I begin this letter with a disclaimer and a plea: it’s not a letter for or against transferring Palmers Green Library to Palmers Green town centre; it is a plea to take every issue into account, especially those that foster community. Michael Brett’s letter (‘Bring change with no delay’, May 12) was simply a polemic aimed at pushing a party-political cause — not a helpful aid to good decisions.

In the interest of quality of life and a strong community, it’s worth asking these questions. Do libraries attract more users if sited in town centres? There appears to be evidence they do. Is the new building fit for purpose? Would Palmers Green town centre be enhanced by a library? Is it in the interest of a stronger community to focus services in the town centre? Would a library in the town encourage a walking community with corresponding social, health and air quality benefits while reducing energy consumption and traffic congestion? Is there a viable alternative use for the current library building which retains its essential character?

Are the benefits worth the cost?

Many of these are too difficult to measure without the resources of the council and specialised knowledge about leases and legal frameworks, but the underlying issue is clear: what is best for quality of life and business viability across the community?

David Hughes, Conway Road, Palmers Green