THREE Southampton libraries at threat of closure are to share a pot of cash worth thousands to help keep them open.

British Gas has pledged to give £25,000 to support the running costs of the Thornhill, Millbrook or Weston libraries.

The cash comes as the energy firm works with the council to transform around 1,500 homes across the city.

Civic chiefs are imploring organisations or partnerships to come forward to take on the running of one of these three community hubs plus Burgess Road and Cobbett Road libraries for anywhere between five and 24 years.

Southampton City Councillor Warwick Payne, deputy leader of the ruling Labour party, said the cash was a “wonderful cherry”

on top of the work that the two organisations had already done.

He said: “The council and British Gas have a very good working relationship and the company’s offer to help with the libraries on three of our estates underlines that positive relationship.”

Ed Stilliard Protesters against the proposed closure of some of Southampton’s libraries before the cabinet meeting of Southampton City Council at the Civic Centre last month.

City Councillor Satvir Kaur, cabinet member for communities, culture and leisure gave a “huge thank you to British Gas for their very generous offer”.

She added: “Southampton will continue to have an efficient and effective library service in the city with six fully funded libraries across the city.

“I remain confident that the five remaining libraries will continue to serve their communities as community led libraries.

I urge interested community groups, volunteers, not-for-profit and faith organisations to contact us for an information pack which tells them everything they need to know at this stage and what they need to do next.

“I and my team are happy to meet with any interested groups to help explain the process and answer any questions.”

The council is providing a community package to support organisations allowing them to retain the books, furniture and equipment in the library, offer computer sessions using the council’s IT software, sublet space and receive training, guidance and support from a council employee.

Interested organisations are urged to request an information pack,seek legal advice and explore partnerships with other organisations.

David Young, managing director of British Gas energy efficiency, said: “We’re really pleased to offer this funding for library services in Southampton.

It’s part of our commitment to support communities across the city, as we begin our joint project with the council to make around 1,500 homes warmer and more energy efficient.”

Interested organisations have until Monday October 19 to formally express an initial interest and request an information pack. A question and answer session is due on Wednesday October 7 for any interested organisations.

This session is by invitation only.

To attend and register interest in the scheme, email community.libraries@southampton.gov.uk.