ORGANISATIONS can now formally bid to run one of the library buildings which are due to close.

Bury Council is inviting organisations, charities and not-for-profit groups to formally apply to take over the running of the buildings.

To apply to run a community asset you will need to submit a formal expression of interest and a business plan.

Expressions of interest need to be submitted before Monday, October 2 and business plans before Friday, November 17.

A guide is available online and at libraries to help with finding funding, applying for charitable status and finding volunteers.

Following a successful business plan, the council will draw up appropriate contracts with a view to assets being given to community groups by the end of this calendar year.

The libraries which you can apply to run are:

• Coronation Road Community Centre and Library

• Dumers Lane community Centre and Library

• Topping Fold Community Centre and Library

Tottington Library

• Unsworth Library

• Whitefield Library and Adult Learning Centre

To discuss and get help with the application process, call David Thomas in the Neighbourhood Engagement Team on 0161 253 7455 or email NeighbourhoodEngagement@bury.gov.uk.