STRIKES by library staff led to 11 out of 13 in Greenwich borough being closed over the weekend, unionists claim.

The Unite union is dismayed at the council's decision to transfer the library service to Greenwich Leisure Ltd (GLL), saying staff will have their contracts changed by the trust.

They have also raised concern that the Ferrier estate library is being closed without any replacement.

Unite regional officer Onay Kasab said: "Our members have led the way in exposing GLL.

"They are not worker led - they are a private company swallowing up public services."

A protest march is planned for May 5, leaving Eltham library at noon and heading to Woolwich library.

A spokesman for Greenwich Council said all the libraries were back open today.