

Liberal Democrat County Councillor for Glastonbury Alan Gloak urged everyone to sign a paper petition which needs 5,000 signatures to force a debate, when the issue goes before the council. Signatures need to be given by January 21 to allow time for checking the petition.

The County Council Cabinet will discuss the issue on February 2.

For more information on the campaign ring Alan Gloak on 01458 831998 or e-mail saveglastonburylibrary@gmail.com

Somerset County council has also come under fire over the locations it has chosen for six consultation meetings with officers and councillors to discuss the proposals.

Four are being held in towns which are not affected.

But the council has since claimed the locations had to be 'booked before the exact details of the proposals were known', and some libraries would have been 'too small' for the number of people expected to attend.

Western Gazette, Wednesday 5th January 2011