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I have a small concern that library campaigns are becoming something of a growth industry and that by having so many we dissipate their effect. What we are trying to do with www.voicesforthelibrary.org.uk is provide a gateway into ALL the resources and campaigns out there. Not to take over, but to ensure that everyone can see what's being done to fight back. We also carry stories like those from Rebecca Front and the leader of Hull Council this week but our main aim is to bring together the growing number of "voices" (see what we did there?) speaking out against the disproportionate, and quality of life threatening, cuts being proposed by so many councils.
We were very pleased that Ian Anstice agreed to join with us last week and we hope to persuade others to join us very soon. We act as the portal to Ian's (and others) blogs, maps etc. No-one has to tow a party line, just tell us what you're doing - we'll give it maximum publicity.
It is, as Frances so rightly says, time to act - and time to act together.
Mick Fortune
m. +44 (0)7786 625544
From: lis-pub-libs: UK Public Libraries [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Frances Hendrix
Sent: 12 January 2011 11:37
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Onwards and Upwards?
it doesnt matter now is your chance!
11.01.11 | Benedicte Page
A Somerset library campaigner is proposing a national public inquiry in response to the widespread closures threatening the library service. Steve Ross said it seemed "sensible and cost effective" to focus nationally on the issue, as well as on specific local situations. Many local campaign groups, including Gloucestershire, Lewisham and Dorset, and Somerset itself are considering legal measures to oppose the cuts. He warned: "The trauma of the Government ignoring calls for inquiry in local areas would pull the country apart."
He said: "The suggestion for a national public library service inquiry is an invitation for central government to offer leadership and an innovative social response....The fear is we are on a short term dash towards cultural oblivion that will place a straitjacket on innovation and lifelong learning in many communities, at a time when the country needs to prepare to face up to the bigger challenges the world faces towards 2050."
Campaigner Desmond Clarke welcomed the campaign, saying he urged everyone to get involved.
Currently approaching 400 libraries are threatened with closure, according to website publiclibrariesnews.blogspot.com, with around half of councils still to announce their plans.
Steve Ross is calling for any supporters for the initiative to contact him at [log in to unmask].
Frances Hendrix
Martin House Farm, Hilltop Lane, Whittle le Woods, Chorley, Lancs PR6 7QR, UK
tel: 01257 274 833. fax: 01257 266 488
email: [log in to unmask]