Libraries are magical institutions. It can feel unreal that they still exist, given how fantastical the idea of them seems. Buildings where you can go and borrow books for free, chat to people with a passion for books and exchange knowledge, all at (mostly) no cost. The very concept of libraries feels like something you’d find in one of the many books they hold.

Yesterday’s announcement by the Auckland City Council provided the cold reality. After months of consultation and media reports, it revealed the results of its risible Fit for the Future programme, designed to “evolve” the city’s library network.

We now know that 74 staff members have taken voluntary redundancy, while around 100 currently vacant positions have been disbanded. “The same level of service will reduce by approximately $1.8 million a year, meaning better value for money for ratepayers,” chirped the council’s inane press release. Job loss dressed as lamb.

The full article was published at The Spinoff on April 11 2017.