Political price to pay for library closure plan

Regarding library closures (Advertiser, June 8 and 15), I’d like to mention how benefical these are.

Our communities are under threat from austerity cuts across the board and libraries are just one area under threat.

My community library, Old Monkland, is facing the same fate as Petersburn as well as others outwith Monklands.

I am appalled that the original public consultation period deadline was June 13, later extended to June 20. Our library is closing in August and this decision was pushed forward from the deadline of October. Is the logic to prevent our community from having a lengthy campaign to save our library?

I have used Old Monkland Library since I was seven years old and my two daughters were also fortunate to do so. Both went on to further education and my eldest daughter set up her own podiatry business in Coatbridge.

I have used my local library on numerous occasions. On one particular occasion my home computer packed up when important exams loomed as a mature student. Old Monkland Library was my first port of call and through dedicated staff I was able to use their computers, sail through those exams and gain a degree.

Pupils from five local schools – St Timothy’s, Kirkshaws, Langloan, Old Monkland and St Monica’s – use the facilities for homework study and staff accompany the children on visits.

It isn’t just the schools who use it but mums with younger children, as they read and engage with Bookbug storytelling sessions. From an early age children need stimulation and Bookbug enables them to learn from the written word, which is important for their development.

The library staff work with children during school holidays for fun days which involve craft and book events.

It isn’t just children who use this building but the older community too. It’s a lifeline for them as often older people feel isolated but they are welcomed here. Children need to have role models and whenever both generations come together in this facility it’s lovely to see.

There aren’t many facilities close to the excellence of Old Monkland library, as it is a vibrant environment for young and old alike. Having a library such as this on our doorstep is beneficial to children if they do go on to further education.

Why should children be deprived of libraries, particularly when they are first-class facilities?

Council elections are next on the political calendar in 2017 but in the present climate the Labour party is struggling to survive. It’s the older generation who make up the votes in the ballot boxes. They will remember the library closures and how they vote will reflect this.