Calls have been made for local businesses to share space with one of three libraries as part of new library plans.

An open day for businesses to consider sharing a space with Bullsmoor, Enfield Island Village and Ponders End libraries will take place next week at the Dugdale Centre, in London Road, Enfield.

Under new plans approved last month, the council will keep all 17 libraries open, the highest of any London borough, but make 11 of them ‘community libraries’, sharing premises with other services.

Mobile libraries had more than 5,000 visits during 2014, with 83 active adult users at the cost of £70,000 a year.

Councillor Ayfer Orhan, cabinet member for education, children’s services, protection and libraries, said: “As part of our library strategy we can offer additional services to the public by working in the same building with other organisations. It’s an exciting development that can support our communities offering additional services in these neighbourhoods.”

The local authority is hoping possible partners will provide valuable community services which support the council’s aims.

Cllr Orhan added: “I am looking forward to meeting organisations from our voluntary and community sector at the open day so that we can take our plans forward and build some strong partnerships through this shared initiative.”