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Editorial

The recent controversy over the rewriting of Roald Dahl’s books to make them more politically correct, which may or may not have been just a publicity stunt, has got me thinking even more about where we should stand on censorship. And it is censorship, pure and simple. Look at the definition of the word if you’re not sure.

My views on this have changed and hardened recently. The thing is I like being politically correct and, as any reader will gather from my editorials, my views are left of centre. But I think we need to be firm on some things. If one starts changing words then it means that written words can be changed. The moral high ground is lost and it’s harder to work out what was actually said or meant. Freedom of speech is taken away from the dead. And, maybe, if we refuse to recognise this as a line in the sand, then there are others lines we may not notice until it is too late.

My first degree was in History, fascinating subject (let me know if you want a chat on Later Roman military formations) but part of the challenge is working out what actually happened. Far from being the preservers of ancient knowledge like many of us were taught in school, the Early Christians destroyed by some estimates over 95% of pagan writing and a surprising amount of what is left is just extracts in Christian texts of the time, often included solely in order to rebut them. That was a historic catastrophe, in at least two different ways. What I am saying is that the writings of authors need to be kept the same in order to accurately judge them. If they fall out of favour of the times then let them. Of course, as librarians our influence is highly limited (profit wins every time) but at the very least we should not welcome such changes. Or we will be judged in the future for it. That is, unless librarians are written out of history when it is politically correct to do so.

Changes by local authority

• Cheshire East – Opening hours cut
• Rotherham – Mowbray Gardens Library and Brinsworth Community Library have staffless opening hours.

National news

• I hate library phone boxes. By Katrina Robinson – The Oldie. “I’m a librarian – so people think I should love it when people put any old books in any old crate and label it ‘Library’. They think I’m blaspheming against mighty Thoth, the Egyptian god of reading, when I tell them how I feel. I feel the way any worth-her-salt GP would feel if she spotted a rusty first-aid box by the side of the road, with ‘Hospital’ emblazoned all over it – while real hospitals were closing or becoming semi-open ‘community hospitals’ staffed by unqualified volunteers.”

Although there have been library closures, an extensive network of libraries remains across England delivering services including digital to local residents. There has been no assessment made of the impact of library closures on trends in the level of digital exclusion. There are over 2,900 libraries across England, and while there have been closures, they continue to be a well used service, providing a trusted network of accessible locations with trained staff and volunteers, free wifi and public PCs, and assisted digital access to a wide range of digital services.

Based on a dataset of information on public libraries in England, published by Arts Council England, we estimated that around 230 static libraries have been permanently closed in the period 1 April 2010 to 31 December 2021 and have not been relocated or replaced.”

Paul Scully, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department of Science Innovation and Technology

• Improving the online presence of public libraries with a new grants programme – British Library / Living Knowledge. “The first stage of the LibraryOn digital grants programme will kick off on 1 March 2023. From this date we’ll be inviting library services in England to submit an Expression of Interest form outlining their initial ideas for a funded project.”
• Julia Donaldson ends James Patterson’s reign as UK libraries’ most borrowed author – Guardian. “Patterson had been the most borrowed author for 14 years in the Public Lending Right (PLR) data” … “All of the Top 10 most borrowed titles for the period were fiction, with crime and thriller titles dominating. Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club and its sequel The Man Who Died Twice were in at numbers one and two on the chart, and held the same positions on the most borrowed audiobooks chart.”

• Libraries Improvement Fund (LIF) Round 3 – Arts Council England. £10.5m. “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.”
• The old book shop going to auction with hundreds of books inside – Wales Online. Nothing to do with public libraries but oh my gosh the books …
• Radio 2 Book Club Library Staff Opportunity – BBC Radio 2. “We’re looking for librarians to join the Radio 2 Book Club panel, to help choose the books that will feature on the show.”
• Shortlist announced for Libraries Connected Awards 2023 – Libraries Connected. “The Awards have six categories which reflect the Universal Library Offers (ULOs) and Promises – the core services and programmes that modern library services provide.”
• A sociological exploration of the library – Glasgow Guardian. “Cicero once said: “If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.” While students may have to replace a garden with a daily walk through Kelvingrove Park, our own private libraries are flourishing. Perhaps at the expense of the public good that public libraries provide.”

