Dear Editor,
Re: “New chapter in library budget talks,” News, Nov. 16.
It appears the clawback of services at Richmond libraries will continue based on the recent report in the Richmond News.
Libraries are critical spaces in the community: They provide space to research, to reflect, and to use resources that may not be available at home.
Cutbacks not only hurt the general public, but put vulnerable groups like the elderly, low-income families and children at further risk.
I would far rather better selection in the library and fewer public art pieces.
Compared to cities such as Vancouver, Richmond’s public consultation on the budget was embarrassing.
The online survey asked citizens to read the report and freehand what they thought.
No consideration was given to allowing citizens the opportunity to provide real feedback regarding priorities.
A true consultation would have allowed you and I to provide some direction — road maintenance or public art; library funding or tram renewals.
I suggest that perhaps Mayor Brodie will have more time to read after the next election if the citizens of Richmond elect a mayor interested in supporting its public.
H. Munn
Richmond
