How to save libraries for the future

The spending axe is descending on local government and libraries are poised to close. Campaign groups have mapped probable closures. There’s no key as to what each colour and symbol indicate, but that’s rather beside the point.

In reality, the colossal waste in local government means that cuts can be implemented without damaging services. But councils play dirty when defending ‘their’ money, resorting to industrial action, unreliable bin collection and headline grabbing closures. Libraries fall into the latter category, and cherubic children will be hauled before cameras to cast the coalition in the most callous of roles.

Of course, learning must never be hindered, especially if Britain is to weather the Asian economic onslaught. But local government is not the arbiter of self-education, merely a source of provision. Libraries do not have to close, even if councillors say they must. There are alternatives. Many of Britain’s libraries date from the Victorian era, and they were built and maintained by public subscription.