Ian Anstice
Public librarian since 1994, user of public libraries since my first memories ... and a keen advocate of public libraries and chronicler of the UK public libraries scene. Library manager since 1998, winner of Information Professional of the Year 2011 and Winsford Customer Service "Oscar" 2012 and 2014, honorary CILIP fellow 2015, CILIP Wales Library Champion of the Year 2016.
Homepage: https://www.publiclibrariesnews.com
Posts by Ian Anstice
The real challenge
Jun 12th
Editorial
The Summer Reading Challenge for children, this year themed as “Gadgeteers”, is officially launching in England on Saturday 9 July. It’s by far the biggest promotion that public libraries put on each year and has the highest profile in the public mind. Ask most parents, at least in my limited and biased experience, and they’re likely to know about it. Primary schools too. And this is especially key for the sector this year, as both parents and schools are intensely aware that their children may be a bit behind in reading due to lockdowns. So libraries are pushing, hopefully, at an open door this year. Which is good because this therefore represents the biggest and best opportunity have had so far to get adults and childrens back to visiting them. Best of luck then to you all in organising getting as many people as possible into libraries in July and August. There are already articles appearing about it a month before the event so things are looking good and I’ll certainly be covering it more in future posts. Between doing school assemblies that is.
Changes by Local Authority
- Bridgend – Pencoed Library too be refurbished
- Haringey – Joins The Library Consortium.
- Wirral – Of nine under threat, community groups/volunteers will take over seven libraries (Hoylake, Irby, Pensby, Prenton, Wallasey, Woodchurch and Higher Bebington), two (Bromborough and New Ferry) will likely close.
National news
- 2022 Marketing Excellence Awards – CILIP. “The awards offer national exposure for your project and communicate the value of what you’re doing among funders, partners, media, peers, managers and customers. You’ve done the hard work, delivering your project. Now win some extra recognition”
- Books, books, books: An obsessive-compulsive tour of England’s libraries – Times Literary Supplement. “Among the duties he imposes on himself is to make sense of “who, library-wise, runs what”. “We’re Southend”, he’s told when trying to log on using his Essex county council card. Southend is in Essex, but, owing to a pettifogging quirk of local government that he never manages to fathom, its library is municipally independent.” … “In 2009, 68 per cent of all books published sold an average of eighteen copies each. It is to be hoped that An English Library Journey – eccentric homage and passionate clarion call – does better than that.”. Amazon page.
- Fantastic for Families Awards 2022: Applications now open – Family Arts. Need to submit before 22 June.
- Instrument Libraries – call for donations of money and instruments – Edinburgh Reporter. Several public libraries involved. “Each library is paired with a local music project or the local authority’s instrumental music service, and all of the libraries are keen to build links with other local music groups, schools, community projects and venues. The project has just launched a crowdfunding campaign, with a call-out for donations of both money and musical instruments,to help fill the libraries with as many musical instruments and learning resources as possible.”
- A library alt text bot – Library Data Blog. “There is a significant amount of current bad practice. It’s common to see library services tweet out posters, with key information only in image format, publishing these on social media without any corresponding text. In many cases this is the only place the information is published. To someone using a screen reader all they know is that their library has shared an image. It could be a funny photo of a cat that’s squashed itself into a box, or it could be a notification that the library is closed that day. So, I created the library alt text bot.” … “Many have decided to block the bot and continue to tweet content that isn’t accessible.”
- Libraries Connected announces Peer Mentoring Scheme – Libraries Connected.
- Libraries Connected calls for increased support for library services amid cost-of-living crisis – Libraries Connected. “Libraries Connected is urging the Government not to “take libraries for granted” as they cope with increased demand resulting from the cost-of-living crisis. A recent survey of 32 heads of library services in England, Wales and Northern Ireland conducted by Libraries Connected revealed that over 80% expect an increase in people using libraries to keep warm next winter. This has the potential to place extra pressure on library staff.” Report here (PDF).
- The Library of Things: coming to a town near you – Positive News. “Following a successful crowdfunding campaign, the model will now be expanded from the existing seven neighbourhoods to 50 across England.”
- Murdering the competition: Richard Osman thriller tops UK library loans – Guardian. “Following Osman’s novel, the second most borrowed book was Blue Moon, from Lee Child’s Jack Reacher series. Other crime and thriller books in the top 10 were The Long Call by Ann Cleeves, Find Them Dead by Peter James and The Sentinel, also by Child.” … “Rowling dominated the list of most borrowed children’s titles, with all seven Harry Potter books coming out on top.The three remaining slots in the children’s top 10 were taken by David Walliams”
“The figures cover a period in which a lot of libraries had to close for periods of time because of the pandemic. Tom Holland, author and chair of the PLR advisory committee said that“to have kept the show on the road during a time of pandemic, and ensured that authors will continue to be paid for library loans, despite the very worst that Covid could do, has been nothing less than heroic”.”
- Report reveals ‘transformative’ impact of Cowell’s Life-changing Libraries initiative – BookSeller. “Waterstones Children’s Laureate Cressida Cowell has revealed the “transformative” impact on the pilot primary schools taking part in her “Life-changing Libraries” initiative, including an increase in a love of reading, motivation towards learning, well-being and feelings of self-worth. Cowell used the launch to renew calls for £100m in annual school library funding from the government.”
- Stop this Marxist anti-British madness: Fury at plans to ‘decolonise’ Commons library – Express. Plans on how to diversify library content “was condemned by some MPs as “woke nonsense” akin to “burning books”.”
International news
- Global – Delivering on children’s fundamental rights during the pandemic: library perspectives and experiences – IFLA. “IFLA’s input to a call for contributions by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights draws on library experiences with promoting and delivering on the fundamental rights of children and young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic to highlight good practices and lessons learned.”
- Ireland – Hefty eBook fees causing crisis for library budgets – Irish Examiner. “Scandalous” high eBook prices from English-language “Big Five” publishers.
- Turkey – In Turkey, book publishers face agonising choices to survive – Al Jazeera. Inflation and high cost or print greatly reducing range of new Turkish books.
- USA – Quitting Time – American Libraries. “The pandemic is exacerbating attrition among library workers” … “Common reasons for resignations include burnout, frustration, low pay, and low morale. Those factors are notably pervasive in the library world”
- Conservative parents take aim at library apps meant to expand access to books – NBC News. “Campaigns that started with criticizing school board members and librarians have turned their attention to tech companies such as OverDrive and Epic, which operated for years without drawing much controversy.”
- The Mind Behind Maus Speaks Out – I Love Libraries. “Art Spiegelman’s life was changed by libraries. The author and artist of graphic novel Maus spoke with American Libraries in their June 2022 issue about the importance of libraries in his life growing up and shared his thoughts on the increase in book challenges and bans occurring across the US—including those involving Maus. Spiegelman’s Pulitzer Prize–winning graphic novel details his father’s experiences during the Holocaust, with Jewish characters depicted as mice and Nazis as cats. Maus has been the subject of multiple challenges and bans since its publication in 1991—most recently in January when the board of McMinn County (Tenn.) School District removed the title from its 8th-grade curriculum for depictions of nudity and adult language.”
- Mobile library Street Books feeds literary passions of Portlanders living outdoors – OPB. “Near a street corner in Portland’s Old Town neighborhood, street librarian Diana Rempe has set up a cargo bike with a shelf display and a massive wooden box emblazoned with “Street Books”.”
- Report: “Comics Librarians Are Up for the Fight” – Infodocket. “Graphic novels are easy targets for challenges, because “there are panels that are easy to pull out and throw around on social media and take out of context”
- We need to have a talk about “censorship” – Pure Unhinged Ideology. Librarian argues against neutrality: “Applying this inclusion of “all views,” as hoopla insists they do, means you get books in their collection on Holocaust denialism (Debating the Holocaust), COVID denialism (Fight COVID with Melatonin), conversion therapy (Attack on the Family), and defenses of the alt-right in their own words (A Fair Hearing).” … “librarianship has got to have a reckoning about this whole censorship/intellectual freedom/neutrality debacle.”.
Local news by authority
- Bridgend – Work set to modernise Pencoed library with community meeting room and new study space – Wales Online. “Awen Cultural Trust has been awarded a grant from the Welsh Government to reconfigure and modernise Pencoed Library.”
- Cheshire West and Chester – Rare BFG drawings by Roald Dahl book illustrator Quentin Blake to go on show in Chester – Chester Standard. “Cheshire West Libraries will be holding Roald Dahl-themed book displays (featuring the competition details)”
- Coventry – Digital Spaces present event to showcase at Coventry libraries – Coventry Council. “This will be a two-day showcase of live events that will feature digital activities, artwork and immersive experiences that celebrate Coventry Libraries as places of creativity, community and new perspectives.”
- East Riding – Free self-paced computer courses in East Riding Libraries or from home using your own device – East Riding of Yorkshire Council. “Learn My Way has over 30 free courses”
- Edinburgh – Announcing the winner: Learning Professional Award 2022 – Scottish Book Trust. “Julie has been commended for treating pupils as individuals and taking the time to get to know their barriers to learning, their personal situations and their personalities, so as to provide a better service for them.”
- Moredun Library need help with Tumbledown Terrace evacuation 22 years ago – Edinburgh Reporter. “the library would love to interview you, record your recollections and make copies of any photos you might have for a local oral history project.”
- Hackney – Hackney librarian Sue Comitti thrilled to receive British Empire Medal – Hackney Gazette. “during the 1970s she was told she would never be promoted because of her gender. She said it was typical of the times and carried on. Fast forward to 2016 and she was promoted to libraries and heritage services manager”
- Hampshire – Hampshire libraries to celebrate Loneliness Awareness Week with variety of workshops and activities – The News.
- Haringey – Haringey Council joins The Libraries Consortium – Haringey Council. “members will now have access to millions more items of stock, with a greater diversity of material. With Haringey Libraries joining, The Libraries Consortium members will equally also have access to Haringey Libraries diverse range of material. Joining The Libraries Consortium makes us part of a single powerful brand that exists to enrich all our communities.”
- Kent – Entrepreneurs take advantage of business advice at Kent BIPC – Kent Council. ““Our libraries have always had a business support service. This is part of the role of libraries; we are part of the ecosystem of community wellbeing and sustainability and an area post-pandemic where we could do more to support businesses. “What we needed was to make a step-change to the next level – the answer was to apply to become part of the BIPC network.”
- Leeds- Boy with rare heart defect granted wish to become Ghostbuster for a day – Sky News. “George will be strapping on his proton pack for a day of hunting down ghouls after charity Make-A-Wish joined forces with Leeds Libraries to make his dream come true.” … “Leeds Central Library will be transformed into a haunted house, with ghosts projected on the walls to create a suitably spooky setting in the Yorkshire Room.”
- Leicester – Work coaches in libraries expands to Belgrave – Leicester Council.
- Moray – Prepare to play in Moray with Lego library activities – Moray Council. “Moray’s Libraries team is inviting residents to visit between 10 June and 10 August to colour in a Play Pledge and make the most of Lego play activities.”
- North Lanarkshire – Poetry competition launches for North Lanarkshire residents – Daily Record. “Creative residents of North Lanarkshire have the chance to see their work included in an e-book celebrating Scotland’s current year of stories. The area’s libraries are running a poetry competition “to celebrate the treasured tales we tell each other”. Winning entries will be compiled into a digital publication which will be available through online lending service BorrowBox and will be released on national poetry day on October 6.”
- North Yorkshire – Recycling small electricals can make a big difference – North Yorkshire County Council. “20 libraries across the county will temporarily be collecting small electrical items until July 8. Participating libraries will also be giving away tubs to store used batteries, which will be available while stocks last.”
- Library visits remain low following pandemic – Craven Herald. “library visits in the year to April were at about 60 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, book issues had returned to about 85 per cent of the number being borrowed before March 2020.” … “although the county’s “almost unique model” of largely volunteer-run libraries had only reopened partially following lockdowns last year, it still attracted more than a million visits last year and saw nearly 1.5 million books issued.”
- Volunteers sought to help young readers connect with science – North Yorkshire County Council. Summer Reading Challenge: ““Taking part as a volunteer is always rewarding and I look forward to it every year. It feels amazing being able to share my love for reading with the children.””
- Nottingham – ‘Enormous shame’ as more flats could be created on former Nottingham library site – Nottinghamshire Live. Carlton Road Library closed in 2011. One member of public says “I just think it would be a real shame. A library closes down and it’s for the public. I just think it’s an enormous shame. Libraries are for everyone. I think it would be an enormous shame – we have enough flats.” but others say flats are needed.
- Shetlands – Library stats best in the UK per head of population – Shetland News. Due to swift recovery after lockdowns. “… during lockdown there was a “huge uptake” in electronic services. We also changed to home deliveries […] of media in print, and that was really appreciated by lots of families as well”
- Suffolk – Moomins and murals: Suffolk Libraries to return to First Light Festival – The Lowestoft Journal. “The Suffolk Libraries Arts Team and staff from Lowestoft Library are teaming up to provide free activities for all the family from their Teepee in the Cosmic Pirates area.”
- Wandsworth – Book returned to Wandsworth Library 48 years and 107 days overdue – London News Online. Library waives fines, currently capped at £8.50.
- West Berkshire – Join the Gadgeteers at your local library this summer – Newbury Today. Advance publicity for the Summer Reading Challenge.
- Westminster – Young residents’ artwork championing key issues to be showcased in Westminster’s libraries and then the Saatchi Gallery – City of Westminster Council. “Artwork by young artists, aged 6 to 18, is being installed in local libraries across Westminster”
- Wirral – Seven Wirral libraries could be saved but two set to close – Liverpool Echo. Community groups will take over seven libraries (Hoylake, Irby, Pensby, Prenton, Wallasey, Woodchurch and Higher Bebington), two (Bromborough and New Ferry) will likely close. “Local groups will have some financial support to keep their libraries going. The council has allocated £282,000 to support those running the libraries in their first year of operation. The local authority has also pledged £500,000 out of its capital budget, for infrastructure projects, to support investment to improve their physical condition where this is needed.”
“There can be no levelling up in the UK until there is a restoration of funding for the public services on which we all rely. Conservative Governments since 2010 have decimated funding to local authorities. Central Government funding for Wirral Council dropped 85% between 2010 and 2020. The impact on our communities is devastating. As a result, in Wirral West the future of libraries in Hoylake, Irby, Pensby and Woodchurch is uncertain, as is the future of Woodchurch leisure centre and swimming pool. Far from levelling up, the loss of those facilities means the running down and impoverishment of the lives of everyone who relies on the services. How short-sighted of the Government to ignore the importance of libraries, pools and leisure centres.”
Margaret Greenwood MP, Wirral West
- Worcestershire – Bromsgrove library helps Ukrainian guests connect in the community – Bromsgrove Advertiser. “The library along with Pershore, Malvern, Kidderminster and The Hive is hosting Ukraine Connections sessions for Ukrainian visitors and their host families living in the area.” … ““Host families are encouraged to bring their Ukrainian guests to their local library, so they can see for themselves the role public libraries in the UK play.””