International news

• Czech Republic – Sustainability in Czech Libraries – CILIP. Webinar, March 22 Wednesday 5pm. ” established SDGs in Czech librarianship and empowered dozens of libraries to become pioneers of sustainable development topics in their communities.”
• South Korea – Exploring the Innovative Community Libraries of Korea – Publishers Weekly. “there is no future for libraries—instead, there are many diverse futures, futures diverse as the communities libraries are designed to serve. And in these futures, librarians shape their libraries around these unique communities, diverse in demographics, needs, capabilities, and locations.” … “Fair warning, these libraries really cannot be replicated. What makes them work is that they are all hand made for their unique communities. “
• USA – Confronting white nationalism in libraries: a toolkit – Western States Center. “This toolkit is designed to help readers counter multiple forms of organized bigotry. This includes organizing that draws on anti-Blackness, anti-Indigenous bigotry, anti-immigrant bigotry, anti-Muslim bigotry, antisemitism, misogyny, and anti-LGBTQ+ bigotry.”

Local news by authority

• Bradford – Virtual reality will allow library visitors to step into city’s past – Telegraph and Argus. “There will be six Virtual Reality experiences available using a virtual reality headset and members of the public can expect to find themselves experiencing life as a rebellious teenager as she discovers her mother’s punk past – or they can take part in one of the many South Asian daytime raves that took place across the UK in the 1980s and 1990s, and hear what earlier generations thought life would be like today.”
• Brighton and Hove – Plan to close library on Saturdays released as result of ‘administrative error’ – Yahoo News. “Mr Hawtree, who plans to stand again for the Greens in Central Hove at the local elections in May, said: “Glad to say that reports of a closing day at Hove’s Carnegie Library hours are misplaced. We need hours, librarians – and good book stocks.””
  • Fight to save library threatened with closure as part of council cost cutting plans – Yahoo News. “Two Independent councillors are trying to save a library from closure as the council prepares to decide a number of cuts in its budget for the coming financial year. North Portslade councillors Anne Pissaridou and Peter Atkinson are battling to keep Mile Oak Library open.”
• Buckinghamshire – Bucks libraries fines amnesty set to end soon – Bucks Free Press. The public will be fined again for not returning books by a specified time from 28 February.
• Beaconsfield Community Association fights to keep library newspapers – Bucks Free Press. “The Beaconsfield Community Association has continued to pay for copies of Bucks Free Press and The Week at Beaconsfield Library. The move comes after Buckinghamshire Council discontinued hardcopies of newspapers and magazines at Council-run libraries following a survey it ran in August last year. The Council cited an increase in the use of digital newspapers and magazines as a reason for the change.”
• Cambridgeshire – Cambridgeshire Libraries’ talk on LGBT history proves the importance of remembering – Cambridge News.
• Cardiff – Protesters march through Cardiff to oppose plans for St David’s Hall and libraries – Wales Online. “Protesters marched through Cardiff city centre on Saturday afternoon to oppose plans to cut spending on beloved cultural institutions. Cardiff council’s recent budget consultation survey laid out proposals to privatise St David’s Hall, close the Cardiff Story Museum and cut library opening hours.” … “Speeches from Welsh authors, musicians, conservationists, trade unionists and anti-austerity campaigners followed, including children’s author and poet Mike Church and Alice Shing, who was integral in the campaign to save Cardiff’s Roath library in 2015. Ms Shing spoke of the benefits public libraries offer to new mums, young families and people vulnerable to mental health problems.”
• Cheshire East – Cheshire East hoping reduced library hours will be temporary – Knutsford Guardian. “The proposal to reduce the opening hours and to close on Saturdays met with an angry response from the public during the consultation period. As a result the proposal to close on Saturdays was dropped. At Wednesday’s meeting of the full council, when the budget was approved, Cllr Mick Warren, chair of the environment and communities committee, said: “By reducing the opening hours in our libraries we will be able to make substantial savings in this year’s budget and help balance the MTFS (mid-term financial strategy 2023-7).”
  • Public anger aired over CEC plan to reduce library opening times – Nantwich News. “Apart from issuing books, [the libraries] already process blue badges, bus pass applications, take council payments, undertake DBS checks for taxi drivers, verify evidence for benefit applicants, take homeless enquiries and, of course, signpost residents to other sources of help,” he said. “By increasing our offer of services in libraries in future years, I believe this will enable them to return to full-time hours as has happened in other authorities.””
