only material differences between the libraries are ones of size and book
resources which have been determined and related to such factors as
population, literacy, and the functions envisaged for the library. Thus
a main library by virtue of its functions as a co-ordinating and book
resource centre is obviously larger than a branch library, whilst a branch library like that of Waterloo Road serving a large student population in the
Pok Fu Lam area must obviously have larger resources than the Aberdeen
Branch Library.
For reference library facilities the policy is to provide
comprehensive resources at the two main libraries and only quick reference
tools such as dictionaries, encyclopaedias etc, at the branch libraries,
supported by a "referral" service whereby branch library staff can tap the
main library's resources by telephone links for enquiries which cannot be
met or satisfied from the books available at the branch.
In giving you this brief run-down of our library services, I
should like to take this opportunity of paying a personal tribute to the
men and women who work in our municipal libraries. They are dedicated and
very interested in their work, which makes our service on the Library Select
Committee pleasant and enjoyable. Perhaps there is no political axe to
grind in this sphere of the Council's responsibility; perhaps there is a
sincere desire to serve our reading public; perhaps the majority of our
readers appreciate the facilities provided: these and other factors have
contributed to the interest shown by councillors themselves.
There is, of course, no room for complacency;
that there is little of that in our thinking.
and I assure you
The criticism which is self-evident is that progress has been slow.
I would be the first to agree, but after three years on the Urban Council
I have learnt that patience is a matter of self-survival, because any delay
is made so plausible by the powers that be.
/And
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