Article from the Sidmouth Herald 4 October 2002.

Computer dispute may lead to library ban for user

IN AN escalation of his dispute over computer systems in Sidmouth library, a Sidford resident faces a possible ban by library chief Lynne Osborne from all Devon libraries.

In a letter to Dr Stephen Wozniak of Packhorse Close, Devon County Council lawyer Tony Sweeney writes: "Bearing in mind your recent behaviour.... the head of Library and Information Services is considering exercising her power to exclude you from all library premises throughout Devon."

He sets out an alleged incident between Dr Wozniak and a librarian at Exeter Central Library on September 17 when some forms were ripped up. Mr Sweeney quotes two library bye-laws in his letter relating to the defacement or damage to library contents and behaving in a disorderly manner.

Dr Wozniak, who first criticised the layout and management of the library computer systems in June has hit back - with a threat of legal action against DCC, including a claim-for £10,000 for defamation. As the Herald went to press he said he was in the final stages of drafting a more detailed letter.

He said: "This is now about far more than incompetent installation and management of computers. It is about the right of taxpayers to question what is being done with their money and without fear of victimisation."

Privacy concerns

Dr Wozniak, who says library computers in Sidmouth do not afford any privacy to users, puts in his draft letter: "People who are capable of asking complex questions in the public interest and who decide voluntarily to expend considerable time and effort to benefit the public good, have a right to expect commensurate answers. "Their questions are (often) vastly more important to good government and the exposure of incompetence and waste of resources than are the simpler questions that are all that your authority and in particular, your Head of Library Services seems able or willing to answer"

He told the Herald: "Our libraries are full of glossy leaflets- and expensive posters promising consultation, accountability - and social inclusion, but at the, end of the day they are a sham. "Government at all levels is becoming more arrogant. As the late Ted Pinney used to say, the pudding needs stirring."

A spokesman for DCC declined to comment on the threat to ban Dr Wozniak. He said: "We are not going to respond. We make no comment on confidential matters between ourselves and council tax payers."

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