The Jubilee was wonderful but other countries see the UK as a warning
Jun 5th
Editorial
This week will go down in everyone’s memory as Platinum Jubilee week. Public libraries have played their part throughout the country, with flags, displays, coffee mornings and other events. An impressive number of librarians – no less than ten – have also been named in the Platinum Jubilee Honours. While there are arguments against as well as for Honours, I would argue that they at least boost the status of those holding them, which can be very useful.
I had the honour of speaking at the French library conference this week – due to my limitations online alas, rather than where it was taking place in Metz. While the cuts situation has apparently cooled off, for now at least, in many library services, it’s worth reminding ourselves that the UK is see as a warning for what could happen in many countries. The French librarians were anxious to learn about the situation and many were concerned that what happened here could happen there. And well they should. There have been one or two cases there of cuts recently. I remember the complacency of many librarians in the early 2000s. That has gone now in this country and those elsewhere would do well to learn what lessons there are from it.
Finally, well done to Knowsley, which becomes the 39th library service in the UK to go completely fines-free. For those wishing to know how it can be done, New Zealand has produced a toolkit on the subject, including case studies.
Changes by local authority
- Knowsley – Becomes fines-free.
- Monmouthshire – Caldicot Library being refurbished.
National news
- Are libraries open on Platinum Jubilee Bank Holiday? – The Sun. “t is likely that your library will be open at some point across the weekend, although running on shorter hours for the Queen’s Jubilee. If you have a very small local library then you may find the library is shut as employee numbers are minimal.”
- Fun Palaces: The Library Special – Fun Palaces. “In this podcast, we meet librarian Zoey Dixon who will tell you all about why Fun Palaces are so perfect suited to libraries.”
- Helping jobseekers help themselves – Arts Council England. “investigates how jobseekers use libraries, and the role library services play in improving employment outcomes. The report recommends that libraries should take actions such as coordinating their support for jobseekers with other forms of jobseeker support, and reinstating in-person support for jobseekers in libraries that was paused because of the pandemic.”
- Nine Scottish libraries to loan out musical instruments – West FM. “There will be six libraries from Edinburgh, two from North Ayrshire, and one from Fife all part of the new project.” … ““There’s a music group going to be associated with each library. So, there’ll be music classes and taster classes for young people to try it out. And we’ve also got the tinderbox online music school, where people can get online lessons for free.””
- Not as I like it! War Horse author Michael Morpurgo says Shakespeare plays ‘need a bit of editing’ – Mail Online. “Sir Michael said: ‘Libraries, and particularly the librarians who work in them, are vital for us all, but especially for those who need them most.’”
- PRH UK donates entire audiobook library to charity Calibre Audio – BookSeller. “Under the new partnership, around 6,000 titles as well as future releases will be made freely available to Calibre’s 16,000 members, who have a range of disabilities that make reading and understanding text difficult, including visual impairments, learning disabilities, cognitive impairments and physical dexterity conditions. Earlier this year, the service was made available to people with long Covid …”
- Refugee week and Libraries of Sanctuary – Libraries Connected. Monday 13 June, 2pm. “In this webinar we will have an update on support for Ukrainian newcomers from Larysa Bolton from the Association of Ukrainian Women in the UK, Julie Hayward from Book Trust, and a more general update on the Libraries of Sanctuary submission process from Ashley Beckett of City of Sanctuary.
- Thousands of UK public buildings now have gigabit broadband – Techradar Pro. “The figure includes 1,200 schools, 340 libraries and 50 hospitals …”
Queen’s Jubilee Birthday Honours
MBE
- Catherine Mann. Head of Libraries and Arts, Staffordshire County Council. For services to Public Libraries.
- Christine May. Head, Libraries at Bradford. For services to Public Libraries.
- Helen Joy Osborn. Lately Director of Library Services, Libraries NI. For services to Public Libraries.
- Susan Lesley Williamson. National Director, Libraries, Arts Council England. For services to the Library Sector.
- Susan Elizabeth Wills. Assistant Director, Lifelong Learning and Culture, Surrey County Council. For services to Public Libraries.
BEM
- Anthony Lambert Tyrrell Brown. Chair, Suffolk Libraries. For services to Public Libraries
- Christopher John Lawrey Clarke. Company Secretary and Treasurer, Friends of Jesmond Library. For services to the community in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
- Sorrelle Clements. Service Development Manager, Coventry Libraries. For services to Libraries.
- Susan Ann Comitti. Libraries and Heritage Service Manager, London Borough of Hackney. For services to Public Libraries.
- Robert John Jones. Library Service Manager, Isle of Wight Council. For services to Public Libraries.
- Emma Claire Noyce. Assistant Director, Culture and Information Services, Hampshire County Council. For services to Public Libraries during Covid-19.
- Bookworm and Arts Council boss Sue Williamson gets MBE for her work in the library service – Lancashire Post. Arts Council England director for public libraries.
- ‘Emma helped thousands of people access libraries during lockdown’ – Yahoo News. “Emma Noyce, 45, had only been in her post as Head of Hampshire’s Library Service for a year when Covid hit. After overseeing the closure of 48 libraries in just 24 hours, Emma quickly organised a team of staff to phone 500 vulnerable residents who would normally use the home library delivery service.” … “She then convinced senior leadership to invest in £100,000 worth of ebooks which resulted in an 84 per cent increase in daily loans.” … she “also inspired the digital library team to create an online timetable of events and activities including Baby Rhymetime, Story Time and bedtime stories, created on video by library staff. These were being watched more than 1,700 times a day.”
- Honours Week – Showcasing the best of the UK’s honours system – Cabinet Office.
- Islanders recognised for public service in Queen’s Birthday Honours list – Island Echo. “64-year-old Robert Jones from Rookley has been awarded a BEM for services to public libraries. Robert is the Isle of Wight Council’s Library Service Manager. Robert is an active member of the Libraries Connected regional network and was previously involved in the Association of Senior Children’s and Education Librarians. He represented public libraries nationally on the Prison Library Service Partnership Board.”
- ‘Lovely surprise’: Hackney’s long-serving libraries manager recognised in Queen’s honours – Hackney Citizen. Sue Comitti: ““Hackney’s given me my career,” she said as she reflected on the work that has led to her being awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queen’s Birthday honours. It includes the refurbishment of Hackney Central, Clapton and Shoreditch libraries, and helping generations of residents discover a treasure trove of books and activities.”
- Man who fought to save Beccles Library named in Queen’s Birthday Honours – Beccles and Bungay Journal. “Anthony Lambert Tyrrell Brown, known as Tony, has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) for his outstanding service to public libraries. The 67-year-old former chair of Suffolk Libraries initially started a campaign to save Beccles Library from closure, before becoming involved in a wider project to protect sites across the county. Mr Brown has been a member of the Suffolk Libraries board since 2013, including spending time as chair between 2013 and 2021.”
- Queen’s Jubilee birthday honours: Library manager gets BEM for autism work – BBC. “Sorrelle Clements is the Service Development Manager for Coventry Libraries and said “we’re not just about books”. She worked with parents of autistic children in the community to find ways to make library spaces more welcoming.”
International news
- Australia – One of Sydney’s most underrated treasures: our incredible libraries – Sydney Sentinel. “Rather than fork out hundreds of dollars a week for a co-working space where the fridge reeks and people get inordinately excited by ping pong, I get to work somewhere quiet and peaceful, with ample plug sockets and free WiFi. Membership is also free and entitles me to book private rooms to conduct phone calls and interviews. This, my friends, is why I pay my taxes.”
“As the UK closes libraries, we’re opening them in Sydney. And they look unlike any library I saw growing up in Britain, which were mostly dingy, unremarkable, cold and somewhat forgotten buildings.”
- Canada – Promoting Food Security in Public Libraries – Hamilton Public Library and McMaster University. “This project reviews relevant literature on food insecurity, investigates current food access initiatives in Hamilton, and outlines promising practices and initiatives from other Canadian public libraries to help inform HPL’s involvement in addressing food insecurity in Hamilton”
- Global – Odilo raises $64M as its white-label e-learning library passes 8,500 customers and 170M users – Yahoo. “Odilo has so far racked up 8,500 customers in 52 countries, covering some 170 million users in all, with the list including government bodies, libraries and education organizations like MIT, but also big corporate customers such as Google and Vodafone.”
- New Zealand – Removing Library Fines – Lianza. Excellent guide to how to remove fines including case studies. “Our toolkit helps libraries, councils and communities remove significant barriers to accessing trusted information, the joy of reading and connecting with others.”
- USA – Louisiana County Libraries Block Displays for Groups, Issues – Bloomberg. Libraries self-censor to avoid fighting. “Book displays targeting specific groups or topics such as Cajun heritage, Pride Month or Black History Month are prohibited indefinitely at public libraries in Louisiana’s Lafayette Parish, a newspaper reported.” … ““I’m doing this because everything’s a fight,” he said. “And if I put these books out right now, I feel like I am inviting people to challenge these books.””
- DC is sending 10,000 copies of DC Pride 2022 anthology to US libraries – Pop Verse. “DC is doing this in partnership with PFLAG National, the US’s largest organization supporting LGBTQIA+ people and their allies.”
- How Rural Librarian Jessamyn West is Alleviating the Digital Divide – The Slate. Podcast. “a librarian in rural Vermont who’s working to improve computer literacy and access to library services in her community.”
- Library, author, bookseller groups condemn legal action attempting to censor books in Virginia – ALA. “No book has been banned for obscenity in the United States in more than 50 years. Prohibiting the sale of books is a form of censorship that cannot be tolerated under the First Amendment.”
- Once More for Those in the Back—Libraries Are Not Neutral – Publishers Weekly. “In a February New York Times editorial, conservative opinion writer Stanley Kurtz took to task the efforts of what he called “woke” librarians and pleaded for a return to “neutrality” in libraries. What Kurtz got wrong, however, is that libraries are not–and have never been–neutral.”. Those arguing for censorship have argued that having LGBT books on shelves is like having bleach accessible for children on the bottom shelves of shops. Those wanting to ban books wants libraries not to be neutral but rather biased towards them, and not others.
Local news by authority
- Bolton – Big borough book hunt hailed a huge success – Bolton News. “Bolton Library hid Lenny Henry’s new book ‘The Boy With Wings’ across the borough for a chance to meet Lenny in June and hear all about the book.” … “”The book hunt was very successful, with a fantastic response on social media which resulted in hundreds of families’ searching high and low across Bolton’s for books”
- Cheshire West and Chester – Six-year-old lands first prize in Jubilee art competition – Northwich Guardian. “The competition was organised across Cheshire West and Chester libraries, with two aspects – one for poetry and another for art.”
- Coventry – Coventry reaches One Million Reads – Coventry Council. “The project, which has been running throughout the City of Culture year, set the ambitious target of counting 1,000,000 reads across the city. HRH Duchess of Cornwall launched the project and submitted the ‘first read’ back in May 2021. Now, in May 2022, that figure stands at a staggering 1,262,798. Reads have been counted across Coventry’s libraries, as well as at universities, schools, and workplaces.”
- Halton – Book your Jubilee fun at your library – News Anyway.
- Knowsley – No more library fines in Knowsley – Knowsley News. Includes amnesty for late books. ““I hope the end of late charges will mean more residents will take out a library membership, visit their local branch and discover all Knowsley libraries have to offer.””
- Lambeth – Lambeth Libraries – listing of events for June 2022 including the Children and Young People’s Readers and Writers Festival – Brixton Buzz.
- Leicester – City libraries take part in Big Jubilee Read – Leicester Council. Also “lots of displays, events and activities”
- Liverpool – Business support scheme at Liverpool Central Library sees record year and supports hundreds of entrepreneurs – Business Live. “The Business & IP Centre (BIPC) Liverpool City Region said it had a record year, supporting more than 1,500 people between April 2021 and March 2022 – up 39% on the previous year.”
- Manchester – Festival of Libraries: what’s on at the Greater Manchester event, when it is and how to get tickets – Manchester World. “The Manchester UNESCO City of Literature’s Festival of Libraries celebrates the 133 public libraries as well as heritage and independent collections of books across the city-region.”
- Monmouthshire – Refurbishment to close Caldicot library for six weeks – South Wales Argus. “Caldicot Library is celebrating 25 years of providing books, community spirit and support this year. To mark the milestone, Monmouthshire County Council will be rejuvenating the community hub building in which its based. The refurbishments include new flooring, re-painting and the creation of two new community rooms, making the space ready for its next quarter century. “
- Newcastle – Newcastle named among 10 best places to raise a family in the UK – here’s why – Chronicle Live. “The figures also highlighted the number of museums (17) and libraries (35) in the city.”
- North Yorkshire – Knaresborough library closes for bank work – The Press. “The project will see a new community branch of the Newcastle Building Society created within the library building. Executive member for libraries, Cllr Greg White, said: “We can’t wait for the community branch to open which will offer the Society’s full range of services.”
- Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire eBook Short Story Competition 2022 winners announced – Oxfordshire Council. “An unconventional sci-fi story, a magical tree and a much loved grandad are the subjects of the well-scripted tales that have been selected as winners of Oxfordshire County Council Library Service’s eBook Short Story Competition for 2022.”
- Southampton – Southampton library celebrates Platinum Jubilee with residents – Southern Daily Echo. Tea and scones, tree planting.
- Warrington – Summer Reading Challenge to take place at LiveWire Libraries – Warrington Guardian. “Young volunteers between the ages of 14 to 24 are needed to help with activities and events for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge”
- West Sussex – Library mural gives insight into children’s vision of the future in Crawley – West Sussex Council. “Crawley Library unveiled its new mural depicting what the future of Crawley looks like to local nine- and ten-year-olds. The library was able to offer a previously blank wall at the entrance of the Children’s Library to display this 6ft x 6ft vinyl mural permanently, inspired by a series of interactive workshops over several months.”
Going staff-less in 2022
May 29th
Editorial
It’s been a while since this post has covered staff-less libraries but three different mentions this week brings them to attention once again. Having library card and PIN entry to allow customers into libraries has been around more than a decade now. In the UK, this has been used both to extend hours and to replace paid staff, with the prevalence of one or the other being a useful weathervane for where the budgetary winds are blowing. So, it’s good to see that the two reported in the UK today appear to be aimed at extending hours rather than cutting staff costs. In the third mention since the last post, the technology is less conflicted – it’s in Australia, a country which has seen nothing like the budgetary pressures we have, and it’s seen an entirely good, indeed, an award-winning thing.
Changes by local authority
- North Somerset – Nailsea Library may move location.
National news
- Free Makerspace Starter Guide for Libraries – Artefacto. “Previously we have shared this publication with people attending our training or libraries we’ve worked with. But now we wanted to share it more widely to help libraries (and other cultural organisations) interested in launching or developing their own makerspace programme. “
- Joining up for the Jubilee – DCMS Libraries. A look at what public libraries are doing, funding and initiatives.
- Libraries are the ‘beating heart’ of a school – TES. “nestling deep in an Audit Scotland report this week was evidence that libraries are seen as fair game when times are hard. A stark series of bar graphs showed the difference between total public library opening hours before Covid and as at February 2022, in each of Scotland’s 32 local authorities.”
