WHEN Darlington library closes, the town’s MP and the those responsible for its closure will be remembered in the same way as my generation remembers Doctor Beeching.

For those born after 1960, he was the wise person who decided to close many of the branch railways.

Beeching decided branch railways weren’t needed any more.

Does this sound familiar?

Today we all realise the stupidity of that decision.

The disappointing thing about the library closure is the way the argument has split along political party lines.

The ruling group of councillors and our MP have failed to see the library is a lot more than a book lending service. It is a place of education, sanctuary and a focus for people can enjoy themselves without spending money they don’t have.

Is there no one who will stand up and be counted from the ruling political party?

It puzzles me. Can you imagine what people will think of us in 30 years, that we allowed this to happen?

John Minto, Sadberge