Following the damage to Spellow Hub Library in Liverpool, which was burnt out and looted during the weekend's violent disorder, our President Ed Jewell has issued the following statement.

"It is absolutely sickening to see a public library destroyed by rioters. Like libraries across the country, Spellow Hub Library offered support, hope and sanctuary to the local community. As well providing free access to books and information, it hosted training and skills programmes for the long term unemployed, family activities, wellbeing events and a food bank. Now all this is in jeopardy. We have offered our full support to library staff and will help in any way we can to get their vital services up and running again."

"It has been incredibly heartening to see the library’s staff, volunteers and local people working together to clean up the damage and restore the library for the community. We have also seen remarkable generosity as people crowdfund for new books and equipment – many of whom have no connection to the library, or to Liverpool. This just demonstrates how important public libraries are, the difference they make to people’s lives and the affection in which they are held."

"Public libraries are particularly vulnerable during this kind of disorder as they are often in prominent locations and are, rightly, easily accessible. Yet they are also symbolic of community safety and cohesion – open and free civic spaces where everyone is welcome. We will be working with our members to ensure they have the support and advice they need to protect their buildings, staff and users."