The threat to authors and readers

Authors are getting cross. Generally a polite bunch, authors are alarmed at the ongoing, serious threats to libraries (which they continue to campaign against) and also the knock-on effect for the lowest-earning authors.

The Government is encouraging libraries to replace paid staff with volunteers. Such “community libraries” currently account for less than 1 per cent of British libraries but their numbers are increasing. The concept chimes with the Big Society philosophy and the need to make the most of shrinking budgets. However, there has been little advice or oversight from DCMS as councils rush to increase the use of volunteers. Authors; heavy users of libraries as well as ‘suppliers’, are concerned that these changes will lead to a worse and piecemeal library service rather than the ‘comprehensive and efficient’ service that councils are legally obliged to provide. Libraries need a broad, appropriate and balanced range of books, newspapers, magazines and reference works, sufficient funding to update, maintain and augment the stock and adequate staffing by suitably trained staff.