With regard to the question of whether or not library rules should be modernised, if they really must be, then quietly discussing a book or even a film over a coffee or a tea would be fine by me.
So would a corner for accompanied and well-behaved children, not to mention the provision of a quiet zone for purists.
The library is probably the only surviving bastion free from mobile phones and, therefore, intrusive ringing tones and far louder speech than normal conversation.
I would beg the council - if and when the question ever comes up - to please, please keep our libraries free from mobiles.
Anne Grice Address withheld