- Making the Most of National Events: A Toolkit for Public Libraries – Libraries Connected. “gives an overview of how to successfully engage with cultural events. Drawing on the experience and expertise of members of the Culture and Creativity Offer Group supported by Libraries Connected, the toolkit is full of ideas, top tips and templates for developing strategies and planning event activity.”
- Platinum Jubilee: War Horse author Morpurgo dedicates latest book to Queen – BBC. “Sir Michael said: “Libraries have been, and continue to be, a constant in our communities, our schools, and lives. “Libraries, and particularly the librarians who work in them, are vital for us all, but especially for those who need them most.”
- Psychosocial needs and the Public Library – University of Aberystwyth. “You are being invited to participate in a research study titled: How prepared are UK public library services to meet the psychosocial needs of their users? With a focus on staff perceptions and training. The term ‘psychosocial’ refers to the interrelated mental, emotional, and social needs of individuals.”
- Public Library Survey – UCL. “for my Library and Information Studies MA at UCL, I am looking into patron-perpetrated sexual harassment towards UK public librarians within the last 5 years.” …”The survey is completely anonymous and cannot be traced back to you or your workplace. “
- Refugee week and Libraries of Sanctuary – Libraries Connected. Webinar, Monday 13 June, 2pm. “In this webinar we will have an update on support for Ukrainian newcomers from Larysa Bolton from the Association of Ukrainian Women in the UK, Julie Hayward from Book Trust, and a more general update on the Libraries of Sanctuary submission process …”
- Updates on the Single Digital Presence – British Library. Currently concentrating on branding. Head of Delivery starts in June. see also Single Digital Presence for public libraries – British Library. “The current phase of funding (June 2021 – March 2024) will enable us to develop and test a public-facing version of the platform. £1.1 million of the funding is ring-fenced to help libraries in England with their digital offers.”
- Violence on the rise in British Libraries as shock figures lay bare UK’s ‘hubs of chaos’ – Mirror. “Shock figures show they were the scene of nearly 6,000 serious anti-social behaviour incidents in five years.” … “An ex-policeman who spent five years working in a North East library told us: “I was assaulted more times in there than in than in my 25 years in the force.” … “In some areas they are used as a contact point for social services, which is believed to have added to the risk of disturbances.”
- What it’s really like working in libraries – Socialist Party. “27 million books, 9,000 workers and 800 libraries cut by Tories”
International news
- Australia – Open book: Copper Coast library never shuts – In Daily. Card-entry / staff-less library.
- Colombia – ‘Legends are to be told’: Colombian library goes beyond books to keep stories alive – Guardian. “Atánquez’s Kankuaka library is more than just a space to house books, it is the centre of the indigenous people’s initiatives to preserve their history and strengthen their identity. A pavilion and mud-brick round houses behind the main building host community gatherings. Youth activities include the petroglyph outings, photography workshops and gatherings with tribal elders.”
- Sweden – The library – a bright spot? Biblioteket – en ljuspunkt? – Biblioteket tar saka #librarycase. “Time: Tuesday May 31, 2022, 17.00 pm -18.45 pm UTC +02:00 (time converter) Purpose: to show that – and how – the library can contribute to «sustainable development» and «global justice» and thus be «a bright spot». The workshop will be in English (the first Zoom part) and in Swedish (the following physical part). Both with time for discussions.”
- USA – Hillsdale to consider banning Harry Potter as library wars hit Michigan – Bridge Michigan. Complaints about too many books by Jewish and Black writers, one librarian resigns over paedophilia accusation, another looks to ban all Potter and LGBT titles. “Paladino said the “city’s library director has begun to fill the library with CRT, LGBT and sexually promiscuous books and displays.” Included as an example of books he felt were inappropriate for the library’s children’s section was a Harry Potter book, plus a book for young readers titled “How to Fight Racism,””. One librarian objected to because she is gay, with one comment being “Is she even Christian?”. Fears over censorship as complaints rise.
- Barnes and Noble being sued in Virginia Beach over “Gender Queer”, “A Court of Mist and Fury” – Bookriot. Some seek to censor books in bookshops as well as in libraries. Books accused of being pornographic when they’re not, with the accusers not having read them.
- Bigotry and Nationalism Launched Nazi Book Burning – EveryLibrary Action – EveryLibrary. Those wishing to ban books in the USA are mirroring the first censoring by the Nazis.
- If publishers have their way, libraries’ digital options will see major cuts – The Hill. “If a pending lawsuit by major American book publishers challenging its legal limits succeeds, controlled digital lending’s absence might be a lot more noticeable to a lot more people. It will be harder to borrow digital books and other materials from the growing number of libraries that practice controlled digital lending or some form of it. “
- Uvalde librarian thought about canceling storytime. Instead, she made it a refuge – NBC News. “Initially Mendell Morgan, the public library director, thought about closing on Wednesday, out of respect for those who’d lost their children. Ultimately he decided to keep the library open. At a time when librarians across the country have faced baseless allegations and threats of criminal charges from parents who’ve accused them of providing pornography to children, Morgan wanted to show the community what, in his view, a library really is. “
Local news by authority
- Bradford – Over 30 Jubilee themed events to be held at libraries – Telegraph and Argus. “Activities include tea and cake parties, art and craft sessions, rhyme and story time, a teddy bears picnic, a knit and natter session with karaoke, biscuit decoration, afternoon teas, book and film club evenings, a Children’s Royal Brunch and even a Queen’s Knickers Party.”
- Cumbria – Theatre nights and author talks hosted by Cumbria Libraries throughout June – Yahoo News. “Libraries are celebrating National Crime Reading Month with a series of murder mystery live theatre nights and author events featuring local crime writers.” Includes live streaming.
- Carlisle library to shut because ‘something has died’ on the roof – News and Star. ““It appears that something has died, probably a bird, in the roof space above us.”
- Devon – Queen’s Jubilee Exhibition: Huge collection makes debut at Barnstaple Library – North Devon Gazette. “The astonishing treasure trove of royal memorabilia is on loan from North Devon collector Sarah Grant”
- Library card music player – Crowdfunder. “We aim to build and install a library card music player into Exeter Library in time for the Summer Reading Challenge.”
- Essex – e-comics and creative writing help from Essex libraries – Saffron Walden Reporter. “A dedicated literacy area has opened at Stansted library this week. And similar dedicated literacy areas for libraries in Saffron Walden, Thaxted and Great Dunmow are due by the end of June. Dedicated literacy areas have materials to support reading and writing for adults and children, printable take-home resources, and creative writing prompts.”
- A library card for every child – Essex Council. “We want every child to experience the joy of reading. That’s why we’re giving every pupil in Essex a library card as part of our Essex Year of Reading campaign. Pupils will receive their library card and a campaign bookmark from their school. All they need to do is take it to any Essex Library to activate it and start borrowing. As well as access to thousands of books, Essex Libraries also offer e-books, e-audio and e-comics.”
- Gwynedd – Penygroes and Dyffryn Ogwen Libraries benefit from grant – North Wales Chronicle. ” libraries at Penygroes and Dyffryn Ogwen, Bethesda are set to benefit from £56,000 of Welsh Government funding, through the Capital Transformation Fund. The funding aims to help local libraries and museums to develop their facilities and services” … “A transformation grant will support the development of these two libraries in order to realise ambitious plans to develop Llyfrgell y Petha (the Library of Things) at both sites, as well as creating a virtual reality hub in Penygroes Library and wellbeing garden at Dyffryn Ogwen Library.”
- Hounslow – Share your local memories and help create a unique local history archive – Hounslow Council. “Showcasing some fascinating finds from the borough’s archives, every exhibition will be unique, focusing on the history of the area surrounding each library.”
- Leicester – Out-of-hours access to libraries tried out in pilot scheme – Leicester Council. “Library Plus has just launched at Knighton and Evington libraries. It means people will be able to access both libraries before and after standard staffed opening hours, from Monday to Friday.”
- Manchester – Celebrating Manchester’s world class libraries – Manchester City of Literature. “Manchester City of Literature’s Festival of Libraries returns in 2022. This county-wide celebration of Greater Manchester’s 133 libraries will take place from Wednesday 15th to Sunday 19th June, 2022.”
- There’s Something for Everyone in our Brand-New North City Library – Manclibraries Blog. “Following a bright new refresh, North City Library in Harpurhey is really upping its game with a packed programme of fun and inclusive activities for all ages. “
- Middlesbrough – E-magazine regional first for Middlesbrough Libraries – Middlesbrough Council. “The service is the first in the North East to add eMagazines to its exceptionally popular Borrowbox service offering readers online versions of a range of popular publications including Good Food and Gardeners’ World”
- Newport – The Newport library that inspired a huge Welsh rock hit – South Wales Argus. ” this anthemic tribute to working-class culture was inspired by a building in one of Newport’s oldest working-class communities.” … “the former Pill Library is one of Newport’s most historic buildings, dating back to 1889.”. Library is now a community centre.
- North Somerset – Talks on future of Nailsea library could see it demolished – Somerset Live. “Nailsea Library could be demolished to make way for a new development. North Somerset Council has launched a consultation on the future of the library in Somerset Square as part of development plans for the district. The council has confirmed it is now looking at moving the library to another location in the town and is considering alternative uses for the site.”
- North Yorkshire – Join the Platinum Jubilee celebrations at your local library – North Yorkshire Council. “Children who borrow two books from Saturday, May 28, to Saturday, June 11, will be entered into a prize draw to win a copy of author Michael Morpurgo’s new book, There Once is a Queen: A Stunning Poetic Celebration of Queen Elizabeth. Harrogate library is hosting the regional Libraries Connected event, Twixt t’Covers, that will be live-streamed to audiences across the nation …”
- Nottingham – Approval for new Central Library will see work start within months – My Nottingham News. “The replacement for the old Central Library on Angel Row will be ready to open to the public next summer after the work to turn the building into a modern library has been completed.” … “A new Central Library is one of the key elements of the regeneration of the city’s Southside area. ” … ““We know from the consultation that Central Library is well-used and well-liked by local people, and I’m particularly pleased with the focus on the children’s library which create up-to-date facilities for families to enjoy.””
- New Nottingham library £10.5m funding package approved – BBC. £10.5m. “The building, part of the wider Broadmarsh development, is currently a shell attached to a multi-storey car park. An opening date had been pushed back due to the pandemic and financial pressures on the city council.”
- Nottinghamshire – Library in Burton Joyce to be refurbished and transformed into ‘village hub’ – Gedling Eye. £170k from DCMS/ACE.
- Oldham – Oldham library hosts pyjama bedtime story night – Oldham Times. “The early evening event, scheduled from 5.30 pm on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, is encouraging families and children under five to come along to Oldham library for a cosy bedtime story. The library will offer toast and milk while a storyteller works to bring stories and soothing songs to life.”
- Slough – Slough Borough Council faces assets sell-off after bankruptcy – BBC. “It said the council needed to sell up to £600m of its £1.2bn of assets to reduce its debt. This places a risk on the town’s libraries, children’s centres, community hubs and housing stock transfer to be sold off …”
- South Lanarkshire – Lanarkshire library launches new project to unite communities – Daily Record. “The New Memories project has been rolled out across Scotland” … “The project will use old images and materials to start a conversation among Memory Group participants, as well as having access to local collections via the Memories Scotland archive.”
- Stockport – Get ready to celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Weekend with Stockport Libraries – Stockport Council. ““The Jubilation Station project is the perfect opportunity to become a real part of history, and have a tangible souvenir of your involvement in the Jubilee weekend.””
- Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries extend free menstrual product scheme – East Anglian Daily Times. “It is also in talks with Norfolk and Essex Libraries to support the imminent extension of the scheme across the whole of the East of England.”
- Warwickshire – Visit Warwickshire Libraries this month and enjoy a whole range of Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations for all ages – Warwickshire Council. ” Upcoming activities hosted by Warwickshire Libraries range from livestreams, virtual events, and displays of local royal connections and memories, to jubilee biscuits and getting involved in The Big Jubilee Read.”
- Wigan – Heritage celebrated in Wigan library renovation – Wigan Today. “Wigan Council has undertaken a programme of work to improve the historic Ashton library including refurbishment of the community room and restoration of the original parquet floor after the library had to be temporarily closed as a result of dry rot while work was undertaken which included roof works, joinery, plastering, flooring and painting. A transformation of the library’s lay-out has also been completed to provide a more flexible use of space for events and activities …”
- Worcestershire – Stourport Library gets longer hours due to new technology – Express and Star. “From Monday, June 6, Stourport Library customers can upgrade to free Libraries Unlocked membership and use their library card to visit the library outside normal opening hours, when staff are not present.”
Here to stay?
May 22nd
Editorial
There’s been enough time since Austerity started in 2010 to note some long-term results in the sector. Suffolk Libraries celebrates ten years as a Library Trust this year. It seems to be going well and certainly most of what I see from that service is good and positive. The other library trusts – notably York Explore and Libraries Unlimited (Devon) – also seem to be doing well. Leisure trusts have had a more mixed picture, with Falkirk, Northamptonshire, Peterborough and Wigan all having to return to council control due to various problems. Others have suffered during lockdown – leisure trusts rely on income from leisure centres etc – but have survived.
But the real standout has been volunteer libraries. Focusing just on longevity and not getting distracted by other issues, then the thing one notices is how few have failed in the last decade. Just one or two out of out of the (probably) over 600 have had to close over the time. And some of the first in Buckinghamshire have been open over fifteen years now. That’s a surprising survival rate compared to expectations in 2010 where it was assumed many would not be round for long. It suggests, rather, that they may be here to stay.
Changes by local authority
- Sheffield – Stocksbridge Library to move into new co-location
- Stoke on Trent – Cuts in opening hours reversed after consultation
Floating or dynamic stock.
I recently asked on Twitter if library services use a floating stock system. This is where books are kept at the library where they end up (for example, for reservations) rather than send them back to a “home” library. See this page for some more info on this. The responses on Twitter totalled 4 doing dynamic and 20 doing static. A couple of others do a hybrid system where receiving library keeps the book if they want it, send it back if not.
Comments:
- Several library services have moved to static stock as it lead to build-up in some branches. On the other hand, it was reported that floating stock automatically moves books around and so refreshes libraries without any extra work (indeed, less work as they’re not returned back) and increases serendipity.
- Some do a mixed system: for example “We keep them but send them back if less than two years old” and “we send non-fiction back for special collections but keep fiction if we have a stock gap”
- New Zealand said poorer areas lose out if dynamic because wealthier borrowers reserve all the books.
National news
- £750,000 funding announced to boost libraries and museums in Wales – Wales 247. “The funding, which will be delivered as part of the Transformation Capital Grant Scheme, will support Wales’ local libraries, museums, to develop and revitalise their facilities, with a particular focus on widening access, partnership working, decarbonisation, and developing sustainable services.”
- Arts Council future under review by government – BookSeller. “The review will look to identify a minimum of 5% savings for each organisation.”
- Bookbug Week aims to inspire ‘an early love of books’ – The National. “Bookbug, Scottish Government funding for which over 2022/23 has been increased by £1.7 million, is developed in partnership between the national literature and literacy charity the Scottish Book Trust, local authorities, libraries, children’s publishers and health trusts across the nation, and provides free books to every baby, toddler, three and five-year-old in Scotland.”
