Volunteer-run libraries

The idea of volunteers replacing paid staff in smaller “community libraries” is being strongly encouraged in the UK.  Such branches tend to be smaller (village or small town) buildings and account for less than 1% of all British libraries.  Almost all are single units.  

The idea of volunteer-run libraries ties in very neatly with the current Big Society philosophy and with the need to make the most of shrinking budgets.  Apart from a few isolated cases, it is a new phenomenon in the UK. Pages:

Pros

Cons

Practicalities

International situation

Further reading