So now it seems as if the Hampshire libraries are struggling, (Talking Over Library Cuts, Daily Echo May 31), and are planning staffing cuts to reduce their proposed overspend.

As secretary of the Friends 4 Upton Library, despite author talks and proposed art competitions for youngsters, it seems as if the computer game is far mightier than the library book, and we are fighting a losing battle against the electronic age.

We have recently gained some National Lottery funding to help raise awareness of the Upton library, by making small yet, we hope, beneficial improvements, while a local business has given a cash donation for the art competition prizes; but that old adage of “You can lead a horse to water....” seems to crop up every time. And despite libraries upping their competitive edge within the market by offering DVDs, use of computers etc; and, very soon, book downloads, it seems as if parents would rather buy than borrow, which is a reflection of our affluent society.

Thus, it seems, our libraries will either be open for shorter periods, or closed on a permanent basis, leaving the mobile library van to fill the ever-decreasing void.

Alan Burridge, Blandford Road, Upton