(no subject)

Last night marked the end of an era.  David Cameron's cuts have finally made their mark on the library, and our Writers' Group has decided to call it a day there.

It's not that they didn't offer us facilities.  But we were required to share the library space with other users, which meant doing readings which might potentially have adult content in an area where children might be present.  Another disadvantage was a change in hours - from 7-9 to 6-8 - which would have had an impact on those of us who are gainfully employed.

So from next week on, we'll be joining the Bohemian cafe set and taking up residence in a local watering hole, which I'd told has plenty of space where we can find a bit of peace and quiet on a weekday evening.  David Cameron would be very proud of us - from becoming spongers off the state, we are transforming ourselves into a group which has a positive impact on the local economy through our purchases of coffee, soft drinks, etc.  I have no objection to this, per se.  I don't mind doing my bit for saving money in during difficult economic times. 

What concerns me more is how the role of the library is being gradually eroded - I'll now be using it less, and while our group numbers just a few die-hards, it's just one of several which have now been rendered homeless as a result of the evening closures.  The loss of these groups will cut visitor numbers, which will then strength the argument for cutting funding in the long term.  And so on, and so on.  The vicious circle continues...

One thing's certain.  We're determined to keep on going with the group, even though our numbers have dwindled.  It's a good opportunity to meet up with like-minded friends, and a good incentive to keep writing.  And perhaps things won't be too bad: sipping coffee during a reading might have distinct advantages!!

(no subject)

Last night marked the end of an era.  David Cameron's cuts have finally made their mark on the library, and our Writers' Group has decided to call it a day there.

It's not that they didn't offer us facilities.  But we were required to share the library space with other users, which meant doing readings which might potentially have adult content in an area where children might be present.  Another disadvantage was a change in hours - from 7-9 to 6-8 - which would have had an impact on those of us who are gainfully employed.

So from next week on, we'll be joining the Bohemian cafe set and taking up residence in a local watering hole, which I'd told has plenty of space where we can find a bit of peace and quiet on a weekday evening.  David Cameron would be very proud of us - from becoming spongers off the state, we are transforming ourselves into a group which has a positive impact on the local economy through our purchases of coffee, soft drinks, etc.  I have no objection to this, per se.  I don't mind doing my bit for saving money in during difficult economic times. 

What concerns me more is how the role of the library is being gradually eroded - I'll now be using it less, and while our group numbers just a few die-hards, it's just one of several which have now been rendered homeless as a result of the evening closures.  The loss of these groups will cut visitor numbers, which will then strength the argument for cutting funding in the long term.  And so on, and so on.  The vicious circle continues...

One thing's certain.  We're determined to keep on going with the group, even though our numbers have dwindled.  It's a good opportunity to meet up with like-minded friends, and a good incentive to keep writing.  And perhaps things won't be too bad: sipping coffee during a reading might have distinct advantages!!