For people in poverty the library is a many-faceted resource. Many areas of London have high concentrations of people on benefits who cannot afford books, newspapers, or computers. The library offers all these, with newspapers being of particular importance to the unemployed seeking jobs. The bookstock and other materials give the opportunities to discover and pursue new interests. For people in cramped accommodation who need to take their children out the library is the only interesting place that does not cost money.
Elderly people read more than most age groups and value their libraries.
I solated and frail elderly people appreciate not only borrowing books which are their main pleasure but enjoy the feeling of being part of the community which visiting the library gives them. It is also a source of information about local meetings, courses, or entertainment that is cheap or free. The library provides information and guidance on lifelong learning opportunites, it stimulates readers to want to take courses, and supports their studies by providing background reading and reference material in all media. We welcome the government initiative in promoting, and to some extent financing, new technology in public libraries. In view of the fact that there is already so much information that is available only on the internet, and that many people cannot afford the hardware, we consider it essential.