- Five tips to enhance your institution’s civic engagement by working with public libraries – Times Higher Education Campus. “Good two-way public engagement can connect communities, inspire learning and stimulate curiosity. So what better partner than libraries to support higher education institutions to engage the public with their work and build on civic engagement strategies?”
- Green Libraries – CILIP. “CILIP has announced the Arts Council England funded Green Libraries Partnership, a multiyear research and development programme to enable public libraries in England to address Environmental Responsibility.”. Various links and events.
- Handbook of Library Appliances – Library Association / Project Gutenberg. 1898 handbook to what library furniture is available and how to use it. Fascinating [and disturbing – I recognise some of this furniture – Ed.]
- How well do you know your libraries? Quiz – OUP Blog. “Were you born to be a librarian? Are you a library fan? Or do you just like a bit of trivia? Whatever your reason it’s time to prove to us how well you know your libraries with this short quiz.” [I only got 4 out of 8 so I guess the jury is still out on me – Ed.]
- Libraries Connected publishes draft accreditation scheme for public libraries – Libraries Connected. “Libraries Connected has now embarked on the next stage in the process: identifying a sponsoring body that can manage, assess and promote the public library accreditation scheme.”
- Opportunity to Tender: Impact and Evaluation of Public Library Services in East of England – Libraries Connected. “We are looking for an expert individual or agency who can lead research on the social value of libraries “
International news
- Australia – National Simultaneous Storytime coming soon – Libraries Connected. ” Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops, and many other places around the country. ”
- ‘I want to change the country’: Albanese – Sydney Morning Herald. “Marrickville Library became a backdrop to tooting car horns, dozens of selfies and several rounds of applause this morning as Anthony Albanese made his first appearance in his inner-west Sydney electorate since winning the election last night.”
- Global – Recent Report from IFLA: How well did copyright laws serve libraries during COVID-19? – IFLA. “The short answer to this question from a report recently published by IFLA appears to be: not very well at all. The report documents a worldwide survey of 114 libraries, 83% of which said they had copyright-related challenges providing materials during pandemic-related facility closures. “
- A Brief History of Library Cats – Mental Floss.
- USA – Texas librarians face harassment as they navigate book bans – Texas Tribune. “Librarian Suzette Baker said she faced a hard choice last year when her boss asked her to hide a book on critical race theory behind the counter.” … “She spoke up, telling her supervisors that the library was facing a censorship attack.” … “Baker was fired for insubordination”. Others “have already quit, and others are considering it.”
- Idina Menzel and Cara Mentzel get loud for libraries as honorary chairs of Library Card Sign-up Month 2022 – ALA. ” Tony Award-winning performer, actress, singer-songwriter, and philanthropist Idina Menzel and her sister, author and educator Cara Mentzel, have been named honorary chairs of Library Card Sign-Up Month.”
- Libraries Help Veterans Transition to Civilian Life – EveryLibrary. “… there is no one-size-fits-all veteran archetype. Veterans are found at nearly every demographic level of America. They and their families have long found libraries to be great resources when they move somewhere new, a one-stop-shop of community information and events to help them adjust. So, libraries want to continue offering support beyond the term of duty.”
Local news by authority
- Bedford – Town Centre Jubilee Trail Launches Today – Bedford Council. “Bedford Central Library will be hosting talks on royal visits to Bedford and royal occasions in Bedford with a local historian, and displaying items with a royal theme from the Heritage Library collection during an open morning.”
- Bolton – Queen’s Platinum Jubilee – this is how Bolton will be celebrating – Bolton News. Library ” tea parties, crafts, and story time.”
- Bradford – Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan to attend Sisterhood poetry event in Bradford – Telegraph and Argus. “Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan – a writer, poet and educator born in the city – is attending the Sisterhood Poetry open mic night at Bradford Libraries.”
- Cheshire West and Chester – Ellesmere Port library to welcome ‘Five Days Missing’ author – Standard. Caroline Corcoran at Little Sutton Library.
- Ellesmere Port Library celebrate 60th anniversary – Standard. Events included the Council Leader reading at a class visit, the local mayor cutting a cake at an anniversary coffee morning and a murder mystery in the evening.
- Cornwall – Cornwall Libraries work with Living Memories Online for Jubilee – Packet. “Living Memories Online is working alongside Cornwall Libraries to ‘bring the past to life’ by showcasing a collection of archive films that show life and historical moments over the decades, as part of the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations.”
- Coventry – Carved reading bench to get people in Coventry reading – BBC. “It was commissioned by the city’s library service as part of the One Million Reads campaign, which is aiming to get people in Coventry to read 1,000,000 books by the end of May.” … “There are eight audio recordings saved in the bench, totalling around eight minutes in total and she said it was “beautiful when you see it.””
- Devon – Our library really is the jewel in Ottery’s crown – Sidmouth Herald. The recent history of the library, including its move to new premises. “Undoubtedly the Ottery library is what we could call a real ‘success story’ with its Information Office and public toilets all under the same roof, full disable access and meeting the requirements of all members of the local community with their wide range of activities.”
- Essex – Memory Cafe opens in Harwich Library for dementia patients – Clacton and Frinton Gazette. “The new space has been opened in Harwich Library, in Kingsway, Dovercourt, and will be available to anyone affected by the condition, their loved ones or care partners.”
- Falkirk – Larbert Library to host fun day for all the family – Falkirk Herald. “”Our ‘Libraries are for Everyone’ fun day is the perfect chance for people who have never been to the library, or haven’t used us in a while, to find out all the great stuff we do. We want everyone to know that libraries are welcoming, free and that they’re definitely not the quiet places they used to be.””
- Flintshire – Events across Aura Libraries in Flintshire – The Leader. Mindfulness, Makaton and Mama G.
- Glasgow – Glasgow Southside library to close for ten weeks as repairs planned – Glasgow Live. £183k repairs. It will return to pre-pandemic hours when reopened.
- Leeds – New installation and free activities at Leeds Central Library bring to life the fascinating story of the Cottingley Fairies – News Anyway. “As well as the installation, there will be a programme of events and art workshops with a fairy theme for both adults and children.”
- Nationally known poets at Otley’s celebration of verse – Wharfedale Observer. “The scheme, curated by the official Town Poet, Matthew Hedley Stoppard, was a season-long festival of poetry in partnership with Otley Town Council, Prince Henry’s Grammar School, Leeds Libraries, Leeds City Council and Otley Courthouse, and boasted a variety of literary activity.”
- Manchester – Free copies of Lenny Henry’s children’s book hidden around Greater Manchester as part of library festival – Manchester Evening News. “Copies of The Boy With Wings are being hidden in various locations until May 22, with clues released by libraries to give families a headstart.”
- Norfolk – Norfolk’s US Military heritage celebrated at American Library grand re-opening – Norfolk Council. “The American Library, based in Norwich’s Millennium Library, has undergone a transformation to bring the history of the 2nd Air Division to a new generation.”
- Northamptonshire – Mixed fortunes for county’s at-risk libraries – NN Journal. “Raunds Community Library Trust says another organisation has lodged an objection to the plans due to the way the council has handled the process. “
- Latest chapter in Raunds Library saga as council U-turn opens bidding process – Northamptonshire Telegraph. “An announcement that a volunteer-run community library threatened with closure had formed a partnership with an educational trust has sparked a bidding war for the building and service.”
- Northamptonshire LibraryPlus is delighted to announce the relaunch of Study Happy for 2022 – North Northamptonshire Council. “Starting in May, libraries across the county will provide dedicated areas and tailored resources for students to help them in their productivity and support their wellbeing. As well as free Wi-Fi and tablet use, the libraries will have a selection of stationery, and refreshments available, together with a variety of relaxing activities for revision breaks including games, fidget toys and even play dough.”
- North Yorkshire – Scarborough Library Asks “What Would Make You Use it More?” – This is the Coast. “The library team conducted an initial survey in the library and on social media, asking people what three things they wanted to see. The many suggestions covered accessibility, reading and study spaces, activities, exhibitions, meeting spaces, facilities for young people and much more. With these suggestions as a starting point, the library has launched a follow-up survey to learn people’s priorities for how they want to use the space and layout of the library.”
- Nottingham – Campaigners say threatened community libraries should be funded ahead of Central Library – West Bridgford Wire. “A campaigner fighting proposals to close three Nottingham libraries is ‘over the moon’ after the city council confirmed an opening date for the new central library – but said the services up for closure should be funded first instead.”
- New pictures of £10.5 million Nottingham Central Library as opening announced – West Bridgford Wire. “Careful management of the city’s property portfolio and successful sales have made the development affordable from within the Council’s capital programme.”
- Popular poet in Bulwell to speak against library closure plans – Dispatch. Henry Normal “Henry stressed that libraries were important focal points for local communities and he added that every book enabled the reader to immerse himself in a world of knowledge and imagination.
- Work to start on new £10.5 million Nottingham library this summer, council announces – Nottingham Post. “the library would consist of three floors and include an extensive book collection, high-quality children’s library with a storytelling room, as well as a café and a reception area which can be converted into a performance space.”
- Portsmouth – Portsmouth chosen for first live-streamed reading of Michael Morpurgo’s new book for Queen’s Jubilee – Portsmouth City Council. “Best-selling children’s author Michael Morpurgo will read his brand-new book written for The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, via a live-stream from Portsmouth Central Library, from 10.45am – 11.45am on Monday 23 May 2022.”
- Portsmouth pupils have the chance to meet author and Blue Peter star Konnie Huq at a special event – The News. “The TV star will attend a Reading Sparks event at Portsmouth Central Library on May 26”
- Powys – Free iPads will help residents get online – My Newtown. “The ‘internet ready’ iPads are available to borrow for four weeks at a time. Each iPad holds a sim card with a mobile data allowance for anyone without a home Wi-Fi connection.”
- Sheffield – Competition launched to name Stocksbridge’s new town centre hub building – Welcome To Stocksbridge. “One of the key projects in the £24.1 million plan for Stocksbridge is to build a new Library and Community Hub building which will house a range of facilities, including high quality, managed workspace.”
- Carnegie Letters (part one) – Reading Sheffield. The origins of Tinsley Library.
- Stoke on Trent – Council U-turn over Stoke-on-Trent library opening times in £280k shake-up – Stoke on Trent Live. “Plans to slash library opening times compared to pre-pandemic levels have been revised – following public opposition. Stoke-on-Trent City Council had proposed to reduce the opening hours of its six libraries, among a raft of other changes, saving £280,000 as part of this year’s budget cuts. During a public consultation on the proposals 60 per cent of people said they did not agree with the proposed opening hours – although most supported the overall strategy. Much of the opposition came from users of Bentilee Library, which was set to be cut to just two days a week under the original proposals, as was Meir Library.Now council leaders have amended the plans in light of the consultation responses. While the overall opening hours across the six libraries will be similar to what was originally proposed, Bentilee and Meir libraries have seen their hours increase”
- Suffolk – Corrin and friends from Chantry group complete cycling adventure for good cause – Ipswich Star. “Members of the Chantry Library’s Men’s Group completed a 300-mile cycling trip and raised more than £500 to support Suffolk Libraries. Corrin Eaton, a founding member of the Men Can Talk social group at the Chantry Library, and others completed a three-day biking and camping adventure which started from Chantry Library and covered 44 libraries across Suffolk.”
- Dubrovnik library returns long-lost book to UK library after almost 64 years – Dubrovnik Times.
- West Sussex – New reminiscence packs added to West Sussex Library Service collection during Dementia Action Week – West Sussex County Council. “The new reminiscence packs will be available from Friday, 20 May, as Dementia Action Week draws to a close.”
- York – Clifton Explore Library Learning Centre Development – York Explore. “A new Explore Library Learning Centre at the heart of Clifton, Where you come in wanting one thing, but go out with so much more. A friendly, accessible, safe space, where you will always feel welcome, A library with great books to borrow, the place you meet up with friends, A workspace with Wi-Fi connection, a place to learn something new, A flexible venue for events and groups, hobbies and meetings, A place you can trust for advice when life changes or challenges you. Help us to create your library in Clifton shaped by your needs.”
Choosing the correct future
May 15th
Editorial
I was listening to a podcast while walking the Schnausers this morning on the history of libraries. What do you mean, you already knew I was a library nerd? Anyway, a few good points stuck out from it. One was that a public library without books becomes a council community centre or social work building, and not a library. And, another related point, was that printed books appear to be here to stay despite repeated predictions to the contrary – remember the extinction timeline that said the last public library would close in 2019? The book has already seen off microfilm and CD-ROM as challenges and it looks reasonably certain now that the latest contender for the extinction-event for the printed page – eBooks – is instead a complementary technology. So that’s good for us that like printed books but less so for those who appear to think that the future of libraries is entirely without them. A point that stuck with me was that public libraries try to plan for the future but, because no-one can know what it looks like, often end up planning for the wrong one. So perhaps keep hold of those paperbacks for now. Also, another thing that sprung to mind was that a thing one can be fairly certain that the fines-free movement is on the right side of history. One hopes that more services will be able to afford it soon.
Finally, well done to Scottish libraries which took part in the “Keep the heid and read” campaign , which has resulted in over 456 thousand minutes or reading being pledged. It’s a fine example of a national publicity campaign. Such campaigns have also been successful in Ireland but, for some reason (the one often cited is that the country is too big), have not been a factor in England as yet.
Changes by local authority
National news
- Artefacto announced to develop ‘Digital Leadership for Libraries’ eLearning modules – CILIP. “Artefacto will work with CILIP, and a team of sector experts, to develop five open-access eLearning modules as part of ‘Digital Leadership for Libraries’. These modules are intended to create engagement with the principles and values of being a digital leader.”
- CILIP Conference – CILIP. “It’s back and we are so looking forward to seeing the library and information community come together face-to-face under the same roof on 7+8 July in Liverpool.”
- Cultural venues to receive £128 million to improve access to arts and culture – Gov.uk. “Local library services to be improved with £15.5 million Libraries Improvement Fund”. “will transform library services in England by helping them upgrade their buildings and improve digital infrastructure. Local authorities can bid for the money on behalf of their library services.”
- Director, Libraries, Arts Council England – Arts Council England. Vacancy. “You will also have national leadership and accountability for libraries, leading a team of specialist staff and Relationship Managers distributed across the country and helping to shape and deliver their policy work.”
- Duchess Camilla takes on patronage from Prince Philip – Geo.tv. Book Aid International. “Duchess Camilla is very well known for her personal love of reading, for championing the importance of books and for supporting causes promoting reading and literacy for all.”
- Empathy Day – Empathy Lab. 9 June. “You’re invited to join our sixth annual celebration on 9 June 2022. Help us to grow our powerful new book-based empathy movement and inspire children and young people to learn more about empathy, have transformational experiences through stories and put empathy into action. Our aim is to reach over 1 million children a year by 2026.”
