Before you begin to read this post, please understand that what I’m suggesting is not how I would like things to be. A library should be a free, public resource that is open to all. However, with the current round of cuts threatening to close many branches, I’d like to propose a possible way forward…
Would you visit your local library if it was sponsored by Tesco? How about if the shelves of travel books were renamed the Thomas Cook Travel Section? Like many people, I’d feel uneasy about libraries adopting corporate sponsorship – although I can’t for the life of me explain why that is.
Libraries are under threat. The government is looking to make sweeping cuts to public services and, not considered to be essential by many local councils, libraries are taking a big hit. So, why shouldn’t the private sector get involved? If you had a choice of no library at all, or an Asda.com Library with green shelf fronts and the occasional logo or latest supermarket offer – which would you choose? Would it really make a difference if you borrowed a book for your child to read and it had an Early Learning Centre sticker on the cover? Surely the content would remain exactly the same.
Plus, as well as a much needed injection of cash, libraries sponsored by corporate giants could have coffee stands, give you money off your shopping for every 10 books you borrow, and even have a little shop in the corner so you could pick up a pint of milk along with your bodice-ripper. In a hurry? Drop your books off at the customer services desk next time you shop.
Would that really be so bad?
Of course, we’d also need to look at what’s in it for the private companies. There’s advertising, of course – plus a potential increase in sales and being seen to be giving something back to the local community. After all, which big business wouldn’t want to be known as the organisation that saved British libraries?
Among the pitfalls to watch out for would be the new library sponsors having a say in which books are stocked and what events are held – although keeping experienced librarians on in their posts would obviously help on that front. But, do you want your books checked in and out by someone wearing an orange, Sainsbury’s branded fleece?
I’m not saying the idea is perfect but, if it keeps your local library open, isn’t it worth considering? I look forward to reading your comments.
Tommy
