Big cuts in spending are forcing councils to re-examine how libraries work
OF ALL the cuts to public services, few have provoked such loud protests as proposals to close libraries. Petitions, vigils and the gnashing of teeth (especially those of Philip Pullman, a fantasy author) have been followed by legal challenges. On November 16th a judge in London ruled against plans to close 21 libraries in Gloucestershire and Somerset. Campaigners in Brent, in north-west London, have taken their fight against closures to the Court of Appeal. And, on November 24th, a select committee of MPs announced an inquiry into library closures.
