HLAG has not been idle! Following the publication of the Libraries Best Value Review (see crisis page)a vigorous information exercise was immediately launched. A letter-writing campaign aimed at local councillors was initiated, members were canvassed and new members sought. A Public Consultation Meeting (run by the Library Service) was publicized widely. Newspaper coverage was intensified. FORE!'s User Survey was presented to users and results collated. Barbara Roche, our local MP, was kept informed. Contact was made with the Government Department of Culture, Media and Sport and with the Library Association. A poster campaign was begun and continues.

New initiatives were and are being sought. Examples of this can be seen in the plans for an extension at the back (being drawn up at present) and in the hope for regaining use of the first-floor flat. Our local community Centre at Jackson's Lane has told us that many organisations need to rent quiet spaces for their activities. A cyber-cafe is another suggestion. HLAG is hoping to start a number of new ventures to serve local users.

HLAG chairman Susan Chinn has been instrumental in starting a London-wide alliance of library supporters called Triple L (Libraries for Life for Londoners) which will campaign vigorously for libraries in the upcoming elections for the Greater London Authority. Triple L aims to keep ministers aware of the needs and views of users, and to ensure that new committees and official bodies include user group representatives.