Some of Britain’s most famous authors came out in support of libraries earmarked for closure yesterday as the country celebrated World Book Day.

Popular writers including Jackie Collins, Ian Rankin and beloved children’s author Michael Rosen signed a letter slamming London’s Lambeth Council after it decided to shut half of its libraries.

Award-winning novelist Alex Wheatle told the Star he was supporting the Save Lambeth Libraries campaign as “libraries are the last great equaliser of education.”

The East of Acre Lane author added: “Libraries are the only public facility where you can read for free what the great and good have studied and you’re not even obliged to buy a coffee.”

Save Lambeth Libraries campaign was founded by librarians and local community members in February in an attempt to revert the council’s decision.

Brixton library Unison rep Ruth Cashman said: “There is growing opposition across the borough to the cuts.

“In 2012 Sally Prentis, then cabinet member for culture, promised: ‘We will not be closing any libraries, outsourcing the service to private companies or handing over the buildings to volunteers.’

“In a scandalous retreat the council is now proposing all three.”

The statement, also supported by Irvine Welsh, Alan Gibbons, Paul Mason and another 41 authors, said that “libraries change lives.”

“Threatening half the borough’s libraries with closure is a short-sighted and irresponsible plan. Public libraries are an essential part of a functioning literate nation.”

“This is an act of vandalism against the community, signalling the death of hope that anything can get better.”

The campaign’s first public meeting will take place on March 11 with Mr Wheatle as special guest.