• Cheshire West and Chester – CWAC libraries ready for World Book Day 2023 – So Counties. “Library teams have been busy organising fancy dress swap events and are now getting ready to exchange thousands of new books on Saturday 4th March. The vouchers will be given out for free to children in schools, nurseries and other settings across the borough on Thursday 2nd March 2023, which is World Book Day.”
• Derby – Roar-some reads for all the family – Derby Council. “Let’s go on a dinosaur discovery adventure with Derby Libraries’ Big Family Read. Join in from Mon 20 Feb to Sat 1 Apr with the Roar-some reading theme of dinosaurs! This reading challenge aims to encourage families across Derby with children aged three to 11, to read for fun with events, activities, and a book competition.”
• East Lothian – New app for library users allows you to choose your next book ‘on the move’ – East Lothian Council. Spydus.
• East Riding – Flotsam and Jetsom wash up in East Riding Libraries at Willerby, Haltemprice, and North Bridlington in March – East Riding Council. Lempen Puppet Theatre.  Adult £6, Children £3.
• Gloucestershire – Gloucestershire libraries to celebrate World Book Day – Gloucester Bid. Author events, fancy dress.
• Greenwich – Free mobile sim card boost for hard-up Greenwich residents – London News Online. “sim cards to eligible residents through Greenwich Supports, the council’s cost of living campaign, and the Good Things Foundation, which promotes digital access for the disadvantaged.  “
• Gwynedd – Council invests cash in library services – Cambrian News. £60,000 from the Welsh Government’s Library Transformation Capital Fund. “a space to better display books and the public computer section has been moved. The Children’s Section has been transformed” … “Petha Penygroes service has been launched at Penygroes Library. ‘Petha’ is a new project in Gwynedd which seeks to establish a Library of Things in three communities throughout the county,”
• Haringey – Alexandra Park Library to reopen following improvement works – Haringey Council. “Library users will benefit from an improved and more accessible local library with a new lift, accessible toilets, new lighting, IT upgrades and redecoration of all interior spaces, including a revamped children’s library. A new electric piano has also been installed as part of Haringey Council’s partnership with Casio to introduce electric pianos in all the borough’s libraries”
• Inverclyde – Port Glasgow Library closing for maintenance work – Inverclyde Council.
• Jersey – Library launches new pet therapy scheme – BBC. “Staff said the event on Thursday was a success, and hope it will become a regular service. Run by Therapy Dogs Nationwide, their work is aimed at helping people with loneliness, anxiety and stress by sharing time with the animals. Ed Jewell, chief librarian, said “anyone can pop along” – and pick up a book at the same time.”
• Kirklees – World Book Day 2023 Live Lesson comes to Batley Library – Kirklees Council. “Production company The Connected Set will be at Batley Library on Wednesday 01 March, when the library is usually closed, for rehearsals before the live lesson is broadcast the next day.  The library will be closed to the public on Thursday 2 March for filming. The Library will reopen on Friday 3 March for business as usual.”
• Lambeth – Smart borrowing for jobseekers – Love Lambeth. “Brixton Library and ihateironing laundry and drycleaning service have relaunched their partnership to help low-income residents dress for success in  job interviews.”
• Lancashire – Kirkham Library temporarily shuts its doors for roof repairs – Lancashire Council. “The temporary closure is due to essential repair work being undertaken on the roof of the library. This is to allow stage one of a two-stage repair of the roof to take place.”
• Manchester – Manchester rated ‘Excellent’ by UNESCO as a Creative City of Literature – University of Manchester. “The city’s annual week-long Festival of Libraries was described as “a most impressive initiative… [attracting] great attention both locally and internationally”. “
• North Somerset – Join the celebration at North Somerset libraries this World Book Day – North Somerset Council. “Children who have not received a £1 World Book Day token at school will be able to collect one from their local library. Children aged up to four years old will be able to collect a free book at a North Somerset library when they borrow books on their library card.” Themed rhymetimes and storytimes.
• North Yorkshire – Join online library chat with best-selling thriller writer – North Yorkshire Council. Simon Scarrow.
  • North Yorkshire Under-Fives week: Libraries to host events – Gazette Herald.
  • Scarborough Man’s Club Find Temporary Home as Library Closes – This Is The Coast. “£450,000 will be spent on Scarborough Library during a major refit which will include work to the Children’s Library, a new IT area and a community and exhibition space.”
• Northern Ireland – Celebrate World Book Day 2023 with Libraries NI – News Letter. Events.
• Nottinghamshire – New £741,000 Library Learning Facility for Nottinghamshire town – West Bridgford Wire. “The Library Learning Facility project is one of six regeneration projects being funded through the £21.1m Stapleford Towns Fund. The existing town library, owned by the County Council, and run by Inspire will be remodelled, creating more space for new entry level skills education and training, allowing residents with little or no formal qualifications to take their first step, within their local community, on their lifelong learning journey.”
