HUNDREDS have hit the web in an attempt to influence the future of Cumbria’s threatened libraries.

More than 2,000 people have visited Cumbria County Council’s website to comment on its ‘modernisation’ ideas, which include the potential closure of 18 of the area’s 48 libraries.

Next month, public meetings will be held in all libraries across the county to explain proposals and gauge public opinion.

The council has said its “big idea” is to strengthen main town libraries with new services, while supporting alternative facilities across the rest of the county.

One option suggested by councillors has been to close several rural libraries and replace them with Library Links — book delivery points in community centres or local shops.

While residents continue to comment online, several in Askam-in-Furness have set up a petition to try to convince councillors their library should remain open.

Cumbria County Council denied its review was driven by potential financial savings in the £6m library budget.

The Time For Change? consultation will run until June 30, when a formal review will begin.

To have your say, visit cumbriacc.ning.com. Alternatively, the public can comment in their library, community centre or village hall.