Modern children's libraries are generally lively, stimulating places where every effort is made for children's visits to be a fun experience. But some statistics show that library visits are falling. The charity Libri (whose mission is 'to encourage a vibrant and relevant network of public libraries') fears that libraries may no longer be used by 2020 if things don't improve.
There is some conflict over the figures. Last year The Guardian reported that British book issues had fallen by an average 31 per cent since 1995, but the Government reported increases in library lending. Libri claims that an analysis of the full figures reveals that only seven library authorities reported increases, out of more than 200. Libri is campaigning for more money to be spent on books and for reform in the library service.
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