- Government Property Agency – Libraries Connected. Webinar, Thursday 26 May, 1pm. “The GPA is looking to make Public Libraries their preferred option for spaces to meet, work and hold events”
- Libraries: Supporting new arrivals – Libraries Connected. “With the help of Dr Ludmila Pekarska, Shevchenko Library and Archive and The Association of Ukrainian Women in Great Britain, we have put together two leaflets – one in English and the other in Ukrainian – which libraries can print off to help anyone seeking vital public services. “
- Platinum Jubilee book to arrive in primary schools from mid-May – Gov.uk. [Confirmed via email that this will not be distributed to public libraries or home educated – Ed.]
- Succession star Brian Cox backs ‘Keep the Heid and Read’ campaign – STV. “‘Keep the Heid and Read’ has been backed by Succession star Brian Cox and is helping to highlight the positive impact reading can have on mental health and wellbeing. Run by the Scottish libraries and Information Council, it’s encouraging everyone to donate six minutes of their time a day to reading.” see also Pop-up library at The Kelpies becomes massive success ahead of ‘national reading moment’ – Daily Record and Renfrewshire residents urged to read for six minutes – Gazette.
- UKeiG 2022 Members’ Day and Annual General Meeting by Zoom – CILIP. 9 June 1pm, Zoom. Includes “The library technology ecosystem- where we are now and what does the future hold?” by Ken Chad.
- Welcome to National Crime Reading Month – Crime Reading. “Run by the Crime Writers’ Association in partnership with national charity The Reading Agency, NCRM is a festival that takes place throughout June across the UK and Ireland, culminating in the prestigious CWA Daggers ceremony at the end of the month.”
International news
- Ukraine – Opinion: Attacks on libraries and theatres are a chilling front in Russia’s war – Yahoo News. “It might seem bizarre to bomb a quiet house of books, or crush Kharkiv’s historical tram depot, which is a bit like shelling the London Transport Museum. But Russia knows well how important arts and culture are to a nation’s sense of self.”
- USA – Librarians push back against book-banning – Salon. “The goal of Unite Against Book Bans—which also includes the Authors Guild and prominent publishers such as Penguin Random House and Simon & Schuster—is “to empower individuals and communities to fight censorship and protect the freedom to read,” according to the ALA.”
- Conservative parents take aim at library apps meant to expand access to books – NBC News. Objections to online e-book providers such as Overdrive not censoring the free eBooks provided to children and others. [In an ultimate act of irony, one library board has banned the Handmaid’s Tale]
Local news by authority
- Coventry – Libraries as digital inspirers – Arts Professional. “By taking VR to libraries, we can democratise this cutting-edge technology and its immersive content, offering it to audiences who might never otherwise have a chance to experience it. Libraries have proved a perfect space for people to enjoy VR – a place where they feel safe and are willing to try something new, and where librarians are trusted guides, able to encourage people and provide a human touch to the experience. This project has proven that there’s certainly an appetite for it.”
- Devon – Exeter Library Lates – Libraries Connected. “A specially curated late-night event, live from Exeter Library. Each Library Lates weaves live music, theatre, and film imaginatively throughout the building, showing you a side to the library you may not have seen before.”
- East Dunbartonshire – Popular digital learning sessions return to local libraries – East Dunbartonshire Council.
- East Riding – Children and families can celebrate the Platinum Jubilee in East Riding Libraries – East Riding Council.
- Fife – Story time in Lochgelly as community campfires take place – Central Fife Times. “Lochgelly is one of four Scottish communities chosen to host a five-day storytelling event run by the national charity, Scottish Book Trust. The Community Campfires project will invite local residents to celebrate the people, places and events that make their town special.”
- Havering – Investigation launched after secret proposal to sell off libraries and community halls leaked – Romford Recorder. “At a meeting on January 24, Conservative councillors heard libraries, community centres, Green Belt and car parks could make way for more than 1,300 new homes, raising £70m. The papers were anonymously mailed to opposition candidates last month.” … “Four libraries were also on the list, of which one would not be replaced. The council spokesperson noted the report was only put forward for discussion and no decisions have been made.”
- Hertfordshire – Platinum Jubilee Celebrations in Hertfordshire Libraries – Hertfordshire Council.
- My Story Festivals come to Hertfordshire Libraries – Hertfordshire Council. “Join us at Watford Central Library on Sunday 29 May and find out more about the My Story project, view an exhibition of the artwork and watch short films produced by participants. We will also be holding ticketed events and activities through-out the day, which will include family theatre and interactive poetry.”
- Highland – Keep the Heid and Read campaign encourages people to read – Inverness Courier. “High Life Highland is challenging people to send in a picture of them reading any text of choice.”
- Isle of Man – Isle of Man libraries charity gets five-year government backing – BBC. “The government has agreed to pay the charity annual sums totalling £475,000 until 2026, when the support will end. It comes after existing taxpayer funding for the libraries had been due to run out in June. Charity director Kurt Roosen said the “pragmatic and structured solution” would allow time to plan ahead. But he warned the libraries now needed to raise “increasing amounts each year” from other sources. Half of their annual running costs of about £250,000 has been covered by temporary government grants since 2017. The remainder has been met through donations and substantial support from the founders of Manx-based online gambling firm PokerStars, the Scheinberg family, who stepped in 2012 after full state-backing was pulled.”
- Lancashire – The Harris to receive Arts Council England’s Capital Investment Programme funding – Preston City Council. “This award will be used to support upgrades to the Special Exhibitions Galleries “
- Manchester – Festival of Libraries: Sir Lenny Henry announced to lead Manchester celebration of books’ campaign – Manchester World. “The Look For A Book campaign will involve a mass participation search for copies of the TV comedian and presenter’s children’s book hidden all over the city-region.”
- Norfolk – National Centre for Writing and Norfolk library service get arts funds – BBC. “Norfolk’s public library service has also been awarded £159,410 from the same Arts Council programme. It will be used by the county council to fund an electric vehicle to deliver resources to schools, hospitals, and care settings.”
- ‘I come to the library to keep warm’: Norfolk residents battling fuel poverty – Guardian. “This winter the library introduced free Keep Warm and Go bags packed with everything someone may need who was struggling to keep the cold away, including gloves, thermals, a scarf, blanket and a hat.”. Member of public says ““I only have the heating and hot water on for an hour in the morning and then I get out in the garden and dig,” she said. “I go to bed early with an electric blanket. If I didn’t have that it would be terrible.”
- North Yorkshire – Yorkshire dialect revisited for libraries and museums project – North Yorkshire Council. “The public can join officers from the dialect and heritage project at a series of drop-in events.”
- Readers continue to take advantage of thriving home library service – North Yorkshire Council. “The service began to flourish during the coronavirus pandemic when libraries were forced to shut their doors. The highest monthly total was recorded in March 2021 when 1,065 households were receiving regular deliveries. Although the county’s libraries resumed a full service last year, staff and volunteers have continued to go the extra mile for vulnerable and hard-to-reach residents.”
- Nottingham – Completion of multi-million pound central library in Nottingham to be detailed ‘later this month’ – Nottingham Post. “Proposals to finally fit-out the multi-million pound central library in Nottingham are to be detailed ‘later this month’. Fears however do remain over the future of three neighbourhood libraries which are still facing closure.” … “Councillor Eunice Campbell-Clark, former portfolio holder for leisure and culture who represents Bulwell Forest, says the council will act to be “fully transparent” in its discussions over the future of the libraries. She said: “We have received in total 2,807 individual consultation submissions.”
- Nottinghamshire – Fears over Hucknall Library’s future again raised at county council – Dispatch. “Coun Jason Zadrozny (Ash Ind), was speaking at a full council meeting on May 12 of Nottinghamshire County Council, where he leads the Independent Alliance, and said he had ‘concrete evidence’ discussions had taken place about relocating Hucknall library services from their current town centre location to the proposed new Cavell health centre for the town.”
- Powys – Brecon councillors welcome transferal of old library to college group – Brecon and Radnor Express. “The old Ship Street Library and Watton Mount have both been transferred from Powys council to the NPTC college group with the aim of turning them into a campus for the town centre.”
- iPads now available to borrow from Powys libraries – Brecon and Radnor Express. “Powys residents can borrow an iPad for free, from their local library, thanks to support from the Welsh Government Circular Economy Fund. Devices are available to members of the Powys library service aged 18+ and must be booked in advance.”
- Slough – Slough libraries set to host events to celebrate Platinum Jubilee – Slough Express.
- Staffordshire – Libraries in Lichfield and Burntwood give people the chance to join Big Jubilee Read – Lichfield Live.
- Suffolk – Long-lost library book returned from Croatia to Ipswich… 64 years late – ITV.
- Somerset – Free creative writing workshops start at Burnham-On-Sea library – Burnham On Sea. Creative writing.
- Surrey – Eleven libraries announce Jubilee Big Lunches – Surrey News / Council. “To ensure that everyone has a chance to get in on the Big Lunch fun – Surrey libraries have organised some Big Lunches in selected libraries to enable people to get together. “
- Warrington – Health walks a breath of fresh air for Padgate and Culcheth Libraries – Warrington Worldwide. “A qualified Wellbeing Walk leader meets walkers at the selected meeting point and guides them through a pre-planned route. Remember, sturdy footwear, a bottle of water and water-proof clothing is essential for walking. All walks are designed for a wide range of abilities but they may include muddy and uneven ground or stiles”
- Wiltshire – Wiltshire libraries celebrate Local and Community History Month – White Horse News.
- Worcestershire – Get together starting at Bromsgrove library for Ukrainians settling in the district and their hosts – Bromsgrove Standard. “Ukrainian Connections will take place every Monday from 2pm to 4pm at Bromsgrove Library. The friendly drop-in sessions will give the Ukrainians and their hosts the chance to have a chat over a hot drink.”
Local elections
May 8th
Editorial
Local elections have resulted in a several changes of control, with perhaps the most significant one for libraries being in Barnet, which has experienced a lot of cuts over the years, has changed from Conservative to Labour. It will be interesting to see if this results on any changed to libraries. Pulling back to see the bigger picture, the results suggest that the Conservatives are increasingly vulnerable, making possible a Labour (and thus higher spending on public services) government is at least possible this decade.
Change-wise, one more library service going fines-free, with 38 now not charge any late fees in the UK, two branches have had an extension of opening hours, one had had a refurbishment and a last library is moving into a new co-location. So on the face of it no bad news there. Across the water, the campaign by some to turn the USA into something close to The Handmaid’s Tale continues with moves to censor what library users are allowed to read.
Changes by local authority
- Kent – Tunbridge Wells Library in new Amelia Scott Centre, co-location
- Perth and Kinross – Fines-free
- Stockport – Adswood and Bridgehall Libraries open on Saturdays.
- West Berkshire – Thatcham Library to be refurbished.
National news
- BIC’s EDI for Libraries Half-Day Training Course (online) – Book Industry Communication Ltd. Webinar, 19 may, 2pm to 5pm.
- CILIP Library and Information Supplier Showcase – Spring 2022 – CILIP. 12 May, London.
- Communicate Your Library’s Value through Partnerships – Infobase. Webinar, Wednesday 18 May 8pm. “You know how much your library has to offer. But does your community? The secret isn’t marketing—it’s partnership. In this webinar, Dr. Audrey Barbakoff, an experienced public library leader and founder of Co/Lab Capacity, will discuss how to co-create services and programs that will authentically engage and inspire your community.”
- Partnership between DMU and UK libraries ensures more young people learn about the legacy of murdered teenager Stephen Lawrence – De Montfort University. “The landmark Library of Birmingham – Europe’s biggest public library – is being lit up in orange in honour of Stephen, while all 16 libraries across Leicester have book displays of titles that celebrate diversity and a positive vision for the future.”
- Who is using public libraries’ digital collections in England? – Kevin J Bolton Ltd. “The study demonstrates that in terms of SEC, education level, age, and ethnicity that those using digital collections are not as representative as those who visit in person. Therefore, library services need to think carefully about developing their digital services to reach a broader range of people.” … “The study also demonstrates the importance of visiting a library during childhood on adult library use.” … “, this study shows the importance of going beyond descriptive statistics and using inferential statistical analyses to understand library use.”
International news
- USA – Nashville library introduces ‘I read banned books’ card in protest at GOP efforts to restrict access to literature – Independent. “The library says it will issue 5,000 of the bright yellow limited-edition cards in Davidson County over the next month.”
- 2022 Library Systems Report – American Libraries. “An industry disrupted”. Summary of major moves in the library management systems industry.
- Boston Public Library will offer one-hour wedding ceremonies for $200 – Boston 25 News. “The Boston Public Library announced Monday it will start offering one-hour, $200 wedding ceremonies starting June 6. That price tag gets couples a ceremony with up to eight guests inside the historic Guastavino Room at the Central Library in Copley Square. Couples may bring an officiant and photographer, but food and beverage service, live music and additional furniture or decorations are not permitted.”
- The history of bookmobiles: bookmobiles are here, and there and everywhere, to stay – Book Riot. “In 1859, a cart called the Perambulating Library, one of the earliest bookmobiles on record, rolled through the streets of Warrington, England. In 1905, bookmobiles arrived in the U.S. The first recorded traveling library popped up in Maryland. “
- “Libraries are promoting an agenda to destroy families”: Idaho State Rep partners on program to removed books from libraries – Book Riot. “Comparing the current climate around book bannings to 9/11, Idaho State Representative Heather Scott introduced a workshop called “How to remove inappropriate materials from our schools/libraries” co-sponsored with Amy Henry, founder of Parents for Freedom and Liberty. The event, advertised through the official Idaho state legislature dispatch, called it a a way to learn what to do about “smut in our Idaho libraries.” … “In her opening remarks, Scott called for people to band together like they did in post-9/11 America in order to take back libraries.”
Local news by authority
- Bradford – Check out these old photos of Bradford libraries – Telegraph and Argus. History of the library service. Ends with “The story of Bradford libraries is more than a history of buildings; it’s about the ways libraries have adapted and continue to adapt. The focus now is making library buildings flexible for a range of facilities, activities and events, with partner services providing complementary services, making them community hubs. A recent funding award from Arts Council England means more libraries will have moveable shelving and meeting rooms installed, taking them into the future.”
- Denbighshire – Rhyl Library to celebrate Local History Month with new exhibitions – Rhyl Journal.
- Glasgow – Glasgow Election 2022: Future of libraries, museums and community centres at heart of election battle – Glasgow Live. “Venues were forced to close during the pandemic and income ‘fell off a cliff’ leading to questions over the future of Glasgow Life, the arms-length charity running the services.” … Library campaigner says ““You’re running statutory services such as libraries and you’re basing that on the number of gym memberships. That’s an unsustainable model.” … CILIPS says “We need a local government funding model that allows for robust backing for libraries.””
- Hertfordshire – Local History Month – Hertfordshire Council. “Local History Month is a national campaign co-ordinated by The Historical Association to increase awareness of local history and celebrate the depth and diversity of the collections held in libraries and archives across the UK during May.”
- Kent – KCC welcomes new facilities at Tunbridge Wells cultural hub – Kent Council. “the new cultural hub in Tunbridge Wells, which includes KCC’s library and Adult Education Centre, has been officially opened.” … “The £21 million project was delivered by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in partnership with Kent County Council, the National Heritage Lottery Fund and Arts Council England to integrate and extend a range of cultural and learning facilities in the town. It is expected to attract nearly 500,000 visits each year and 18,000 learners on the site, and be a showcase for learning, culture and the arts.”