• Portsmouth – Portsmouth librarian shortlisted for prestigious national award – Portsmouth Council. Libraries Connected Awards: “Portsmouth librarian, Julie Duffy, has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award for the innovative work she has undertaken in Portsmouth City Council’s libraries for over 20 years, making them more accessible to people who are blind or vision impaired.”
• Rotherham – Rotherham: Libraries begin self-service trial – BBC. “Mowbray Gardens Library and Brinsworth Community Library in Rotherham will open on a self-serve basis at times when they would normally be closed.”
• Sheffield – Backlash over transgender cartoonist with a fetish for nappy art who is set to speak to teenage children and families at library about her book ‘The Best of Assigned Male’ – Mail. Conservative MP and newspaper furious at adult author event where 13+ can attend. see also Sophie Labelle Sheffield: Trans cartoonist who made ‘diaperfur’ art responds to MP’s concerns over event at library – Star. “Ms Labelle previously tweeted: “I made some diaperfur art. I have a kink I indulge responsibly and I refuse to be shamed for it. The people shoving my art and my life into everyone’s face are bad-faith actors looking for an excuse to attack a trans woman.”
• Solihull – Solihull librarian shortlisted for prestigious national award – Solihull Council. Libraries Connected Awards: “Solihull Heritage and Local Studies librarian Tracey Williams has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award which celebrates the achievements of library workers.”
• Stoke on Trent – Celebrate World Book Day at Stoke-on-Trent Libraries – Stoke On Trent Council. Storytimes.
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries’ wellbeing champions shortlisted for prestigious national award – Suffolk Libraries. Libraries Connected Awards: “Laura Parker, Suffolk Libraries’ Director of People and Culture, and Jane Cox, Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager have been jointly shortlisted under the Health & Wellbeing category for their work to coordinate and energise Suffolk Libraries Wellbeing Champions staff group.”
  • Paws-itivity campaign gets a big boost from a mystery local artist and a new sponsor – Suffolk libraries. “The Hat has generously created and donated a wonderful piece of Labrador-shaped artwork called Cyril, wearing a signature style hat. Suffolk Libraries are hoping the sale of the artwork will boost the total money raised when this and the dog sculptures are auctioned at Trinity Park on 12 October.”
• Swindon – Old Town Library 2017 to 2023 – Community Libraries Network. Volunteer library has increase in staff and loans. New library planned. Multiple events.
• Telford and Wrekin – iPad Lending Library comes to Newport – Telford and Wrekin Council. “Anyone over the age of 18 who has a Telford and Wrekin Library Card can borrow an iPad from Newport or Southwater Libraries, free of charge, for up to four weeks at a time. The loan also includes data too, so borrowers won’t incur any costs.” … “The Library iPad Lending Scheme is part of a wider project, supported by £326,000 funding as part of Telford & Wrekin Council’s £28million On Your Side investment, to address digital exclusion and help more people in the borough access the internet.”
• Warwickshire – Visit Warwickshire Libraries this half-term to enjoy a week packed full of children’s dinosaur-themed activities – Warwickshire Council.
• West Berkshire – ‘Staffing is so lean that casual cover is needed for every staff absence’ – Newbury Today. “West Berkshire’s libraries are at breaking point because of lack of funding and an over reliance on volunteer staff. A report to the council’s executive committee says the current funding model, which relies on voluntary contributions from parish and town councils in order to deliver a balanced budget, needs to be urgently reviewed. The libraries budget and staffing reduced in 2017 by 44 per cent. The revised budget for libraries was set at £1,046,000 for the new library service, a cut of £690,000.”
• Wiltshire – Wiltshire libraries provide warm space during cost-of-living crisis – Salisbury Journal. “So far more than 1,000 packs have been provided; each contains a hot water bottle, blanket and thermal mug.”. Council-funded.
• Wirral – Proposals to close Wirral libraries and playgrounds thrown out by councillors – Liverpool World. “The proposals will now be debated by all councillors on February 27 and looks likely to pass with support from the Liberal Democrats and the Greens who voted to move the budget forward with Labour.”
• Worcestershire – No market, library relocation and Parkinson’s audit – This weeks Redditch Standard letters – Redditch Standard / Letters. ” Mr Dormer has to listen to all of the residents of Redditch who are saying they do not want the library to be demolished. By moving it to the Town Hall, it is way from any meaningful footfall but most of all they will be diminishing the library space on one single reason – they have not allowed any space whatsoever for the provision of computers. But they are still saying that the space will increase.”

