Author’s plea to boost libraries (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Author’s plea to boost libraries

9:30pm Wednesday 22nd October 2008 in

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Inspectors could be brought back into libraries to ensure a wide-range of books are offered, after a call by Ilkley’s famous Postman Pat author.

Writer and former librarian John Cunliffe wants Culture Secretary Andy Burnham to bring back the system of inspectors for libraries to ensure they comply with requirements.

Mr Cunliffe said: “In Bradford librarians no longer select their stock. They leave it to booksellers to supply what they think fit.

“If a reader requests a book outside the bookseller’s ken, it may well be bought but the reader will have to pay £1 for the privilege of doing the work that librarians should be doing. The result is an ad-hoc collection of books which can barely be dignified with the name library.”

He said librarians would struggle to advise people on their selection if they had not selected the books. Mr Cunliffe became aware of the £1 charge after speaking with a library manager.

He said: “I queried the charge if you request a new book as it does not fit in with the Library Act.

“I am a serious reader and I like to keep up with new books. I was a librarian for many years and have seen it from all sides of the counter and am appalled librarians no longer seem to choose the books.”

Speaking to the Telegraph & Argus, Mr Burnham said he would consider whether inspectors should be rolled out.

He said: “I am very pleased the debate has started around libraries, a lot of people use them and I think it is a really good thing there is a public debate. We have a really serious review under way. John’s views can feed into that review. In general terms, I am glad people are beginning to talk, from my point of view public libraries are the backbone of our culture, access to entertainment and literature and should be cherished.

“It is a good suggestion and I will think about it.”

Mr Cunliffe welcomed the promise saying: “I am really pleased he will look to see if something can be done, it will be of great benefit.”

Brian Hayton, Bradford Council’s Assistant Director for Cultural Services, said: “We supply a wide range of books to ensure that there is a selection of books for as many interests as possible and we always welcome customer feedback and requests.”