Campaigners against a library's move to a more modern building are joining forces against the threat.

The newly formed Friends of Hove Library has already attracted widespread backing, including that of Hove-based writer and columnist Julie Burchill.

She said: "This is wonderful news. I cannot imagine anything more inclusive than a public library.

"Now, more than ever, books are vital to anybody with expectations of life - and of free expression."

The group has been created in the wake of plans to move the library in Church Road to the town hall.

A decision has been deferred while a Brighton and Hove City Council working group investigates how much it would cost to make the old building suitable for modern use.

Support for the Friends has also come from George Painter, author of an acclaimed biography of French novelist Marcel Proust.

Mr Painter, who was in charge of fifteenth-century printed books at the British Museum, said: "Books really can change one's life and for no cost. Proust's own life was transformed by discovering Ruskin's books."

The Friends' convenor is writer Christopher Hawtree, who campaigned for the library to be retained where it is.

He said: "I am delighted that hundreds of Hove residents recently wrote to tell party leaders how much they enjoy Hove library.

"Their voices made a great difference and the library campaign is bringing attention from many quarters."

Mr Hawtree hopes the Friends will eventually have a membership of 2,000.

He said: "People can be told of developments as the council continues with its deliberations, which, we trust, will be held in public.

"This is a way of promoting the library."

Those interested in registering to join the Friends should send a note of their name, address and, if possible, an e-mail address to 38 Westbourne Gardens, Hove BN3 5PP.