It seems to me a bit harsh for Coun. Russell to react in a public way his attempt to shut the door on the democratic process and, in turn, the letter writing campaign of patrons and community members supporting the expansion of all things, a public library.
One of a library's prime directives is to protect the public's access to information. I believe not all information comes from the Internet and other electronic media. The most number of hits or sound-bites do not constitute the truth or facts.
Perhaps the councillor believes that if there were fewer books, it would lessen the need for a new facility. A good old-fashioned book burning ought to suffice. If the councillor is of an age to remember what happens to societies that try to suppress the public’s desire for learning, he ought to re-think his definition of being a progressive and inclusive representative of the people he serves.
John Thomas, St. Albert
