HAVING been to most libraries located in the heartland, I find that I enjoy the various amenities available.

The libraries have helpful and courteous staff, and offer a diverse range of reading materials which are categorised and segmented for easy reference.

However, it saddens me to observe that some people do not appreciate such a congenial environment. Some beautifully-wrapped books and journals are in poor condition, because users do not know how to handle them.

Why can't library users make an effort to return materials to their original section, instead of leaving them elsewhere?

Don't they have empathy for the staff who have to shelve scattered materials, due to the users' nonchalant attitudes?

Some parents do not bat an eyelid when their children treat the library like a playground. Others are displeased when library staff advise their children not to engage in horseplay.

I have seen older people having little naps sometimes, and their occasional snores are exasperating.

This negative behaviour deprives others of a seat in the library when they need it.

We need the library for acquiring knowledge. For it to serve us well, we must do our part by being considerate and understanding.

Mr Jeffrey Law Lee Beng

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