FAILING libraries could become not-for-profit companies, under an idea being considered by Boris Johnson.

One proposal put forward by the London Councils, a lobbying group for the capital's local authorities, is to create a trust to run libraries that could apply for charitable status.

The idea would not save libraries already due to be closed by council budget cuts, such as six in Brent that include the popular Preston Road centre.

The proposal is part of a the wider London Library Change Programme which is trying to find efficiency savings and encourage more integration across boroughs.

Speaking to the Harrow Times, Mr Johnson said: “I love libraries and I want to keep the libraries we have.

“We are looking at starting up a trust that could protect libraries and I know this is something that the London Councils have been looking at.

“But closing libraries is down to local authorities and it's proving hard to change their minds.”

The Mayor's comments come just days after Brent Council voted to close six libraries in the borough despite a massive campaign by residents to stop the cuts, which included a lively protest outside the Town Hall.