In June 2017, South Tyneside Council initiated a consultation aimed at reorganising library services within the region. The council offered the four branch libraries to the community to manage at no cost. If no suitable organisation emerged to take over, the libraries were slated for closure at the end of December 2017. The proposal included a community asset transfer for any interested organisation, with the potential for adjustments to library services based on the needs of the managing group.
In response, local residents launched a campaign to save Whitburn Library, collecting 1,249 signatures on a petition directed at the council, urging them to avert the library’s closure. The campaign garnered significant community support, including endorsements from Simon Grundy of SunFM, the Whitburn Neighbourhood Forum, and the Whitburn Residents Association. Notable authors such as Hamish McBain and Sheila Quigley also offered their support and assisted in connecting with other community libraries. Children's author-illustrators Ciara Flood and Layn Marlow played a critical role in the early phases of the campaign.
A handwritten letter from Julia Donaldson CBE, the Children's Laureate from 2011 to 2013 and famous for her book "The Gruffalo," further encouraged the campaign. In her letter, she acknowledged the potential benefits of "hubs" but argued that they should not replace smaller local libraries. She also stated that a community-run service should only serve as a temporary solution until more sustainable funding could be secured.
Inspired by the children's book "You Can Do It, Sam" by Amy Hest, supporters of the campaign baked cakes delivered to local councillors in South Tyneside, accompanied by messages advocating for the preservation of Whitburn Library during a Community Area Forum meeting.
As the consultation progressed, it became increasingly unlikely that the library would close, though it was set to be managed by an organisation that might not fully align with community interests. In August 2017, the charity 'Friends of Whitburn Library' was established, focusing on developing a viable proposal for South Tyneside Council. This proposal aimed to demonstrate that their approach was the most beneficial for the library's future and the community.
Ultimately, the 'Friends of Whitburn Library' was one of two expressions of interest received regarding the library. Their charitable status, commitment to delivering a comprehensive library service, and dedication to promoting the heritage of Whitburn were significant factors in their selection as the preferred option for managing the library.