The council has pledged to continue making books available for users of a library that will close in seven weeks.

Richmond Council ruled out moving Heathfield library, in Percy Road, to a building at Heathfield Junior School, in Powder Mill Lane, because it will cost £400,000.

It said the transfer was “unaffordable” following its Government grant settlement last month, and is looking to find another community venue for an “access point” - open for between 12 and 18 hours a week - before the 50-year-old library shuts its doors on March 17.

Councillor Pamela Fleming, cabinet member for community development at Richmond Council, said she was negotiating with the NHS to find out whether it will have space in its new clinic, in Percy Road, which will replace the library.

She has also been looking at whether a community centre, a Methodist church hall or Twickenham Academy would have space.

She said: “The access point would provide a range of popular books for adults and children, including large-print and audio books.”

The authority has urged library users to respond to a public consultation, posted on its website, before February 23.

However, Richmond’s Liberal Democrat group has accused the council of failing to publicise the “crucial” survey, which it launched on January 18.

To respond to the consultation, visit richmond.gov.uk/home/leisure_and_culture/libraries/public_consultation_-_heathfield_library.htm.