Book up your ideas
Argh-hmm (clears throat). Plans to create a cultural centre at Exeter Central Library for the whole of the south west are to be applauded. But the whole of the south west is largely a rural society, so this move seems to ignore the deeper needs of the community.
That’s no surprise if you consider the library consultation process is largely based on non-verbal communication.
The county councillor in charge of ignoring public opinion, sorry, the “library improvements”, Cllr Sheila Hobden, is rather digging a hole for herself.
She told Devon Talk (the county’s own publication): ‘There is a clear desire among respondents to the Our Devon survey for improvments to the Devon Library Service, with 48 per cent supporting improvements and only seven per cent not wanting an improved service. Change must come.’
Like duhh!
Since when has improvements meant closing libraries? You know the ones, they are open for two hours a day, and then wonder why the numbers have dropped.
But then why worry about the rural community? The ‘joined up thinking’ is more to do with housing than addressing the needs of the people.
‘This is not about budget cuts,’ said Sheila. So, is it just about bloody mindedness, lack of imagination, or ploughing more funds into Exeter to support its bid for to become a unitary council?
Posted by Cptn
If you liked this story, you could buy us a coffeeMay 21st, 2006
