A little on libraries..

These days I've relegated my soap box to a dusty and little used corner of the mind, surrounded by fencing, Keep Out signs, and a few mental landmines. 

It may come as a surprise to regular readers of these meanderings, but I do have some self-awareness and know how easily I can launch into a diatribe or eulogy, or just any kind of wordy careering downhill slalom.

However! I do have a little something to say on the subject of libraries - if you'll indulge me - but will keep it brief (as much as ever I do.)

Libraries, in my humble view, are simply fab, as are the folk who run them.  They do wonderful work, but so quietly and modestly that it can easily be overlooked.

Quite aside from the obvious, they can so often be the heart of a community, where many people come to meet.  In fact, I've spoken to some who say without the library they would rarely go out and have somewhere to see a friendly face and enjoy a chat.

And as for the librarians themselves - dedicated, kind professionals who spend their lives serving their communities without fanfare or self promotion.

So here's to libraries and all who work in them, particularly at this difficult time when all the pubic sector is facing a more than challenging future.

Where did this eruption of praise come from?  The answer is thus - my good fortune in being part of the Writers' Workshop in St Austell yesterday.  It was a superbly organised day, with a wonderful group of readers and equally fine librarians looking after them. 

By the way, hello to everyone who was there, thanks for making me so welcome - and most importantly for laughing at the right points in my little talk.  It was a great pleasure to meet you all.

Finally for this blog, I'm being allowed out to take part in a fair few more events this summer. On the off chance you might be able to face one, there are mMore details on the News and Events page -  www.thetvdetective.com/news.html