Since 2010 over 270 public libraries have closed, according to the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy.
More than 3000 professional library staff have lost their jobs, while in 2013 there was an increase of 44.5 per cent in the number of library volunteers.
Earlier this year, faced with making £1.6 million in cuts to its library service, Sheffield City Council passed control of 11 of its public libraries to community volunteers. What happens if one day the volunteers run out?
I suppose this is what David Cameron, the Prime Minister, meant when he invented the term ‘The Big Society?’, job losses!
How are we to view these volunteers?
Good people who are trying to save the public libraries or scabs who are destroying jobs?
Steve Nibbs Milton Road Swindon
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