I see this morning that Barking libraries have now introduced a charging policy for use of the internet based on an annual subscription model. I queried this with the library and was told that the service will remain free for those under 20 and those over 60. As far as I am aware there are no further concessions offered.
I know a number of other services provide internet access on payment of a fee (it's certainly not a new idea), but I do wonder how many offer concessions for the unemployed? In the current climate, shouldn't libraries be supporting those who cannot afford the access the rest of us take for granted more than ever? Do any of the library authorities who do charge consider any support for those who are unemployed? Unemployment is sure to continue to grow for at least the foreseeable future and, as the regular ONS figures demonstrate, many people who do not have an internet connection at home are in that position because they simply cannot afford it (I suspect many in Barking). I know some will argue that the fees are minimal, but for many people such fees are not exactly an incentive. £12/£25 per year does not sound a lot, but some of us do not have the pressures that others also have to deal with.
I wholeheartedly agree with Phil Bradley's post on this matter http://bit.ly/OYOZfw. This sort of policy places barriers in the way of those that need the service the most, it hinders not helps, discourages rather than welcomes, it is simply wrong.
Ian Clark
Library Systems Officer,
Augustine House,
Canterbury Christ Church University
Email: [log in to unmask]
Tel. 01227 767700 ext 3141
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