Editorial

Two bits of news catch my eye today. The first is the, wow, £500 million going to the British Library in London. That’s more than half what goes into the entire national public library service each year. On the one hand, it’s great to see such a massive investment in libraries and, it’s of course not government money that would otherwise have gone to public libraries. That is, the sector has lost nothing from it and may well gain in some ways. On the other hand, that’s because almost government funding almost never goes to public libraries instead. If I was being hyper-cynical I’d point out that the 100,000 new square foot represents ten square feet for each of the 10,000 public library staff lost over the last decade. But I am of course a massive optimist. Yay. And even though it’s a very handy short walk away from Euston, the three hour journey and £150 return cost (if I’m lucky) will tend to put me off visiting to admire it. So I don’t think it’s going to help Levelling Up North. But, on the whole, well done and best wishes to the British Library. They have been more aware of public libraries recently, what with business centres and webinars and the work on (launch any time now, honest) LibraryOn, the Single Digital Presence. And, after all, library sector beggars can’t be choosers.

The other bit of news is the censoring of a nursery rhyme, Five Little Monkeys, in Scottish Book Bug sessions. It appears to have some “historical racist intent”. I’ve not heard it for years and now I know why I guess. But it brings me on to a thought I’ve been having for a while. And that is, weirdly, the explosion of information on the internet has led to an increase in demands for restricting freedom from all sides and all reasons. We see this most notably in the Land Of The Free, where there are ongoing bans and challenges to pretty much any book your average Christian Extremist or Far Righter does not disagree with. And, on the other side, there are “Woke” challenges to a whole bunch of other stuff. This is going on while in what used to be the Soviet Bloc, Russia is busy getting rid of any Ukrainian books and Ukraine is busy dumping Russian books. Don’t get me wrong, I know which side I’m on in both cases (and it ain’t with the Proud Boys and Vladimir Putin) but in a world where one can be called a groomer for not thinking a drag queen is an automatic paedophile (I think that sums up the argument) it’s great to see Ireland resisting attempts to remove books. Freedom comes with a cost and it’s unfortunately the public library sector that is starting to pay.

Changes by local authority

• Brighton and Hove – Mile Oak Library may close in £35k cut.
• Medway – Lordswood Library becomes “community hub”
• Worcestershire – Possible £178k cut for Warndon and St John’s libraries

National news

• 3 Essential Components Of The Library – Princh. Staff, events/programmes, IT.
• Alan Hopkinson IFLA Conference Award 2023 – IFLA. “This Award enables a CILIP member in their early career (full criteria below) to experience the IFLA Congress.  The Award covers the whole cost of the IFLA conference fee and £100 towards travel and accommodation.”
• The British Library doesn’t need £500m – but local libraries do – Guardian / Letters. “Since 2010 almost 800 local libraries have been closed across the UK, with the loss of 10,000 staff, and many surviving libraries are at best part-time. Against this backdrop, it is staggering to read that an investment of £500m has been proposed for the British Library (Green light given for huge British Library extension, 3 February). Communities all over the country are being deprived of free access to not only books and information, but also the internet …” see also British Library extension given green light by Camden Council – Built Environment Networking. 100,000 extra square foot.

