Remodel library systems

THE article “Libraries face cuts over lack of finance” (DD, December 30 2016) refers:

After reading this article, I was fraught with mixed emotions – on one hand, to wonder how Buffalo City Metro (BCM) could be narrowing the doors of knowledge and learning in a fast-growing metropolis, but on the other hand, to appraise the current situation and to ponder the future of libraries in the 21st century.

There is no doubt that a library is an essential part of a community, but their modern-day potential, up until this stage, has been scarcely explored.

In an age where information and communication have become such crucial elements of our culture, we have neglected to remodel our library systems to offer all citizens the access to rich learning opportunities.

Instead of cutting back on library resources, I would like to advise BCM to reconsider how a renewed investment in these institutions could positively impact growing societies on so many levels: libraries could be designated internet hotspots for students (a drawcard for youth, especially those who have limited or no access); they could be equipped to host conferences, meetings/talks, and to showcase readings and literacy workshops within the community.

Libraries could also help inform local communities about water management, crop-growing strategies and nature conservation by accommodating their own prototypes for citizens to observe and possibly even help maintain.

BCM could start with a designated website for its libraries and draw upon further support from the many citizens who equally care about keeping these age-old centres alive and flourishing.

These are a few urgings which I hope will help inspire and encourage BCM to not only avoid library cutbacks, but to engage in a renewed vision for the future of our metro’s libraries. — Kyle Knickelbein, East London