Letter: Libraries Need Not Be Silent But Need To Be Used with Consideration For Others

Published on: 12 Feb, 2026
Updated on: 11 Feb, 2026

From the Guildford Library Team

In response to: Libraries Need Not Be Silent

Mr Dover is absolutely right, long gone is the era of libraries being silent spaces where no-one dare utter a word and conversations needing to be carried out in hushed whispers.

In fact, in libraries we encourage youngsters to sing out loud during rhymetime, play Dungeons and Dragons, and there are games nights and Lego clubs.

Libraries are where it happens – social, educational, cultural pillars in the heart of our communities. Free spaces where we absolutely encourage students to come and study using the free WIFI, desks and PCs. That’s what it’s all about.

We have plans this year to improve Guildford Library with new study spaces, chairs, public toilet, meeting pods, soft seating and the introduction of face-to-face registration appointments.

And yes there are many different people visiting the library for many different things – and with that in mind we all need to use this shared space in a respectful manner for all other users.

When it comes to noise levels – we welcome debate and conversation. However on this occasion there had also been some throwing of items at which point the library staff did have to step in for the sake of other library users, and kindly ask them to stop.

We do hope you will once again visit us and if accountancy isn’t for you, may we recommend our careers and skills section which might help you decide on an alternative career path?