Book Box Plans Abandoned

At the Parish Council meeting (Monday 27th March) the decision was taken to abandon, or at least park in the very long grass, the plan to install a "Book Exchange Box" on land opposite the Post Office on the High Street. The land is owned by the Highways Department and, though they gave permission for the erection of a Book Box, they expressed grave concerns that it would attract vandals and stated categorically that their street cleaners would not pick up any books that might be strewn about.

Former Councillor Sue Hardacre said "The suggestion for a Book Box had come from a resident who had seen them in other places. I had championed the idea, which for a small cost of £200/300 might have spread a bit of cheer and encouraged community links. While I understand the concerns, I am sorry that this modest proposal has faltered before a possible risk of something that may or may not happen".

Other locations, in local shops for instance, were briefly considered. Such a facility in the Community Centre could impact on the Library Service, a very important local resource. So those whose book shelves are full of unwanted editions will have to think again on how to get rid of them.

Ed: The photograph shows an American example of a book box.