I KNOW of no one deeming 'Look no further than the libraries' worthy of a response. Whilst I acknowledge that the media certainly has a role to play

I KNOW of no one deeming 'Look no further than the libraries' worthy of a response.Whilst I acknowledge that the media certainly has a role to play in examining the disbursement of public funds, the conduct of politicians and the standard of service provided by local and National Government, I consider the publication of such uninformed opinion irresponsible, clouding rather than clarifying the deliberations.Had you researched the issue you may have noticed genuine, unprecedented demands upon North Somerset Council, coupled with a growing population. The available revenue, conversely, is insufficient to maintain the present quality and quantity of services. Due to the vagaries of local authority funding from National Government, coupled with other significant factors, you may observe that for a number of years, irrespective of party politics, a fiscal deterioration which has already necessitated drastic economies.At our recent annual staff conference, the head of libraries and information, a man who knows each of the 120 library staff by name and nature, thanked everyone for their efforts, acknowledging that many people work more hours than perhaps they should. We then learned, that, due to necessary circumstances, we would be asked to deliver our services to the public without the ideal level of financial backing. The directorate, having already made drastic economies, is now faced with further cuts. All managers and staff have the stressful prospect of providing quality services whilst continuing to account for every last penny, fewer of which are available.There seems to be no evidence to suggest that any other directorate in North Somerset is in any better situation.J S F MCLORINAN - Library assistant (including counter duties), The Boulevard, Weston