What does it say about our society today when Manchester’s architect-designed Hulme Library building, which was opened in 1962 and which was recently closed due to government cuts, is to reopen as an overnight shelter for the homeless? In a further irony, running along the front of the building is an 85-foot ceramic mural which chronicles the history of the community from Roman times to the present day. Perhaps someone from The Great Pottery Throwdown might like to add a final panel.
Paul Travis
Saddleworth, Greater Manchester
• Hilary Osborne cheerfully recommends Blackwell’s as an ethical bookseller in her Christmas shopping guide (Don’t take the wrap, G2, 16 December). The chain’s owner, longtime Eurosceptic Julian Blackwell, is one of Ukip’s biggest donors; in 2010 he gave £175,000 to the party. Makes Amazon seem suddenly more appealing…
Rebecca Grant
Oxford
• Rose George (The long read, 15 December) says science doesn’t know what the menopause is “for”. But asking “what is it for?” isn’t appropriate for living organisms and their features. Here purpose and design are both an illusion.
Dr Alex May
Manchester
• I expect that lot No 13, the “silver-plated House of Commons stationary rack”, did not sell because no one could move it – rather like its owner (Thatchers sell the family silver – and a bit of tat, too, 16 December).
Ruth Eversley
Paulton, Somerset
• Two-thirds of astronauts travelling to the International Space Station on Tuesday were called Tim (Report, 16 December). I now know what my next grandchild should be called.
Toby Wood
Peterborough, Cambridgeshire
• My mimosa is in flower! Daffodils have been out for a month (Letters, passim).
Mary Bolton
London
• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com
