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We have a library near us over which there are concerns it is to close. Resistance to that is already up and running. Mobile libraries are super and a very good and necessary service, but they can never fulfil all the functions of a static local library.
I've haunted libraries all my life, and consider them an essential service. I was a voracious reader when I was growing up, and in turn my three daughters used the library extensively, and all three still do. Our local library continues to be very good, with story times, parties, competitions and so on, to engage the young folk. Not everyone can access electronic books or even cheap books; this is especially the case with several members of my family who are on a very low income owing to their disabilities. For them the library is the only place they can get good access to books..
Both Simon and I use our local library and the library in Dover extensively for research, and not only on DWMP matters. Usually, too, when in the field researching, the local library will be one of our stops for information and honing what we seek. Local studies collections are wonderful and invaluable, and moreover there will be books on local topics unobtainable elsewhere. Usually, whatever the topic, it's possible through inter-library loans to obtain the book required, including the more specialized titles, which, on occasion, I've had to read in the library, not take home, as they are so precious to the originator.. There are also the DVDs, CDs, maps, directories, iaccess to the internet, the updated periodicals; the basic line is empowerment for all of us to access the the world of information. That's before we talk about the staff, who are knowledgable, patient, and do their best always to trace what one needs. So if anyone isn't familiar or comfortable with libraries, the staff are the first contact for help.
Then there is the community focus and liaison, with the dissemination of information onn clubs, societies, events, and often set-aside space for meetings and talks. Usually libraries have space for exhibitions too; the DWMP has run two major exhibitions in Dover library during 2010, and there's always something on display. Currently it's aviation, from the Hollingsbees previously displayed in Deal library. The DWMP also displayed Remembrance work done by St Martin's Primary School pupils; even the smallest library can encourage children with a space for display of their work. Our local library also displays the Book of Remembrance for the town, in a case bedecked with wreaths; the pages are turned regularly.
I'm not quite sure what we'd do without our libraries - and all this before I even begin to consider the superb work and services of our museums!