Farewell to our libraries
Published: 29 April, 2010
• MIKE Clarke, Camden’s head of library customer services, accuses the New Journal of “inaccuracies” (Letters, April 22), but what about “the hub of the troubles”, that is, (the) installation of self-service machines, so one doesn’t have contact with a live human being?
On a recent visit to Swiss Cottage library there were hardly any familiar faces to be seen; those who remain don’t know if they will still be there next week. There were hardly any periodicals, and the cafe is shut, as it is not worth opening.
Since returning to London some 12 years ago I have been going to the library at least once a week, but this time will be my last visit. I stood outside the main doors for a moment in a silent farewell for a vanished era.
EILEEN EARNSHAW
Oriel Place,
NW3
Comments
Libraries
Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 2010-04-29 23:12.Alas so true. Last week I looked at the comments book at Holborn Library and alas from so many users there were such strong critical comments. I cannot remember seening a positive comment. It is not just about self issue methods it is much more about the total lack of interest and consideration of users by those who head the service. There seems the blind belief that self issue is all that is needed to provide a service rather than books, information and a quality service provided by enthusiastic staff. In fact it looks like every attempt has been made to move aall the staff to other locaations so they are not able to offer the local knowledge they have built up. Camden often carries out surveys of how the public view its service and publishes them. Libraries have always scored very highly. I suspect the next survey will see the ratings plummet and will the Head of Library Service accept the blame for this or will he have got another job by then on the basis of "excellent achievements in Camden"
Malcolm Holmes
45 Oxhey Avenue
Watford
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