Sunday 11 July 2010
Using Kensal Rise Library
I occasionally get asked about why Kensal Rise Library isn't better used, and part of the answer is the layoutt. The upper storey is currently used for storage, and probably underused at that. Unfortunately, making it public access is difficult as the existing format has access only through a narrow, steep staircase. Building alterations are very difficult because it is a listed building. And, unlike that other Brent building associatied with Mark Twain (Dollis Hill House), it is genuinely attractive. The question is, can a better use be found for the upper storey without violating health and safety regulations (and the DDA come to that)?
4 comments:
Actually the main reason is it's always closed.
Friends of mine in the area are always looking for more spaces for community work such as holding yoga classes. Could it be be hired out for this type of thing? Maybe that would also assist with resisting the potential closure of the library.
Who asks occasionally? Is this just another bit of spin in preparation for the closure of Kensal Rise Library?
The current space doesn't use the upper floor(s) - correct - so it is an absolute disgrace to site this as a disability accessability/health & safety issue to use as a reason for closure. Not being able to add additional space is not a reason to close the existing space.
Another closure reason being spouted is lack of use, which is being measured by the number of books borrowed - more spin. The library is a community space which is not just about the books - there is internet access, a homework club, story sessions, drawing/colouring etc. (There used to be more events, but I have noticed these have been wound down).
We visit at least once a week, sometimes twice, but rarely borrow books - we sometimes do homework, my children like to read books in the library, play on the computers & colour.
It is a happy, colourful community space that my children enjoy.
I went to the library today on the way back from school as I regularly do and it was humming. Groups of children crowding around the computers in the children's library. More children at the tables, on the easy chairs, on the floor. Groups of Mums chatting - mostly concerned about the rumoured closure of the library. More adults in the rest of the library - all the few computers there in use and others reading at table. It certainly didn't seem underused and it is regularly like this when I drop in. I returned the DVDs we'd borrowed, the books for my daughter's history GCSE, my reading book, my other son's ready book and the general interest books - atoms and real life CSI.
Please show your concern for community life, civilised society and children's education and KEEP THIS LIBRARY OPEN.
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