New space needed for Gozo public library

I know these are cash-strapped times but the Gozo Public Library at Vajringa Street, Victoria desperately needs a new purpose-built premises or, at the very least, a substantial extension.

The present premises were built more than 100 years ago (they were officially opened on March 9, 1896) and are proving to be woefully inadequate for present-day needs.

Suffice it to say that every local newspaper is archived and these are taking substantial storage space. Not to mention the veritable explosion in local publications about practically every subject under the Maltese sun.

George Borg and his staff are trying to cope as best they can. They have even resorted to making do with makeshift shelves and using the corridors as extra storage space. Not exactly state-of-the-art stuff but certainly one which shows dedication. So far, they have been able to retrieve promptly every publication I ask for. But it is only a matter of time before publications will inevitably be misplaced. Which would be a pity as they are giving a sterling service to the public at large.

One more point. I know this is above my pay grade but I have my doubts about the structural soundness of the building being able to cope with the sheer weight of publications it houses.