Barnet Library Strikers True Stories: “Isaac’s story”

I used to be a librarian but lost my professional post in the last restructure.  It has been difficult readjusting to the Library Customer Service Officer role, but I still am able to utilise my skills and knowledge and this has made the transition easier.  I was a victim of the Council’s lack of respect for Librarianship when the number of professional librarian posts were cut in 2013. It now appears I am to be a victim again when library staff are replaced with volunteers.  I have given nearly thirty years’ service to public libraries, most of it in Barnet.  I am very worried that if I am made redundant that I will not find it easy to get other employment as I am in my late 50’s.  I think those considering running a Partnership library really ought to reconsider. I realise my objections may be dismissed by some as just trying to protect my own interests, but experience tells me that Voluntary organisations are not equipped to run an efficient library.

* Identities have been changed to protect the striker