- Kirklees – Kirklees ‘Human Library’ event tackles the stigma of mental health – Kirklees Together.
- Leeds – Tiny 1911 Bible rediscovered at Leeds library in lockdown – Guardian. “It was discovered as a result of a comprehensive survey of uncatalogued items in the Leeds collections, carried out during Covid lockdowns.”
- Lincolnshire – Tarina Jones excited with Long Sutton Library set to reopen in May after roof repair works – Fenland Citizen. “ervice will end at 1pm on Saturday, May 7. The library will then be closed for two weeks whilst associated internal works are completed, all scaffolding at the site is safely removed and staff return library furniture and stock ready for the reopening. On Monday, May 23, the library will open its doors to the public again.”
- Liverpool – Governance consultation ballot boxes placed in One Stop Shops and libraries – Liverpool Express. “It is the latest phase of a consultation with residents, who are being asked the question: “How would you like Liverpool City Council to be run?””
- Vote on future of Liverpool mayor and how city will governed underway as ballot boxes put in place -Liverpool World. “Liverpool City Council has placed ballot boxes in One Stop shops and libraries in the city for people to vote on how the city is governed.”
- Manchester – Former Corrie star set to appear at 2022 Libraries Festival – Manchester Evening News. “There will be 80 events in all, including panels, talks and workshops, at venues like the Central Library, Chetham’s Library, John Rylands, the Met and Manchester University libraries, and The Portico. Iconic Manchester poet Lemn Sissay has also been confirmed as ambassador for this year’s event.”
- Northern Ireland – Death positive library opens in Omagh to encourage discussion – BBC. “The death-positive library provides books to help people discuss this difficult and emotive subject. A dedicated bookshelf in Omagh’s main library will give people access to books on death, dying and grief.”
- Nottingham – Bulwell Riverside Library’s Business & IP Centre formally opens to support entrepreneurs – West Bridgford Wire. “Last week saw the formal opening of the Business & IP Centre local in Bulwell Riverside library. Additional centres at Beeston, Mansfield Central, Sutton-in-Ashfield libraries will also formally open throughout May and June.”
- What happened at Nottingham protest over living standards and proposed library closures – Nottinghamshire Live. “Various groups are in attendance, for different causes … The Labour-run council is proposing to close Basford Library in Vernon Road, the Radford Lenton Library, in Lenton Boulevard, and Aspley Library, in Nuthall Road, to save hundreds of thousands of pounds.”
- Perth and Kinross – Courier opinion: Perth and Kinross libraries show kindness counts in our cost of living crisis – Courier. ” libraries are scrapping late return fees on books as part of efforts to help borrowers struggling with rising prices. It is a small gesture. But it says a lot about the fragile state of the world we are living in right now.”
- New chapter as Perth and Kinross libraries scrap fines over cost of living crisis – Courier. “In the year before Covid-19, libraries in the region raked in £12,500 in fines – with the figure dropping to £5,400 for 2021/22 as the number of books borrowed plummeted. Helen Smout, chief executive, says the move will make libraries more “welcoming and inclusive places”. She said: “The traditional systems of library fines have always seemed to be contrary to these values, and I am delighted that we have been able to remove another potential barrier to making use of the wonderful free resources which libraries offer.”
- Renfrewshire – Keep the heid and have a read! Campaign encourages people to read for six minutes – Renfrewshire 24. “Described as a national reading moment, the Keep the Heid and Read! initiative is aimed at encouraging people to read every day to boost their mental health and wellbeing. Renfrewshire Libraries is part of this unique campaign being led by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation and the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH).”
- Stockport – Come to Adswood and Bridgehall library – we have new Saturday opening times – Stockport Council. ” “We know that weekends are a popular time for people to visit their local library. Hopefully these new opening hours will help even more people to use the services on offer at Adswood and Bridgehall library at a time that suits them.”
- Suffolk – Suffolk: providing wellbeing support from libraries – LGA. “Libraries in Suffolk provide a comprehensive range of mental health and wellbeing help situated in the hearts of towns and villages across the county. “
- Tameside – Theatrical tribute to the Brontë sisters in Tameside – Quest Media Network. “Thanks to a partnership with award-winning Stute Theatre, Tameside Council has arranged for two performances of ‘I am No Bird’ to take place at Droylsden Library on Monday 9 May. As would be expected both are close to being sold out.”
- Warwickshire – Councillors and Kenilworth Deputy Mayor visit exciting Breaking the News exhibition at Kenilworth Library – Warwickshire Council. “The localised exhibition in Warwickshire is part of a collective of more than 30 libraries across the UK hosting the exhibition pop-ups, and runs alongside the major Breaking the News exhibition at the British Library in London from 22 April to 21 August 2022. The Breaking the News exhibition is being delivered in Warwickshire in partnership with the British Library’s Living Knowledge Network.”
- West Berkshire – Temporary Thatcham Library location discussed in possible refurbishment delay – Newbury Today. “Thatcham Library is due to undergo a refurbishment and discussions are being had as to where the service can be temporarily accessed once works begin. The building refurbishment, which was approved on February 4, will see the Bath Road facility get a new disabled-access toilet and entrance area.”
Under the election radar
May 2nd
Editorial
I’ve not heard the word “hollowed out” for a while and it’s a bit depressing to read it again. There’s an article in the Guardian on the subject, including the downright terrifying statistic that there has been a ” 52% reduction in the number of library visits per person between 2009/10 and 2019/20″. Terrifying because I suspect it is true. I’m not so sure about the statistic quoted that a third of all libraries have closed since 2009/10, though, even if one includes all the volunteer libraries and accepts that it’s the smallest libraries that are closed, but the 44% cut in funding rings true, if inflation is taken into account.
So why this report now? Well, the local elections are going ahead, with not much mention of libraries. On the surface, things seem to be going OK, with there being one entirely new library this week, three moves of libraries and one library likely to close. However, Libraries Connected report that “more than one in four libraries managing cuts of between 5% and 20% this year”, which is pretty dang bad. So why the low profile of libraries in campaigns? Well, it’s only in those areas with particular threats, notably Essex, where libraries are mentioned in campaigns. Councils have learnt to cut libraries, not close them, in order to not push the public into protests.
Changes by local authority
- Devon – Bideford Library to move into Arts Centre for £1.7m building.
- Essex – New library in Shenfield
- Suffolk – Southwold Library to move into new “community hub”
- Warrington – Birchwood Library to move into leisure/tennis complex
- Wiltshire – Durrington Library, in a 49 year old portacabin, likely to close.
National news
- 10Tickers – 10Tickers. “The charming 10Tickers book series introduces children to the seven areas of
learning and development contained in the EYFS curriculum.” … “‘As part of our CSR initiative we are giving 10 sets of our 10Tickers book series to local library authorities for free with the aim of helping young children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The books introduce children to the seven areas of learning and development contained in the Early Years Foundation statutory framework. QR codes are featured in the books, whereby children can access online content. This online content includes simple activities, games and pdfs. To get involved please email info@10tickers.com regarding this CSR initiative! You can also visit www.10Tickers.com to see more information on the books.’” - Board Games in Libraries – Newcastle Libraries. Thursday 19 May, 18:00, online. “An online meet-up, primarily for library staff, to share their experiences and learn more about using board games in libraries.”
- Farshore to be headline sponsor for CILIP Youth Libraries Group Conference – BookSeller. “The conference will take place from 16th–18th September at The Quays Hotel in Sheffield. It will be in person for the first time in two years, but there will be a virtual programme of events running from 12th–14th September for those unable to attend. This year’s conference will celebrate the theme of “Reading the Planet; Libraries in a Changing Climate …”
- Libraries Connected Annual Report 2021 – Libraries Connected. “With more than one in four libraries managing cuts of between 5% and 20% this year, we are advocating for libraries in the latest spending review”
- Libraries Improvement Fund Round 2 – Arts Council England. “This fund will enable library services across England to invest in a range of projects to upgrade buildings and technology so they are better placed to respond to the changing ways people are using them. ” £5m.
- Local government in England ‘hollowed out’ under Conservatives – Guardian. “An example cited in the report about the difficulty of comparing local authority services was the impact on libraries. A third of all libraries have closed amid a 44% reduction in spending since 2010. There is, however, little relationship between spending and closures, because many cost savings come through means such as fewer staff and reduced opening hours. The effect has been a 52% reduction in the number of library visits per person between 2009/10 and 2019/20.”
- Malorie Blackman: ‘If I’m only known for Noughts and Crosses, I’m OK with that’ – I. “she sometimes got a frosty reception – not from the kids, but from the teachers, librarians and writers who didn’t welcome the presence of a black author who wrote about black characters.”
- Sissay announced as ambassador for Manchester Festival of Libraries – BookSeller. “The festival, which highlights what is offered by the library service, runs from 15th to 19th June and will stage 80 events covering everything from wellbeing to culture and creativity. “
International news
- Denmark – Roskilde Festival of Literature – celebrating reading, stories, enlightenment and community – Christian Lauersen. “Why does a public library system make a festival? For Roskilde Libraries the main purpose really is to support our main goals of fostering a stronger of reading and curiosity, support equal access to life-long learning and cultural activity and make room for a healthy and thriving community. With the festival format we are concentrating those things in a 3 days piñata tapping into that special festival feel of togetherness and community and hopefully we will also be able to attract people who don’t normally come to the library. “
- USA – Freckle Project April 2022 “Where Did You Get That Book” Update – Every Library Institute. “The April 2022 Freckle Project survey asked 667 adults in the United States a key question: “Where did you get that book?” The answers about where people source their books and how they utilize print, ebooks, and audiobooks continue to evolve.”
- Brooklyn Library offers access to banned books to teens across the US – Book Riot. “In 2021, there were over 1,500 book bans in U.S. school districts, representing over 1,000 unique titles.”
- Kemp to sign bills to ban “divisive concepts” in classrooms, “obscene materials” in libraries – Yahoo News. US censors continue to take the world of the Handmaid’s Tale as a destination to aim for.
- Denver librarians tell all: The weirdest things people left in returned books – Denver Post. “An illustrated story entitled “The Lousy Ketchup Bottle.” Marijuana leaves. An origami bird. A Pokémon card. A Cinemark ticket stub to “Little Women.” A bookmark from Stardust Book Emporium in Savannah, Georgia. The aforementioned lunch meat.”
Local news by authority
- Bristol – CrimeFest Donates Books to Libraries Across Bristol – Shots Mag. “The Big Library Crime Book Giveaway, organised by the UK’s biggest crime fiction convention CrimeFest, takes place at the end of April. Roughly 650 crime books will be given to all 27 libraries across the city from 29 April – 1 May. The initiative is being supported by bestselling author, Ann Cleeves, who is a vocal advocate of reading and libraries as a ‘lifeline’.”
- Derbyshire – Ada Belfield Centre and Belper Library, Belper, Derbyshire – Riba Journal. “This enlightened project combines a residential care building for the elderly with a new public library, with both sharing a courtyard and public café. In doing so, it revives a derelict backland former chocolate factory within Derwent Valley Mills Unesco World Heritage Site and connects it back to the energy of the high street.”
- Devon – Dilapidated library that ‘defied gravity’ gets major £1.7million move in Bideford – Devon Live. “Bideford Library is set to move to a new and modern building in a £1.7million relocation scheme. Devon County Council has completed a competitive tender process with the Bideford Library moving from its current location on New Road to the Bideford Arts Centre building. The total cost for the project is estimated to be £1,696,052.70. Barnstaple firm Pearce Construction will undertake the development.”
- New mobile library replaces ‘Gertie’ – Tavistock Today. “The replacement vehicle is only six years old and was bought second hand with a £15,000 grant from Devon County Council – a tenth of the cost of a brand new vehicle.”
- East Riding – Chance to find your voice at library Cuppa and Chorus sessions – Scarborough News. “Cuppa and a Chorus aims to lift mood, encourage wellbeing, and combat isolation. Sessions comprise of a relaxed ‘getting to know you’ social between the facilitator and those taking part, to enjoy a drink and light refreshments and set the tone of togetherness.”
- Essex – New beach libraries set up in Clacton, Walton and Dovercourt – Clacton and Frinton Gazette. “Run by different community groups around the district, the sites contain fun items such as buckets and spades for groups to use for the day.”
- Save Our Libraries respond to council proposals – Your Harlow. “‘It stands to reason that when a library has to give up space to share with other organisations and services, there will be less room for books, less room to study, and less room for computers’, said a SOLE spokesperson.”
- Work gets underway to deliver Shenfield’s new library – Essex Council. “In July 2021, Essex Housing, our housing development company, secured planning consent to revitalise the site through the construction of a new library funded by a modest development of nine high-quality apartments above the library space. The redevelopment was subsequently also given the go ahead by Cabinet in October 2021.”
- Hertfordshire – Hertfordshire residents invited to share their memories of Her Majesty the Queen for Platinum Jubilee exhibition and archive – Hertfordshire Council. “Visitors will have a golden opportunity to view original documents relating to Her Majesty the Queen, including a letter from HRH Princess Elizabeth to Hertfordshire resident Lady Desborough, as well as other examples of royal correspondence, photos and documents. There will also be a chance to add to this historic archive by sharing memories of previous jubilee celebrations and royal visits over tea and cake, in true regal style.”
- Lambeth -Lambeth Libraries – community events, talks, quizzes and services for May 2022 – Brixton Buzz. “We are looking to set up Children and Young People Friends Groups for each Lambeth Library. As part of Lambeth becoming a Child Friendly Borough we want to hear what our younger users want. Are we providing the right activities and books?”
- Manchester – Festival of Libraries 2022 is announced – Manclibraries Blog. “The Festival of Libraries returns in June 2022, and will take place in libraries across Greater Manchester. After a successful debut last year, this year’s festival will run from Wednesday 15 to Sunday 19 June, 2022. The Festival, which is supported by Arts Council England …”
- North Yorkshire – North Yorkshire libraries encourage you to socialise – York Press. “Events in libraries during Mental Health Awareness Week include Coffee, Cake and Chat drop-ins at which people can enjoy a cuppa and cake and meet new and old friends.”
- Southwark – Reopen Kingswood Library in Kingswood Estate – Change.org. “Kingswood Library inside Kingswood House in the Kingswood Estate, in the Upper Norwood/South Dulwich/Sydenham Hill area has been closed since the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020. Recently the whole of Kingswood House has been put out to tender offers but nothing announced.
- Staffordshire – Libraries helping locals explore the great outdoors during Staffordshire Day – Express and Star. “This year’s theme is the great outdoors and the county’s 43 libraries are standing by with a treasure chest of resources, books, guides and displays to help highlight the best places to visit.”
- Suffolk – ‘We’re very excited’ – New library set to be unveiled in coastal town – Lowestoft Journal. “Southwold Library is moving to a larger, purpose-built space at the Old Hospital, a new community hub within the redeveloped former Southwold Hospital.”
