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I have a slight dichotomy about this - on one hand yes the local community library has a value as 'a real place in a virtual world' that is worth defending.
On the other hand the truth is that many small libraries have been left to deteriorate through lack of investment. The opening hours are too few and the staff at a minimum and with little 'professional' input. In some cases they should be closed, where communities have changed, moved or gone. The benefit of the venue (including its ICT and Book contents) is only demonstrated if it accessible (open times, disability, etc..)
Staff are the key , and often their vision of the library service is a 1950's (lots of lending fiction) not a local information and learning centre for the 21st Century. How we change and influence this is key to the future of all libraries.
Story
New library opened in rural community, - visiting Asst County Librarian asks library manger 'how's it going ?'
She says ' Oh fine.., only could you have that sign saying 'information centre' taken away because people keep coming in and asking questions'
Peter