Thanks to Evelyn for this latest update from Friends of Ventnor Library. Ed
Friends of Ventnor Library met on 19th August to discuss the fragile situation of our library and several others on the Island.
The threat by the Isle of Wight Council to diminish the quality and provision of the service of libraries has been hanging over us for some time now. Their approach is that we can ‘make do’ with fewer opening hours, one qualified member of staff and volunteers.
Thankfully, we have outstanding support from Ventnor Town Council, ready to help, but they do not have the final say.
Scotland leading the way
By comparison, in the news on Tuesday (25th August), Scotland declares there will be library cards given to children either at birth or at age three or four. Pilot projects are being developed in every council area to enrol children.
What could be more encouraging and what could be a better way of promoting literacy.
To quote Scotland’s First Minister,
“Our libraries are often the hub of the local community – providing vital access to information and resources that people would otherwise not have.”
Libraries are not a luxury
Ventnor has areas of deprivation and child poverty that have been exposed by the recent report published in the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment.
That alone should trigger the Isle of Wight Council to reconsider its approach to the need for well run, fully staffed and adequately funded libraries.
Libraries are not a luxury they are an essential part of a child’s development.