- Warrington – Birchwood Library to be relocated into Leisure and Tennis Complex – Warrington Worldwide. “Transformation of an underutilised bar area and associated space into a modern, open plan library offer, including children’s area and public network computers”
- West Berkshire – Friends of Thatcham Library seeks volunteers – Newbury Today. “The Friends of Thatcham Library group are calling on new recruits to aid the library on Bath Road with events and other tasks.”
- Wigan – Library festival is set to return to the borough with a Wigan ambassador – Wigan Today. “The UNESCO city of literature’s celebration of Greater Manchester’s 133 libraries, including Wigan, is supported by Arts Council England and will run from Wednesday to Sunday June 15 to 19. It will feature a varied and vibrant programme, with events in: wellbeing, culture and creativity, digital and information, and of course, reading.”
- Wiltshire – Community concerns over Durrington library’s uncertain future – Salisbury Journal. Photograph shows library looks like an old temporary hut. “The library has been standing for 49 years and the council’s management team has advised that structurally it has reached the end of its life.” … “Costs to demolish and replace the portacabin on the same site are estimated at £250,000, which the council describes as “cost ineffective”
- Worcestershire – Your letters: Redditch Library, election promises and more – Redditch Standard. “After Redditch’s former library had served the town it was time to move on to improve access and service provision with the opening of the current library on Saturday, January 24, 1976. The new library cost £550,000 and in its 40th year was valued at £4 million. Are the wheels about to come off with the destruction of a unique community asset; established, meeting educational, creative, cultural, economic, health, social needs and valued across generations?”
World Book Night, Big Jubilee Read, Dorset survey, US division and Ukrainian bravery
Apr 24th
Editorial
At the time of writing this, World Book Night was yesterday. For those libraries who are successful in bidding for free books, it’s a wonderful way to promote their services and reading, although the glory days some of us remember of truly huge numbers of books being given out may be over. Also promoting reading is the Big Jubilee Read which has been released, although it’s adult-only book list means such authors as Rowling are unfortunately missing. The Jubilee is shaping up to be huge and the Read is, I am sure, just one of the ways that public libraries will get involved, including the news of a gift of 5000 Morpurgo books. For those who wish to see how important libraries are all the year around then the Dorset survey makes interesting reading.
Across the pond, the descent of politics into sharp and extreme division is leading to a fight over what books can be bought for library stock and, also, how much power local politicians have over libraries. The sector has long been semi-independent in many states and so this is a worry developing for many American libraries who value their freedom from politicians. Meanwhile, the fight for freedom against Russian tyranny means news continues to be made in the Ukraine with librarians and libraries helping the fight.
Changes by local authority
National news
- Abdulrazak Gurnah and the Big Jubilee Read from the Library of Birmingham – BBC Radio 4. “… And how are libraries faring ten years on from the first austerity cuts and two years after the pandemic? Briony Birdi of the University of Sheffield explains.”
- Breaking the News exhibition shows Edward Snowden’s smashed drives – New Scientist. “The exhibition runs until 21 August at the British Library and then at more than 30 public libraries across the UK.” see also Breaking the News – British Library.
- Designing Libraries Round Table – Designing Libraries. “23 delegates – representing sector organisations, allied professions, suppliers and sponsors – attended the event and made a number of observations and recommendations for the website’s future direction and content. They suggested five potential workstreams for further exploration: inspiration, advocacy, education, marketplace and community.”
- HarperCollins and Reading Agency to give away 5,000 copies of Morpurgo book for jubilee – BookSeller. “Morpurgo said he was delighted by the initiative. “Libraries have been and continue to be a constant in our communities, our schools, and lives,” he said. “Libraries, and particularly the librarians who work in them, are vital for us all but especially for those who need them most: those with least, young and old.”
- Human libraries, where you can ‘borrow a person’, could help tackle prejudice and other preconceived ideas – Karyn McCluskey – Scotsman. Partial paywall.
- Libraries, Early Years and Family Hubs – Local Government Association. Webinar, Thursday 19 May, 14-16.
- Paintings in Hospitals Brings Art to Better Libraries – Pressat. “Paintings in Hospitals and charitable social enterprise Better announce Art Meets Book, a collaborative project bringing art exhibitions and workshops to communities in London and the West Midlands via local libraries. The project is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.”
- Platinum Jubilee: The Big Jubilee Read is revealed but misses one major author – Royal Central. “A judge from the BBC reading list said there was an extensive discussion about Rowling, but it was decided Harry Potter was more of a ‘children’s book’ and it would not be included in the final list. Professor of modern literature at Queen Mary University, Susheila Nasta, said of the decision: “There was some discussion about Harry Potter, but I think the feeling, in the end, was it was primarily a children’s book. It was decided to make space for a book that was good and equally well received.””
- Rethinking Librarianship with a human touch: experiences of an Indian library professional at IFLA – CILIP ILIG. “Arjun Sanyal, a young library professional from the Central University of Himachal Pradesh, India, the recipient of the 2021 Alan Hopkinson Award, will talk about his experiences of participating in the virtual IFLA WLIC 2021 that emboldened him to rethink the idea of librarianship as a human-centred paradigm underpinned by the notion of social justice and empowerment.”
- #VoteLibraries in the local & national elections 2022 – CILIP. “CILIP is asking our members to reach out to your local candidates and encourage them to ‘Vote Libraries’ in recognition of the tremendous social and economic impact that strong local library services provide to a community.”
International news
- Ukraine – In Lviv, Ukrainian volunteers create camo netting and community – NBC News. “Near the corner of the square, inside an ornate building that now houses a youth library, volunteers convene to create camouflage nets for soldiers on the front lines. Built in the 17th century with walls carrying ornamental painted trim and vaulted ceilings, this library has made room for one of the many beating hearts of volunteer work and Ukrainian patriotism within a city that’s served as a relative safe haven from the horrors of Kyiv, Bucha and the eastern front.” … “In this library, where locals still borrow books and which once housed royalty and then a seminary, volunteers have made more than 500 nets that collectively stretch over 32,000 square feet.”
- Ukraine blog – The secret weapon in Ukraine’s fight against Russia – libraries – Library Campaign. “Far from being passive victims, the country’s libraries are involved in the fight for victory. Just as British Libraries encouraged their patrons to Read for Victory during WW2 and embedded themselves as Information Bureaus within their local communities, so too are Ukrainian libraries playing vital roles within this conflict.”
- USA – Why Libraries May Never Stop Being People Places – New York Times. “Libby suggests, intentionally or not, that public libraries, the actual buildings, are no longer necessary, that libraries have become — like everything and everyone else — place-less purveyors of content. But if during the past couple of years you replaced in-person library visits with an app, you may be missing out. What many public libraries have done, despite Covid and because of it, is consciously enhance their physical presence on the street and in the neighborhood.”
As Mr. Reyes-Gavilan put it about the King Memorial Library roof deck, “When I’m up there on a warm day like today, people are so thankful that such a space exists.” Or, as Ms. Houben, who argues that every library needs a garden, suggested, “A library should be so nice that you bring your own book, right?”
- New Kentucky Law Hands Control of Libraries to Local Politicians – Publishers Weekly. “Kentucky Republicans say the issue is “accountability,” pointing out that most of Kentucky’s public library boards can levy taxes and should therefore “answer to someone elected by voters.” But critics say the bill is in fact a thinly veiled effort to “politicize” library boards, and give unprecedented control over library operations to politicians.”
Local news by authority
- Cumbria – Cumbrian libraries give out free books for World Book Night – News and Star. “Adult Learning Teams will support the Libraries Service in offering the books to groups that use libraries to develop their literacy and English language skills. “
- Devon – Library exhibition celebrates female football – North Devon Gazette. “Supported by an Arts Council England DYCP grant, photographer Amanda McCormack spent six months capturing images of Fremington FC’s female teams from the Wildcats, who start at five years-old, to the women’s team aged 16 and up. “
- Dorset – Joint Overview Committee to review draft Library strategy – Dorset Council. Interesting look at what the public values in a library. “The consultation did not include any proposals for change, it sought the views of library users and non-users, partners, businesses, and employees to understand how the service could better meet the needs of residents now and in the future.”
- Importance of Dorset libraries highlighted – Dorset Echo. “In the consultation, younger people said they would like to see more clubs in the library as well as arts and crafts sessions and board games. Those over 16 wanted a better range of stock and suggested a coffee shop. Responses from businesses and partners showed a need for community spaces, hot-desking and co-working spaces, and the ability for organisations to use libraries to run clinics or groups to support communities with health, wellbeing, and safety.”
- Essex – Essex libraries safe for at least four more years – Thurrock Gazette. “The initiative was signed-off after an eight-week public consolation period in which the views of thousands of residents were taken on board. The project promises to increase the range of online resources available while also investing in training and the upskilling of staff at Essex’s 74 libraries.”
- New creative writing workshops launched in Essex and Thurrock – In Your Area. “A mentorship for under-represented writers will be working with Essex & Thurrock Libraries and Essex Book Festival to deliver creative writing workshops to aspiring authors who are interested in writing for children and young adults, during May 2022.”
- Hertfordshire – £185,000 to fund youth voice project for Herts libraries – Bishop’s Stortford Independent. “The project is part of the Volunteering Futures programme distributed by Arts Council England … The money will be used to fund My Voice, a county-wide project aimed at increasing and improving volunteering opportunities for 16- to 24-year-olds within, and on behalf of, the library service.”
- Inverclyde – Easter ‘crafternoons’ at Inverclyde Libraries – Greenock Telegraph. “Local youngsters have been glueing, cutting and colouring at libraries across the district as part of the popular holiday craft sessions.”
- Kirklees – Dewsbury and Birstall libraries to hold drop-in advice sessions for parents – Dewsbury Reporter. “Parents and carers of children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are invited to the sessions which will allow families to discover more about SEND activities, support and services.”
- Middlesbrough – Middlesbrough library grant to tackle digital exclusion – BBC. £270K through Life Improvement Fund. “The funding for the Grade II-listed central library will be used for computers and printing facilities and create a “21st Century service”.”
- North Somerset – Call for memories to create jubilee bunting – Weston Mercury. “Residents are being invited to put a memory from the past 70 years onto a flag which will be made into bunting to decorate North Somerset’s libraries. The memory can be personal, to remember a loved one for example, an event in family life, or a national event. Free workshops are being arranged where people can go along and find out more and complete a flag for the bunting. “
- North Yorkshire – Families welcomed into library’s new-look children’s area – Harrogate News. “The new layout allows children to read in a cosy hideaway or sit under a large tree which is lined with brightly coloured comfortable seating. Mobile shelving has been added to enable flexible use of the space for events and activities, including the popular weekly story times and half-term craft and theatre sessions. The library has also benefitted from a £3,000 investment in reading material including picture books, board books and audio books, as well as popular junior fiction and non-fiction titles”
- A chance to learn the Yorkshire lingo at the library – The Press. “Events will be held in libraries around the county as Ryedale Folk Museum and the Dales Countryside Museum theme the month around dialect and language. These events are part of a research project into how we speak, led by the University of Leeds.”
- Nottingham – One Hyson: Growing Together – Libraries project funded by Arts Council England (ACE) Libraries Improvement Fund – Nottingham Council. £114k.
- Nottingham City Council defends decision to close three libraries – LocalGov. “‘The council needs to save money because it has wasted money on vanity projects. That’s not the fault of the libraries. The council is currently employing consultants at a cost of £1,000 a day. They clearly have money. This is about priorities.’” but council says “I certainly didn’t come into politics to close libraries, but we are facing a financial reality which requires incredibly difficult decisions to be made. There is no doubt that there has been a national decline in library usage over the last ten years which has been mirrored in Nottingham, further accelerated by the pandemic. We therefore need to shape our library service to meet emerging and future needs.”
- Campaign grows as three Nottingham libraries face axe – BBC. “A campaign to save three of Nottingham’s libraries has been gaining traction in recent weeks as thousands of people have signed a petition to keep them open and 100 writers, poets and librarians signed an open letter to the city council leader.”
- Stockport – Edgeley, Great Moor and Reddish libraries go Open+ – Stockport Council. “Open+ is a great way for residents to get the most out of their local library. Once locals have signed up the scheme they can use the library at a time convenient to them, making our services more available to those who may not be able to use the library during staffed hours.””
- Suffolk – Chantry men’s wellbeing group take up ‘new fight’ with 300-mile challenge – Ipswich Star. “The idea to cycle between all 44 of the county’s libraries was born after Corrin Eaton, a founding member of the Men Can Talk social group at Chantry Library, wanted to do something to help the venue that provides a home for the support group. “
- Torbay – Libraries Unlimited South West – Torbay Lottery. “We offer free access to thousands of books, eBooks, audiobooks, eAudiobooks, online reference, music and magazines. Each of our libraries runs numerous events and activities for all the family, and staff are on hand to help you find anything you need. We need your help so we can continue to offer and develop our service in Torbay. Thank you for your support and good luck” £624 of £1300 raised.
- Wakefield – Explore science and industry at this year’s WordFest – Wakefield Express. “The festival, which runs throughout May 2022 and features daily digital activities, a youth-led sister festival ‘LitFest’ producing a ‘zine’ written and edited by young people. All libraries will become WordLabs – with competitions for children and word-themed challenges being set every week such as mini-catapult making, Lego tower building and paper aeroplane design.”
Two points on two different timelines
Apr 18th
Editorial
Two councils this week demonstrates, at different stages of the process, what can happen when a council tries to close libraries that have strong public support. In Essex, sustained and well-organised protests lasted long-term, eventually not only leading to a u-turn promise that no libraries would be closed but also, this week, the announcement of £2.4m of various funds for the service. Nottingham Council is still trying to close some of their libraries but with some of their own councillors coming out against the move, billboards being put up in protest and local authors banding together. It would be great to think that the Nottingham story will end as relatively happily as the Essex one but of course each council does things differently. We’ll only find out when we find out. Elsewhere, there’s a couple of stories showing the strength of Ukrainians and some Arts Council England funding to boost volunteering in a couple of services.
Changes by local authority
- Essex – £2.4m for new training, literacy and other initiatives.
- Hertfordshire – £185k for youth volunteering.
National news
- Awareness Week resource pack for libraries – Hospice UK. “This year for the first time we are proud to have worked with Libraries Connected to produce a special resource pack for libraries, to help them get involved with Dying Matters Awareness Week.”
- CILIP Library and Information Supplier Showcase – Spring 2022 – CILIP. 12 May, London. “This one-day event gives you the opportunity to meet a number of suppliers under one roof, on the same day in a relaxed, non-sales environment. “
- Developing digital, media and information skills in the library workforce – Libraries Connected. Webinar, Wednesday 11 May, 13.00 to 14.30.
- Libraries Activity Data – Libraries Connected. Webinar, Thursday 21 April, 13 to 14.00. “Join us for a discussion on what the data shows, what it means and provide your own insight from the library services to make our analysis a much richer picture.”
