The British Library has recently come under criticism for linking to Amazon on its online public catalogue. It’s being argued that this will drive readers away from local libraries and local bookshops. As Johnny de Falbe, co-owner of London’s John Sandoe bookshop, put it “If the British Library, of all people, are not supporting British bookshops, and positively steering business away from independents, then why should anyone else have any faith, or interest, in independents?”
Apparently 800 bookshops have shut in Britain in the past five years, including almost 400 independent outlets, so does he not have a point? Or should the British Library be able to act as it chooses? Tell us your views!
