LIBRARY U-TURN FINE, COUNCIL ATTITUDE NOT

THE reversal of a decision by City of Greater Geelong regarding the closure of libraries is an encouraging application of the social democratic influence of people power being effective, albeit a temporary “lifeline”.

Well done to the communities who have showed caring, knowledge and need beyond the comprehension of appointed leaders.

Did we hear a mea culpa at the council meeting? Did the appointees apologise for getting it totally wrong? No. Heck I was taught as a child that a confession mitigated the damage.

We got the justification of we did the right thing. Dr Alexander used the term honesty numerous times in describing the decision-making processes they followed.

It is a pity it wasn’t used in the context of “honestly we stuffed it up”, instead of the “we were acting in an open manner and telling the truth”. Said truth’s usefulness, in hindsight, is evident to the community who applied the true rule of common sense.

Most admire the appearance of the new library but how many have access to it? My mother can’t park and use it.

In speaking with the architect, Wayne Sanderson, I was told users should catch the train. How on earth will she carry six library books and walk from the station?

Community libraries are needed, almost $10 million a year for libraries and we have to close them, progress and economic efficiency destroying the building blocks of community. Ross Kroger, Highton