The futurologist Li Edelkoort (G2, 8 January) has predicted, among other things, that the libraries of the future will be “epicentres in small towns and villages … which provide lectures and courses, exhibitions and concerts, and lend clothes”. In her view libraries will be one of the ways of addressing our dangerous social disconnection. Libraries Unlimited, a social enterprise and charity, is already doing some of this in Devon. Through working with a local homelessness charity, we have coats and jackets for people who need them. We provide author talks, film screenings, exhibitions, fun palaces and arts events, and our friends groups run a wide range of community events, quizzes and craft workshops. We still also, of course, lend lots of books.
Sue Simmons
Community trustee, Libraries Unlimited
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