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12/11/03 - Eyes down for the big read

Cumbrian readers are going to their local libraries to join in the big vote for the nation’s favourite books after watching The Big Read on BBC Two. Cumbria County Council’s libraries service reports increased demand for the novels on the BBC’s shortlist for The Big Read and readers are taking advantage of free access to the Internet at county libraries for those wanting to cast a vote for their best-loved book.   

Councillor Tim Heslop, Cumbria County Council Cabinet member with responsibility for libraries, said:   

"I am delighted that the BBC Big Read is encouraging hundreds of thousands of people to read the books on the short list for the first or for the umpteenth time and the county libraries service is pleased to be able to support such schemes. The reading habit is well worth getting into. It lasts a lifetime and leads to enjoyment and knowledge." 

The libraries service has bought in extra stock to cope with the increased demand. Some readers are working their way through all 21 volumes on the shortlist. Library staff have raised awareness with displays of information and report increased interest among borrowers.   

Cumbria Library Service operations manager Liz Bowe said:    

"The short list shows that romance is not yet dead. Many of the top 21 books are about love - or war. My prediction for number one is Wuthering Heights. It has everything - it is a psychological love story and a thriller in a wild setting, and Emily Bronte brought in feminist issues which were ahead of their time."   

Anyone can join in The Big Read today. Membership of their local library is free -- all that is needed is proof of name and address such as a driving licence, council tax form or bank statement.