.svg)
A storm of controversy is brewing in Croydon after hundreds of books were found dumped on the pavement outside the former Broad Green Library. The incident, captured by local news outlet Inside Croydon, has been labeled "unacceptable" by Mayor Jason Perry and has reignited the public debate over the council's contentious library closure program.
The books were reportedly left in large, haphazard piles by contractors hired by the council to clear the building. Broad Green Library, which was closed late last year as part of Croydon Council's cost-cutting measures, is in the process of being transformed into an Asian Resource Centre.
Croydon Mayor Jason Perry was quick to apologize for the scene, vowing to hold the responsible contractors accountable. In a video statement on social media, he expressed his dismay, stating, "The way that these books were being treated was just unacceptable... For me, books are precious and they shouldn't be treated in that way."
The mayor also disclosed that squatters had been living in the building since its closure, having "sectioned off" the space into "bedrooms" and allegedly "rented out" to vulnerable individuals. He also pointed out a "kicked in" door and damaged masonry as evidence of the building's recent condition.
According to Perry, concerned residents have since collected some of the books and returned them to the building. He has also confirmed that the books will remain available for use when the new Asian Resource Centre opens. The center is expected to operate two days a week, a similar schedule to the library's previous hours.
This incident is the latest flashpoint in the ongoing saga surrounding the closure of four libraries in Croydon. The council's decision has faced significant criticism, with some residents previously telling BBC London that the library had been a "lifeline" for them. The council has defended the closures, with Mayor Perry previously citing low usage figures as the rationale for the decision. However, this claim has been challenged by critics who argue that the data used was flawed and didn't account for activities like studying, using Wi-Fi, or attending events.
The controversy highlights the persistent tension between the council's financial pressures and the community's desire to preserve vital local services. As the council continues its restructuring efforts, public scrutiny remains high.
