Ex-Waterstone’s boss praises library policy (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Ex-Waterstone’s boss praises library policy

8:40am Saturday 3rd January 2009 in News By David Connop Price

HAMPSHIRE County Council is to trumpet how its leads the way with new libraries – after mothballing plans for Basingstoke Discovery Centre.

The council plans to hold a “best practice conference” with other local authorities and library campaigner Tim Coates, a former managing director of Waterstone’s bookshops chain.

It follows Mr Coates’ television appearance from Winchester Discovery Centre in which he said Hampshire had the “secret ingredient” when it comes to libraries.

Discovery Centres are libraries that have been redesigned to offer internet access, rooms for community groups, learning suites, children’s areas and a coffee bar, as well as books.

In October the county indefinitely postponed proposals to replace the library in Festival Place with a Discovery Centre – planned as a new entrance to The Malls – because of the credit crunch, opting instead to update the existing facility.

After agreeing with county leader Councillor Ken Thornber to hold the conference, Mr Coates said: “A good library makes a profound contribution to a local community and provides a place for private, dignified reading and study.

“Libraries must be modern, safe, clean, welcoming and attractive.

“They need to have a high reputation not only among those who use them, but also those who do not but still understand their value.”

Cllr Thornber said: “It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach in Hampshire which makes its libraries such a success. I’m delighted to welcome Tim on board.”