A Winchester man is to head a charity aimed at saving public libraries for future generations.

Desmond Clarke, 60, of Andover Road, has been elected chairman of Libri, set up four years ago by a group of enthusiasts dismayed at their dramatic decline.

Libri believe the public library service has important lessons to learn from the book trade, including providing people with the books they want to read.

Mr Clarke has over 30 years experience in the world of books in the UK and USA. He is recognised internationally as an expert on book distribution.

The father-of-three and grandfather-of-one, is a former director of the Book Marketing Council, non-executive director of Bertram Group, the leading library supplier and book wholesaler, president and chief executive of International Thomson Publishing Services Group and director of Faber and Faber.

Mr Clarke, who is also a director shareholder of Winchester's P & G Wells Bookshop, in College Street, said: "During the past three years, three very significant reports have been published assessing public libraries.

Each report has emphasised the urgent need for change and improvement, especially in rebuilding book stocks, extending opening hours, refurbishing buildings and implementing efficiencies.

"We look forward to monitoring the way library authorities at national and local levels have positively responded to these challenges."

Libri publishes an independent annual review of the public library service.

Previous reports include: "Who's In Charge" and "From University to Village Hall", which sparked a nationwide debate on the future of public libraries.

l County council chiefs played host to a delegation of library experts from Lithuania this week.

The 40-strong party from the Baltic nation was visiting Hampshire to learn about discovery centres, which aim to modernise library services.

One of the new centres is planned for Winchester, while another has already opened its doors in Gosport.

The overseas group was shown around the Gosport centre, and also toured the Hampshire Record Office in Sussex Street, Winchester.

County executive member for recreation and heritage, Margaret Snaith, said: "I hope our European counterparts enjoyed their visit to Winchester and Gosport.

"I am sure the knowledge and expertise we can share with them will be of great interest and benefit."