• Community Managed Libraries Map – Community Managed Libraries National Peer Network. Google Map of volunteer libraries. [Not entirely accurate – Ed.]
• Funding fears: Libraries should be staffed like any other council service – Yahoo News. ” Professor Peter Reid says free access to books remains fundamentally important in a civilised society. The professor of librarianship at Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University added that while it might be a time of crisis for local government finances, libraries can and do evolve.”
• GLL-operated libraries battle digital exclusion with free SIM card scheme – GLL (press release). “More than 60 libraries operated by charitable social enterprise GLL, have this week launched a scheme to provide nearly 16,000 free SIM cards to residents on low incomes and those who are struggling with the cost of living. Libraries located in London’s Bromley, Greenwich and Wandsworth, along with those in Dudley and Lincolnshire will be distributing the cards, building on GLL’s existing Warm Spaces initiative – set up to support those struggling to afford sharp rises in utility bills. The ability to offer free SIM cards is the result of a successful application to the Good Things Foundation and courtesy of mobile phone network operators 3, 02 and Vodafone.”
• Libraries vital for new and growing businesses, briefing reveals – Libraries Connected. “Our new briefing, ‘Supporting Business and Enterprise’, shows that public libraries are central to realising this ambition. Through Business & IP Centres and other localised services, the library network has become one of the country’s most effective and accessible sources of support for new and growing businesses. As the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee recently put it, libraries act as “engines for entrepreneurship, economic growth and job creation””
• Make Music Day 2023 – Libraries Meet Up – EventBrite. Tuesday 14 March, 4pm, online. “Make Music Day is an annual set of free music events taking place in venues and public spaces – from town squares to libraries, bandstands to school halls and arts centres. It takes place on the longest day of the year – on 21 June.”
• Nursery rhymes banned in Scottish library events over ‘historical racism’ fears – Telegraph. “Popular “Bookbug” sessions are held for young children across Scotland with the support of the Scottish Book Trust, the Holyrood-backed charity which has told libraries and nurseries hosting these events that certain songs should no longer be sung. Despite having lyrics unrelated to race, Five Little Monkeys has been banned because it has “historical racist intent”.”
• Public Libraries 2022: Netloan Customer Survey Results – Lorensbergs. “Average footfall has reached nearly 70% of pre-Covid levels, up from around 50% at end of 2021″
• Public Libraries Project of the Year Grant – National Acquisitions Group. “£5,000 available for a project from a NAG Member library.”
• Tricky decisions as Scotland’s councils face budget shortfalls – BBC. “Individual local authorities have shortfalls ranging from around £7m in the Scottish Borders to £120m at Glasgow City Council, according to research by the BBC.”

International news

• Ireland – Dublin libraries to keep books by trans author despite attempts to remove them – GCN. “Recognising the importance of including LGBTQ+ storytelling in their children and teen sections, Dublin libraries have confirmed that the books will stay.” but “A Local Government Management Agency public libraries spokesperson said that the Government’s National LGBTQ+ Inclusion Strategy for 2019-2021 included a call for, “…public libraries to compile an LGBTQ+ reading list and update it on an ongoing basis, [and] these books are part of that list”.”
• Ukraine – Ukraine purges libraries of Russian-language books – official – Russian Times. Russian-owned news website seeks to put it’s own views of removal of books from Ukrainian libraries. see also Ukraine withdraws 19 million Russian, Soviet-era books from libraries – Reuters for a somewhat less slanted version and Ukraine war: Russia is ‘erasing Ukrainian history’ by ransacking libraries and burning books – I. For when the boot is on the other foot: “Russian forces and proxy authorities have been removing 365 named texts from libraries and schools as part of a process of ‘Russification’ of occupied territories”.
• USA – A librarian’s frontline view of Florida’s ‘vetting’ process for school books, and the titles being banned – Independent. “The library is now closed off, the shelves are empty, and her job now mostly consists of “vetting” piles of books to comply with new censorship laws implemented by the state of Florida.” … “Among the titles that have been removed and banned in the course of the vetting in her school district are Toni Morrison’s ‘The Bluest Eye,’ ‘The Kite Runner’ by Khaled Hosseini, ‘The Stranger’ by Albert Camus, ‘Revolting Rhymes’ by Roald Dahl, and a skateboarding magazine called ‘Thrasher’.”
  • Limiting library books has long-term consequences – Washington Post / Opinion. ” If librarians can’t purchase these books, publishers will not publish them and authors will not write them. We might lose voices that are much needed in this time of great division in our country. Those who are marginalized will be even more unseen, and difficult topics such as racial injustice and prejudice will become even more ignored.”
  • The EveryLibrary Institute’s 2022 Annual Report – EveryLibrary. Highlights censorship.
  • Why libraries should include media literacy training for adults – Press Reader. Trust in social media, false/unproven claims, education combats misinformation, generation gap in technology, courses for older students, lifelong learning, critical thinking.