- New internet laws return to Parliament for second reading this week – Gov.uk/DCMS. “Funding boost will help people’s critical thinking online through a new expert Media Literacy Taskforce alongside proposals to pay for training for teachers and library workers”
“In order to provide Ukrainians with a range of free reading, listening, learning and entertainment opportunities, multimedia content provider Odilo launched a free app for both Android and iOS in early April. Available across Europe, the app includes 3000 e-books and audiobooks in a variety of genres, including 1,700 Ukrainian titles and 500 in English. There is material for both children and adults. Kraal: ‘We hope that everyone – from social workers to host families – will draw the attention of the refugees to this app. To offer them the support, pleasure or comfort of reading, learning and listening in these difficult and uncertain times.” Links to the app: Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=es.odilo.ukraine iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ukraine-unlimited-learning/id1615037168“
- New Voices, Big Ideas – apply to speak – CILIP. “This year, we want to hear from people who have never spoken at a conference before, but have big ideas that they would like to share at the session “New Voices, Big Ideas”. CILIP is looking for 6 speakers to each give a lightning talk around the theme of “What is Sustainability?”
- Scottish libraries ‘lost out on more than £250m’ in last decade, new Labour analysis shows – Morning Star. “The party cited figures from the Improvement Service’s local government benchmarking framework, which showed that by 2020-21, real-terms cumulative cuts to the net expenditure on libraries had hit £257,125,000.”
International news
- Ireland – €20m grant funding announced for school libraries – Independent.ie. “Public libraries already provide a range of supports for school under the Public Library Supports for Schools jointly agreed by the Department of Education and the Department of Rural and Community Development. Public libraries will also support the roll-out of the School Library Book Grant through the provision of additional measures and resources, in two steps.”
- Spain – Barcelona honours Gabriel García Márquez with new library – Guardian. “In the digital age, building a new library filled with old-fashioned printed books seems idealistic, almost quixotic. Not so in Barcelona. The city council is about to open a new €12m (£10m) library next month, the latest instalment in a programme that dates back 20 years.”
- Ukraine – Libraries around the world are helping safeguard Ukrainian books and culture – Conversation. “Just as libraries have collected, preserved and shared knowledge held by their own institutions over the past century, they are now sharing this knowledge globally so that when the war is over, Ukraine can see its cultural treasures rescued and restored.”
- USA – The 2022 Peeps Diorama Contest – Library Arts Center. “Make an original shoebox-sized diorama with the iconic Easter candies—PEEPS!—as the main characters. Community members of all ages, businesses, school classrooms, groups & organizations are all encouraged to enter. Take cues from current events, pop culture, or clever “peeps” puns …”
- 14 Stories About Working in a Library That Will Make You Laugh Out Loud – Medium / EveryLibrary. “One staff member recalls when a patron arrived at the library, looked around, appeared lost, then asked the employee where the library was.”
- KY lawmakers killed bill to hand libraries over to politicians. Then they revived it – Kentucky.com. “Gov. Andy Beshear vetoed Senate Bill 167 on April 8, saying it would politicize libraries by letting elected county leaders appoint whomever they want to library boards and block major library spending. In most of Kentucky’s 120 counties, libraries have been largely self-governed and self-financed tax districts, created by citizen petition.”
Local news by authority
- Cheshire West and Chester – Ellesmere Port Library to celebrate 60th year in May – Standard. Coffee morning, murder mystery, staff reunion.
- Cheshire West Libraries to distribute new book at foodbanks – Standard. 500 copies of “The Swimmer” By Graham Norton. “The books will be handed out at 16 Cheshire West food banks and Cheshire Food Hub, as part of the Reading Agency’s World Book Night, on Saturday 23 April.”
- Croydon – Easter is off to a hopping start – News Anyway. Storytime, crafts and Keralan culture.
- Essex – Essex County Council £2.4million plan for libraries – Echo. “Essex County Council now proposes to spend £400,000 on six fixed-term posts of 18 months to develop the plan by training its existing workforce and recruiting new talent towards its literacy ambitions, community engagement and outreach, and delivering planning and implementation. Another £400,000 is being spent on refurbishment and creating dedicated Everyone’s Literacy areas in all 74 libraries to improve literacy skills in adults and children. Another £1.6m is to be spent on the delivery of other initiatives identified by the delivery planning and implementation lead who will have responsibility for turning the ambitions and proposals in the strategy into benefits for each area of the county.”
- Hertfordshire – Hertfordshire’s libraries to improve youth volunteering with £185,000 funding – Hemel Today. “As part of the Volunteering Futures programmed by Arts Council England, the money secured by Hertfordshire County Council will be used to fund ‘My Voice’, a project aimed at increasing and improving volunteering opportunities for 16 to 24-year-olds. A ‘Youth Voice’ board of young people is due to be created, which will be a space for members to share their views and input that will help to shape the future of the county’s libraries.”
- Inverclyde – Storyteller confirmed for Scotland’s Stories event – Inverclyde Council. “The storytelling event is part of the Scotland’s Stories: Community Campfires Residency with Inverclyde Libraries and is supported by EventScotland as part of the Year of Stories 2022.”
- North Lanarkshire – Eager writers invited to take part in North Lanarkshire wide poetry competition – Daily Record. “Entrants will have the chance to be included in a special e-book being published for National Poetry Day. The collection will be released on October 6 and will celebrate the power and diversity of local history, and capture for future generations a taste of North Lanarkshire’s storytelling culture.”
- Nottingham – Another Labour councillor revolts against her own party’s proposals to close much-loved library – Notts TV. “Cllr Anne Peach (Lab), who has represented the Radford area since 2013, is the latest councillor to call on the council’s leadership to drop proposals to axe Radford/Lenton Library. Cllr Hassan Ahmed (Lab), who has represented the ward since 2018, has also made his feelings known and believes the closure will rip out “the heart and soul of the local community.””
- Billboard goes up in Nottingham as city council proposes closure of 3 libraries – Nottingham Post. “A campaign group, Save Nottingham Libraries, says it costs £450 for one electronic billboard and around £800 for two. Through a crowdfunder the group managed to purchase one which has gone up in Nottingham Road.” … “The Five Leaves Bookshop, in Long Row, also says a number of the city’s writers have backed the campaign to save the libraries from closure. It said copies of a book they have contributed to, arguing their case, have been sent to councillors. The independent store says: “Free, from the bookshop, Words for Our Libraries: Nottingham writers against library closures, with contributions by Henry Normal poet, Susan Finlay, Vic Blake, Manjit Sahota, Ronne Randall, Ayana Sen-Handley, Andrew Thacker, Neil Fulwood, Chris Towers, Sian Steans, Chris Cook and the original letter signed by well over 100 local writers protesting against planned closures of three libraries.”
- Labour councillor against his own council’s proposals to close a much-loved library in one of the poorest parts of Nottingham – Notts TV.
- Oldham – Children out in gardens as part of Oldham Libraries event – Oldham Times. “As part of Errol’s Garden Story Walks, children went around the gardens, collecting and logging plants. The event was organised by Crompton Library as it looked to get children and families to become part of the community garden. Oldham Theatre Workshop also helped put some entertainment on for the youngsters.”
- Portsmouth – Boost to make volunteering more accessible – Portsmouth Council. £130k from ACE.
- Powys – Winter of Wellbeing success for Powys libraries – Powys County Times. “More than 6,500 children and young people in Powys participated in a series of library events as part of the Winter of Wellbeing programme, the county council has said. Throughout March, the Powys Library Service hosted a range of activities, including storytelling, workshops and sports, and arranged virtual ‘meet the author’ sessions for schools across the county.”
- Rhondda Cynon Taff – Redesigning Pontypridd Library – Princh. “Rhondda Cynon Taf Library is a truly flexible community space – open plan and welcoming to encourage everyone to come into the building to explore what is on offer.”
- Sandwell – Libraries to extend opening hours across Sandwell from cash boost – Birmingham Live. £495k Staffless Libraries technology due to Libraries Improvement Funding.
- West Sussex – Big name authors offering talks in Worthing and Crawley libraries – Sussex World. ““These two events have been inspired by the BBC’s Novels That Shaped Our World campaign, which West Sussex County Council Libraries participated in last year”
Happy holidays everyone
Apr 10th
Editorial
A quiet Easter week by the look of it. Happy Easter everyone.
National news
- All Stories relaunches mentorship programme for writers from underrepresented groups – BookSeller. “Year two will offer 10 mentorships to writers of middle-grade and young adult fiction across nine months, evolving from the previous format where writers for all age groups were mentored together for six months. Picture book and young fiction writers will be supported the following year, in an ongoing pattern.”
- Engaging the public with research in libraries: An introduction to the toolkit – Libraries Connected. Webinar. Tuesday 26 April, 13.
- Living with Covid 19 guidance – April 2022 – Libraries Connected. “Libraries should continue to make risk assessments in line with their local circumstances and to consider the needs of any vulnerable staff, volunteers and users.”
- Printer Near Me: Price and Value of Printing in the Local Library – Lorensbergs. Survey of public library printing charges. “As more libraries stop fining for overdue items, print revenue becomes even more significant. What libraries charge for printouts is therefore critical to get right. Too high and it disadvantages those users on lower income, too low and it disadvantages the library. “
- Strategic Insights Webinar: Recruiting in a competitive environment – Libraries Connected. Wednesday 13 April, 15:30. “At this webinar we will hear from Manchester and Kirklees Libraries on how they have bucked the trend and launched innovative recruitment processes to attract high calibre and more diverse staff.”
- Support our Libraries: Labour hits out at SNP on its funding record – Scotsman. “Scottish Labour has accused the SNP of “gutting local communities” after new analysis revealed cuts to local government have led to libraries losing out on more than £250 million in the last decade.” … “The party has cited figures from the Improvement Service’s Local Government Benchmarking Framework, which showed that by 2020/21, real-terms cumulative cuts to the net expenditure on libraries had hit £257,125,000 over the last 10 years.”
- Transition – problems, solutions, conclusions – National Acquisitions Group. Wednesday 11 May, Birmingham. “Change requires transition, such as migrating to a new library management system; working under a new management structure; adapting to a reduced staff or resources budget; moving or withdrawing large parts of our collections; or changing our collections and acquisitions policies/workflows.”
International news
- Ukraine – Meet the 1,300 librarians racing to back up Ukraine’s digital archives – Washington Post. “Using open source tools and Slack, these volunteers have backed up everything from the country’s historical records and census data to children’s poems and basket weaving techniques.”
- United Arab Emirates – Reach for the sky: Meet three on-the-up publishing initiatives emerging from UAE – BookSeller. “Alongside writers and publishers, libraries are the third pillar supporting literacy in Sharjah and the UAE. At a time of heavy cuts to public library budgets in the UK, Sharjah’s investment in its service makes a striking contrast. Sharjah’s Public Library, which moved to a huge, purpose-built building in the city’s Cultural Square in 2011 and houses more than half a million books, is the centrepiece.”
- USA – The Quiet Revolution in the San Francisco Public Library – Counterpunch. “Libraries don’t guarantee popular information and popular governments, but they help make those two things possible. It’s also up to readers and citizens to keep libraries honest, serve the needs of diverse communities, and move with the times.” … “One of the great things about San Francisco’s public libraries is that for the most part they haven’t canceled cultures, not recently. Rather they keep the literary past alive.”
- 13 Hollywood YA and Children’s Book Authors on the Importance of Libraries – Hollywood Reporter. “Idina Menzel, John Lithgow, R.L. Stine, Becky Albertalli and more celebrity authors and writers spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about the role libraries have played in their lives and why children should always have access to the books that line their shelves.”
- Book ban attempts reach highest level in 20 years, new report finds – Independent. “There were 729 challenges to library, school and university materials and services in 2021”
- The Library Ends Late Fees, and the Treasures Roll In – New York Times. “The decision in New York City set off a wave of returns, accompanied by bashful notes of apology and gratitude.”
Local news by authority
- Bolton – Bolton Council launches survey on pandemic’s effect on children’s library and museum services – Bolton News. “Bolton Libraries and Museums Service is now asking for parents, family members and childminders to come forward and give their view on how their children have been affected. This will help the service to shape new sessions for young children in future now that restrictions have eased.”
- Calderdale – Motion to discuss Hipperholme library closures fails to get hearing at meeting – Telegraph and Argus. “Conservative group leader Coun Steven Leigh (Con, Ryburn) asked the final full Calderdale Council meeting before May’s local elections allow a motion to be debated at short notice. But the group was criticised by opposition groups who said with no notice councillors could not properly digest and research what was being proposed, and a vote on whether the motion should be put was lost.”
- East Riding – Easter fun at East Riding Libraries – Press.
- Hampshire – Improvements made to Chineham Library ‘sing inspiration’ – Basingstoke Gazette. Group who ” campaigned to save a library in Basingstoke said improvements have turned the library into a place that ‘sings inspiration’ almost two years after they campaigned to save it from closure.”
- Leicester – Easter fun at Leicester’s libraries and museums – Leicester Council.
- North Yorkshire – Delve into Yorkshire dialect with libraries and museums – North Yorkshire Council. “Events will be held in libraries around the county as Ryedale Folk Museum and the Dales Countryside Museum theme the month around dialect and language. These events are part of a research project into the way we speak, led by the University of Leeds.”
- Oxfordshire – New library service gives extra insight and resources for Oxfordshire businesses – Oxfordshire Council. “In collaboration with the British Library, Oxfordshire County Council’s new Business and Intellectual Property (IP) Centre will be offering both a venue and professional support for starting and growing a business.”
- Rhondda Cynon Taf – 100-year-old takes computer classes at local library – BBC. “she is learning IT at Porth Plaza, library which offers wheelchair access and offers classes, six days a week.”
- Southend – ‘Death Positive’ Event at Southend Libraries – Southend Council. “The phrase ‘death positive library’ aims to reflect libraries’ contributions to the growing social and philosophical movement that encourages people to speak openly about death and dying”
- South Tyneside – The history of South Tyneside in 20,000+ images – South Shields library volunteers celebrate 16 years of work – Shields Gazette.
- Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries Day raises over £11k for Suffolk’s library service – Suffolk Libraries. “The event took place on 12 March to raise vital funds for Suffolk Libraries, the charity which runs the library service in Suffolk. Suffolk Libraries Day 2022 included an online book festival, activities in all 44 libraries and live music gigs.”
- Surrey – Anonymous but not invisible – new exhibition coming to Surrey aims to demystify AA – Surrey Live. “AA Great Britain will open its archive to share images, recordings, literature and artefacts to illustrate AA’s journey to provide free and confidential support to anyone who is worried about their drinking.”
- Tower Hamlets – Reading for victory! The wartime library that went underground – Express. “Kate Thompson had first learned about the underground library at Bethnal Green Tube station from Pat Spicer, now aged 92, while researching her debut novel in 2015.”
- Warwickshire – Family activities on offer at Warwickshire libraries during Easter holidays – Rugby Observer. “Events and activities available include the Bhangra Tots Easter Eggs-travaganza interactive music and dancing event, Kate’s Storytree sessions, creative spring crafts, and Book Bears reading sessions for under-fives.”
- West Sussex – Author events are back this April in Worthing and Crawley Library – West Sussex Council. “As part of the campaign the Library Service held three successful online author events in February 2021 with authors Elly Griffiths, Isabel Ashdown and Jane Lythell. At the end of the project the service was awarded additional funding which has been used to hold these in-person events at Worthing and Crawley Library.”
- Wrexham – Magi Ann leads Easter fun events across Wrexham libraries – Leader.
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