From the North Wales Weekly News Editorial Comment Column:

CONWY County Council must think we are all daft if it expects us to accept that closing six libraries is in some way improving the library service.

Anyone gullible enough to swallow that has obviously been deprived of the learning opportunities that our libraries so willingly provide.

They are a fount of information and knowledge. For decades the books they contain have been offering a cheap and convenient way of opening up new worlds to eager minds.

Although many users give a churlish welcome to the banks of computers they now boast, there is little doubt that providing internet access to those who do not have or cannot afford the necessary equipment and links gives them an even more pivotal role in our communities.

What is being suggested is that libraries in Llandudno Junction, Deganwy, Llanfairfechan, Penrhyn Bay, Llangernyw and Cerrigydrudion be axed as part of a streamlining operation.

Money saved - or some of it at least -would then be invested in the county's bigger libraries at Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Convey, Penmaenmawr and Llanrwst.

Fine if you happen to live in one of our bigger towns, but not for those whose homes are well away from their boundaries.

Needless to say this backward and ill-advised proposal is being opposed by councillors in the targeted communities and it is to be hoped that they will be supported by their county colleagues.

Closure of libraries is not something that should be readily contemplated by any civilised and educated society so we the paying public have an important part to play too.

We must all do what we can to ensure that those responsible for deciding the future of our library service are prevented from depriving parts of the county of such a vital resource.


Source: North Wales Weekly News, Thursday 10 May 2007 [web site]