… and here’s the link to the map of events. The scale of the proposed closures in some places (you can see it here) beggars belief.
I worked in a library for twelve years, and I was proud to work in a service that was both valuable and valued – by the users, if not by some of the decision-makers. Much of the research for the Ruso books was, and is, done through libraries. I’d never have had the confidence, the background knowledge or the cash to get started any other way.
Meanwhile, Stony Stratford library could be about to receive a small but not unwelcome windfall. Having borrowed every single item to protest at the possible closure (see ‘Wot no books?’ below), the excellent and resourceful residents now face the challenge of remembering to take all 16,000 things back on time -or pay the fines.
Ruth Downie 
Many libraries in the states are paying attention to your UK libraries and their patrons’ plucky resistence to budget cuts. It’s great!
I have just finished Caveat Emptor (as it’s titled over here) – thanks again for another wonderful read! It’s always fun spending time with Ruso and Tilla. And congratulations on the terrific reviews you have been receiving. I think Kirkus has a fine idea by suggesting Masterpiece Theatre pick this up as a series.
That’s interesting, Susie. I knew the Stony Stratford protest had become famous (they’re now selling mugs with ‘Save Stony Stratford Library – The campaign that went from local to global’) but it never struck me that libraries elsewhere would be watching the whole catastrophe unfold. I hope you never have the same fight on your hands but if you do, at least you’ll be furnished with some useful tactics and arguments.
I’m finding the whole thing slightly frustrating as until recently I worked at one of Stony Stratford’s sister libraries. We’re now living 200 miles away: too far to offer much more than moral support. But it is great to see Carole Matthews pitching in (Carole researched one of her books by working there as a volunteer) and also local photographer Karen Parker, who did my author photo for the book covers. She’s done some great coverage of the protest: you might enjoy this shot of the mug – http://www.flickr.com/photos/39214093@N05/5383653023/ The other side reads, ‘Keep calm and carry on reading’.
Anyway, I must stop ranting. Thank you for the kind comments about the book!
Best wishes,
Ruth