A SOMERSET library run entirely by volunteers is set to close unless it raises £5,000.

The Library of Avalon in Glastonbury holds fundraising symposia, lectures, groups and talks to raise £7,000 to cover rent and insurance.

But the events have not been possible this year due to the coronavirus crisis, leaving the library short of funds.

Richard Newman, trustee for the Library of Avalon Charity and acting secretary, set up an appeal on Facebook to raise £5,000 needed to keep the library open until the spring.

“The library of Avalon started in the 80's as a cardboard box of books,” he said.

“In 1988, a charity association was founded by a group of locals including Geoffrey Ashe MBE FRSL, the renowned author, who wished to promote the introduction of British mythology into mainstream education curriculum.

“Over 32 years it has grown and developed from a box of books to an extraordinary collection of esoteric subjects from alchemy and Arthurian legend to yoga and Zen.

“Donations and acquisitions totalling 17,000 books as well as thousands of pamphlets, rare magazines and some original manuscripts have built this into a unique resource for the Glastonbury community.”

Libraries are excluded from being eligible for The Arts Council Covid-19 grant and as an independent charity, The Library of Avalon receives no Government funding.

The library is housed in an ancient courtyard by the Abbey wall.

Access to books and the reading room is not possible at the moment, but membership and book loans for members is still ongoing.

To donate visit www.facebook.com/donate/747904406050762/10220484591879272/