Saving Public Libraries

Today I learnt what can still be done to save public libraries from closure.

Today was the day campaigners lost their High Court bid to stop Brent Council closing half of its public libraries. This is bad news for Brent, but also for other campaigners across the UK who saw this as a test case.

Of course public libraries don't have a God given right to exist. But if - like me - you believe they are still relevant in today's society (perhaps more so than ever), offer valuable services - especially to those in deprived areas, who can't afford books or internet access - and that visiting the local library instills a love of reading and learning in children, you might be wondering what you can do to stop their closure.

CILIP and Voices for the Library both give guidance, links are given below. The main thing to do is to USE YOUR LIBRARY if you want to keep it open, spread the word to all who will listen, and write to your MP.

CILIP
http://www.cilip.org.uk/get-involved/advocacy/public-libraries/pages/getinvolved.aspx

Voices for the Library
http://www.voicesforthelibrary.org.uk/wordpress/?page_id=1331