Dear Madam, - I was saddened to read in the Impartial Reporter that the ‘temporary’ cuts in library opening hours in the county are likely to be increased and made permanent.
Libraries such as Enniskillen’s, which I visit regularly, are vital shared spaces in our too-often divided community. Enniskillen Library provides for a wide range of needs: toddlers becoming familiar with books and so laying the foundations for their formal education; unemployed people using computers to find work; school students doing homework; older people consulting newspapers and journals, as well as its traditional function of lending books.
In many cases the library offers facilities, space and peace which are not otherwise available to people living on small incomes or in limited accommodation.
Libraries NI has been put in a hugely difficult situation owing to the drastic slashing of its budget. I do not blame it for having to pass these cuts on locally, and appreciate the work that is being put into the public consultation. I would hope, however, that our MLAs would stand up in future for the well-run, efficient, warm and welcoming service that our libraries offer, and resist any further reduction in their quiet but vital work.
Yours faithfully Tanya Jones Fermanagh and South Tyrone Green Party
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