We'll talk about topics of the day that involve writing and I'll give some hints and tips about stuff to do. I'm hoping to start posting some original stories that are languishing in file folders where nobody can see them, and have people you might know and like drop by to chat too!
Today's topic is an extension of something I've been chatting about on Twitter today.
Today Wikipedia has shuttered to protest #SOPA and a comment was made that a user wished there was an alternative to Wiki, because so many libraries are closed. I hadn't heard that apparently, the austerity measures in the UK have resulted in slashing of funding for libraries in the United Kingdom and they're closing left and right. In Ireland, the Library Council has been disbanded and their libraries are threatened too. The (to me, ridiculous) reason is that "we have the internet, we don't need libraries."
Not need libraries!? Say that again? Libraries should be the heart and soul of a town or city. They should be partners with the internet, inseparable and yet unique.
I think one of the problems is that they're often underfunded (so antiquated as far as technology) and people seem to forget they're there in the rush of today's busy life. Even for myself, I know I don't visit as often as I'd like. But they can and should be vital. They can and should be useful.
But it takes wanting it. Authors, readers, general citizens, have to be interested enough to take a stand. Even if you only buy books, or only write books, libraries keep you in touch with things not in the book store. Classics, reference material, magazines. All are fodder for future books. All are valuable.
What do YOU think? Are libraries part of the past, or tickets to the future? Let me know!
"we have the internet, we don't need libraries."
ReplyDeleteWell that's not actually the reason, that was me being flippant about modern attitudes to information and information management.
It's all tied into austerity measures and government policies, the combination of belt tightening and enforced privitisation that is happening throughout Europe. Governments will always look for what appear to be the easiest cuts first. Luckily many people are making a stand, opposing closures and getting involved to insure their local libraries continue to be there for everyone.
But it just goes to show we can't take anything for granted.
I think one issue that really needs to be looked at as the world moves toward austerity as a whole--is that SOME things must remain as a service to the public. Too many hands out, I understand. Perhaps we need to move toward combination of public/private funds? I know for our own library, they can only accept items, not money, because it's publically funded. That seems strange. If people WANT to donate, shouldn't they be able to?
ReplyDelete