New vision

Repositioning the library is not about relocation.

Repositioning is about changing the concept of a service or product in the mind of consumers and the public. It takes vision.

Repositioned, the library can become the hub of a cultural and heritage centre that would be built around it in the vicinity and would include the museum and art gallery, as well as other facilities, like an associated auditorium and a cafe.

Rather than diminishing the library based on attendance, developing ways to increase participation would be more productive.

The library can become a cultural corner of a golden triangle of commerce and culture that would include Golden Square Shopping Centre and the new Warrington Market.

Beyond borrowing, the library can become the focus of literary events and activity with performance poetry and other readings, musical recitals, municipally funded buskers in the streets around about during summer and an annual Word On The Street literary festival, involving publishers, authors, writing seminars, and dramatic performances to add to the Contemporary Arts Festival.

Properly promoted, participation would transform the area and with it the library.

The concept of a commerce and culture triangle is synergistic and would encourage business to be supportive.

It would act as an indirect source of commercial activity and revenue in the hotel, restaurant and shopping sectors as well as boosting cultural activity. Yes, culture costs but studies show that an active arts scene creates indirect economic benefits.

Now that Brexit is a reality, towns and the nation must develop not only Britain’s economic base but also its cultural distinction to remain viable.

But locally it takes imagination and commitment to reposition the library in its current location.

Perhaps some of LiveWire’s funding can be redirected into hiring an events and promotions coordinator accountable to the library board?

GORDON LEIGH Alberta