Sir, It is right that public libraries should keep their regulations regarding behaviour in libraries under review (report, Sept 19). Social norms change and public libraries have to reach out to all parts of their local community. It is important that there are no artificial barriers restricting use, although inevitably, as requirements will differ between various groups, trade-offs and compromises will be necessary.

However, to misquote a well-known advertising slogan, public libraries are much more than an “ace caff with a library attached”. Those of your readers who have not visited their local public library recently should do so. They will be assured of a warm welcome and see a service that still provides books but also access to knowledge in a range of other media and formats, including the internet. They may also get a glimpse of the passion for reading that underpins the public library service with reading groups in virtually every branch library and hundreds of thousands of children participating in events such as the Summer Reading Challenge or shadowing the Carnegie book award.

In addition they should notice the library as a hub of the community through its notices, meetings, events and opportunities for conversation and perhaps observe the Homework Club taking place in the evening or the animated discussions as teenagers and young adults discuss the design of their space in the library or the stock they would like to see on the shelves. And of course so much of the public library now takes place beyond its walls, whether through virtual inquiry services or the home library service for those unable to visit.

This is not to suggest that all in the public library world is rosy. The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) recently commissioned an investigation into a number of public library authorities that were restructuring their services in ways that might lead to a reduction in the quality of service. The conclusions of this investigation noted the absence of an effective regulatory framework for public libraries in England and questioned whether the skills mix available within the service was properly balanced. This did raise concerns that some users would not be receiving the professional level of service they were entitled to.

The Conway report has now been published and is available on our website (www.cilip.org.uk). We will be working closely with government, local government and others to address the problems highlighted in it. The encouraging point is that there is still a very large public that cares passionately about their local library service.

Caroline Moss-Gibbons

Leader of Council, CILIP

Sir, The reported “diversify or die” approach to our public libraries suggests that there is a real crisis of leadership among those responsible for managing our libraries. In fact, about a third of our library authorities increased book lending in the last reported financial year.

The Society of Chief Librarians should focus on improving book stocks and other resources, including online access, extending opening hours, eradicating inefficiency and providing a much improved service to every community.

Desmond Clarke

Bishopstone, East Sussex

Sir, Bath Central Library, in its attempt to make libraries more people-friendly, held a wrestling match. Its relevance continues to elude me.

Cyril Davies

Bath

Explore Letters

• Feedback