the library v. the internet - Page 3

ossylass · 27-04-2009, 22:42

I was a librarian in the Ossy, Church, Gt. Harwood and Rishton libraries back in the '60's when they were well-stocked. Now, Accrington library has a pathetic excuse for a Childrens' section, and I've heard that Ossy childrens' library is moving into the smaller reference/reading room - to make more space for computers. I'm sure that children have access to computers at home and school. Andrew Carnegie who established Ossy library and many others must be spinning in his grave!

shillelagh · 28-04-2009, 10:26

This review of the library services has been going on for the last couple of years. There are librarians who have had to reapply for their jobs and there are others who have left the library service altogether.

Gayle · 28-04-2009, 11:27

I know people are bemoaning the changes to the ossy library but at least we're keeping a library. Lots of others were shut not that long ago. So ours might have a bigger internet room than before but at least it's still there.

cashman · 28-04-2009, 15:02

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gayle

I know people are bemoaning the changes to the ossy library but at least we're keeping a library. Lots of others were shut not that long ago. So ours might have a bigger internet room than before but at least it's still there.

so is it ok to run em down, regarding "Books" so long as they remain open? I Think Not.

Lilly · 28-04-2009, 15:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gayle

I know people are bemoaning the changes to the ossy library but at least we're keeping a library. Lots of others were shut not that long ago. So ours might have a bigger internet room than before but at least it's still there.

I know what you're saying, Gayle and I am very greatful for our library.

I use it lots.

I appreciate that we have to move with the times but I still think the priority of a library should be books.......never mind making the space for books smaller and smaller to make way for computers.

I think there was an adequate number of computers before. We don't need more.

I'll reserve judgement on Ossy library until it re-opens but I will be disappointed if the children's section is smaller and the computer area bigger.

It's common knowledge that children are not reading anywhere near as much as they used to but it is getting harder and harder for them to do so when books are not promoted and play second fiddle to computers.

churchman phil · 29-04-2009, 11:42

Heard this morning that the bulk part of what is now the reference library will become the main area for Local History (LH). There is apparently loads and loads of new stuff in storage which will be coming in to LH section once catalogued. This change has come about because the current LH section is in urgent need of renovation and it was thought that things could become damaged if left there any longer.
In brief. There will still be a downscaled reference section but a larger LH section with the current LH room being closed.

What would you lose if there had to be a choice??

cashman · 29-04-2009, 14:45

you would lose the choice phil, whilst i love local history, i would imagine the majority of library users don't. reference therefore i feel should have the greater priority. IMHO