To expect a library to stock Breakfast at Tiffany's?

[Scabetty]

Dd asked to read this today so off we went to 3 libraries and came home empty handed. Three weeks to order in from another library apparently. I have ordered a used copy from Amazon instead. Is it a rare book or a very popular book?

YANBU. I'd say it's neither rare nor hugely popular, TBH, but would think a library would have it even if just because people might come to it through watching the film.

I would expect a few copies to exist cross the library system, but not necessarily at the branch I happened to be visiting. Hence being able to get a copy sent out to you.

Financial and space constraints means it would be pretty pointless (and wasteful) for every single branch library in your county to have a copy of a particular novel, even a classic.

I wouldn't expect it to be in every branch. It has been ordered for you which seems fair enough. Libraries don't have the space or budget to have everything. Blame the people who create demand for crap like Fifty Shades and the like!

Three weeks is a pretty standard wait for a specific book from the library. The goods ones are quite often out on loan when you want them, so you have to wait a few weeks for that anyway.

How old is your daughter, Scabetty? There's some pretty awful homophobia in it.

I think yabu - small branch libraries can only stock a certain amount, and they could have ordered it for you.

It's a lovely little book though, other than the homophobia.

Many library authorities are putting together collections of books for reading groups to borrow for a month at a time, which are stored centrally. This means that any moderately popular or classic book is unavailable to the ordinary borrower. Just one of the many strategies central libraries are employing to close branch libraries and centralise everything.

Remus, dd is 14 yo. Do you think she's too young? I am pretty open on discussing all forms of prejudice with her and she has a mature head. She wants to read it and discuss with a friend as they have done this a few times and enjoy hearing each other's opinions.

14 absolutely fine! :)

Phew, thanks.