Libraries are a lifeline

Praise where praise is due. It is heartening this week to learn of North Ayrshire’s pledge to keep all of its libraries open. The Arran library in Brodick is a lifeline to many and the mobile service is extremely important to other parts of the island.

But, we accept times have changed and that libraries have to change as well if they are to have a long-term future.

There was a time when a library ticket was your access to all knowledge. In the days before the internet, it was where you went for research and reading pleasure.

Many remember when they first introduced music, computer games and films to hire in libraries which was a revolution in its day.

These days with the internet, e-books, music streaming and all the rest, younger people may ask: Is there still a need for a library service? The answer has to be a resounding yes. For many, technology can never take the place of a good book, but libraries these days provide a whole host of other services such as a wide-range of digital resources, including the internet, which not everyone has at home. This is especially true in a community like Arran with an older population, others in short-term rented accommodation and regular visitors.

And, of course, there is the social side. A trip to the library for an older person can be an outing in itself and is a lot more personal that hitting a button to buy a 99p book.

On Arran, we are fortunate to have a team of helpful and resourceful staff keen to assist with any need or request they can help with.

But we appreciate savings have to be made, given the £357,000 budget cut, but library bosses have offered to listen to the public before they proceed with any action.

In Brodick, any changes will be minimal with the likely outcome only a slight change in opening hours.

However, if you value the service, it is worth getting involved in the consultation process, as it is the only way the council will know you care.