Library service saved, but what's the real cost?

We now know that the decision of Somerset County Council to drastically curtail our library provision was made without due regard for the impact on Somerset's most vulnerable citizens.

Many wrote to councillors, several thousands of people signed petitions demanding a rethink. The pages of this newspaper were filled with letters decrying the decision.

Then the public donated several thousand pounds to afford a legal challenge, and after a court case costing the general tax payer hundreds of thousands of pounds more, the council got the message.

If you are elderly, infirm, mentally ill, unemployed, physically disabled, a carer, poor, young or a full-time parent, and living in rural Somerset your access to library services will be restored. However at what cost? Community transport, youth services, personal care, social care, day care, highways maintenance, recycling facilities, educational support, special needs provision, meals on wheels, rehabilitation services, the list goes on.

Isn't it interesting that those who propose austerity appear to be some of the most insulated against its effects?

It's not the public libraries that broke the bank, it was George Osborne's friends in the City, the privateers and bankers.

Although it might be politically expedient to pass the cost to the most vulnerable in our society, it is scandalously unfair.

Kieron Corrigan

Actis Road, Glastonbury