Shocking!

The BBC has this rather worrying (to me) story - Love it or lose it

'Public libraries are on the verge of extinction warn campaigners. How can they be protected for the future? Be honest - when did you last use your local library? Do you even know where it is? There is a chance you might find out too late and it'll have closed.'

Well, I returned a book last week and it's at the bottom of my street.

I use my local library fairly regularly, not least because I can't alwasy afford to maintain my reading habit with brand new books! There are certain authors - Pratchett, Rowling, Gaiman, the ones I know I will read over and over - whose books I will always buy brand new and often in hard back. But for untried authors, recommended books, or a random browse, I will happily frequent the library. Luckily, we have quite a reasonable sized one with a good selection. And thankfully it's not too full of romance novels and DVDs! ;o)

I have many memories of being taken to the library by my parents and grandparents. I'm sure those visits helped to cement my relationship with books. It would be a real shame to see libraries close but as with most things ...
... you don't know what you've got till it's gone.

Happy Reading.