Save library, it's a lifeline (From South Wales Argus)

Save library, it's a lifeline

3:00pm Wednesday 20th March 2013 in Letters

IF ‘small is beautiful’, so is Stow Hill library, a much- loved institution now under severe threat.

Small libraries help to instil a love of literature. I know. I went to Stow Hill as a young boy from the Ridgeway prefabs and ended up writing numerous books on Newport and Gwent. Yet Newport City Council want to shut it down, denying the toddlers who now go there the chance to become the next Leslie Thomas or Ken Follett, both of whom have acknowledged the pivotal role small libraries played in their formative years, inspiring them to become writers. Yes, the council want to close a building which many describe as their ‘lifeline’, one which is a haven for schoolchildren and senior citizens and the local multicultural community. A building providing vital computer access to those who do not possess one. A building belonging not just to the Handpost but to every part of the city of Newport. Stow Hill is the only one of Newport’s 12 libraries facing the axe. Many do not know this and are horrified to learn the truth. Please help save Stow Hill library. Contact Councillor Debbie Wilcox and communicate to her your concerns.

Alan Roderick Llanthewy Road Newport