Sir – Whilst Keith Mitchell’s letter (January 13) shows no great imagination, it does at least leave open an invitation for people to suggest alternatives to closing local libraries.

Here are some possible alternatives for Mr Mitchell to consider and which may allow people to continue to access local services:

  • Merge library services with local post office functions
  • Move library services to school facilities in order to provide locally enhanced services to schoolchildren and adults
  • Franchise library premises to cafes, either independent or chains
  • Plan the development of more integrated community services, bringing together leisure, youth and other services, but saving on overheads and administration
  • Facilitate the development of local mutual societies to provide such services.

Would it be wrong to expect the leadership of the council to investigate how community services can continue to be provided, rather than asking its citizens to prioritise between library services and the fire service?

Matthew Covill, Oxford