Local news by authority

• Angus – Grant to help libraries better serve isolated communities – Angus World. £11k grant. “The Angus project will target those who are geographically isolated and unable to travel to and engage with libraries in the county’s main burghs.”
• Bath and North East Somerset – Ukrainian pictures go up for children in B&NES libraries – Bath and North East Somerset Council. “The ABC pictures are going up in the children’s section of Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton Libraries.”
• Bradford – Keighley Library to host sessions for SEND families – Keighley News. “There will be multi-sensory storytelling, and large-print braille books, sensory toys and comic booklets will be available”
• Brighton and Hove – Library earmarked for closure as councillors look to close budget gap of £14m – Yahoo Sport. “Mile Oak library is earmarked for closure – a move that could save Brighton and Hove City Council £35,000 a year, according to a budget report. Last year the council explored moving the library, in Chalky Road, Portslade, into a room in the nearby sports centre, which was being used by two snooker leagues…. just 150 people visit Mile Oak library a month, compared with 3,500 five years ago and as many as 1,000 a month before the coronavirus pandemic.”
• Cheshire East – Cutting CEC library hours will hit less fortunate, councillors warn – Nantwich News. “Macclesfield councillor Ashley Farrall (Lab) said: “It’s important to know libraries aren’t just there for books, they’re community hubs, they’re safe spaces, they’re quiet spaces for people that may not have a home where it’s quiet to study, to get on with their school work etc.”. Council says ” we have to find £20m from somewhere.” see also Cheshire East asked to re-think plan to reduce library hours – Knutsford Guardian.
• Cheshire West and Chester – Founding CEO of Chester’s Storyhouse to step down after 17 years – Cheshire Live. Andrew Bentley leaves.

• Derby – Derby library ‘closures timetable’ circulated as 10 community-managed branches face axe – Derby Telegraph. “The future of Derby’s ten community-managed libraries remains uncertain as a report going to the council cabinet next week proposes that they should remain open until the end of July 23, under the control of charity Direct Help and Advice (DHA) and at a cost of up to £108,000.”
• East Riding – East Riding Libraries partnering with the Marine Conservation Society this February half term – East Riding Council.
• East Sussex – 5,000 books missing from libraries in East Sussex – Sussex Express. Amnesty: “From February 13 – March 31 if you return an overdue book you won’t be fined.”
• Hampshire – Chat about loneliness at Petersfield, Alton and Bordon libraries – Petersfield Post. “Joining a Chat About scheme is an easy way to get started in opening up if you’re having a tough time, feeling lonely or if you want to connect with others”
• Manchester – Manchester Libraries PLUS survey opens – Manchester Council. “The last time the survey was conducted [in 2020], 90.9% of customers rated their libraries overall as good and very good. 81% of respondents who reported feeling lonely some of the time or often, said that using the library helped to reduce these feelings. “
• Medway – Creating a new community hub in Lordswood – Medway Council. “The library in Kestrel Road will close from Monday, 20 February and the new hub is due to open this summer. Once completed, residents will able to visit the new look community hub for help with their blue badge and bus pass applications, book bulky waste collections and pay for council services such as rent and council tax.”

• North Somerset – New Lego rental scheme launches at Somerset libraries – Somerset Live. “Themed Lego boxes in stock include ‘under the sea’, ‘houses’, ‘wheels’, ‘outdoors/gardens’, ‘pink’, and ‘mix and match’. There are 32 boxes of Lego, one box of Duplo, and one box of Stickle Bricks. Every box comes with learning activity sheets as part of the council’s involvement in the Lego: Build a world of play project.”
• North Tyneside – UK Woman Who Kept Library Book For 56 Years Finally Returns It – NDTV. The media continues to love this almost-once-per-week story. see also Woman kept overdue library book for 56 years over 3p fine – but now it’s far worse – Mirror. ” Lesley moved away from the area and was too scared to return it because she couldn’t afford the late fees – with 3p being charged every week it was in her possession.”
• Nottinghamshire – Fire investigation launched after blaze at Beeston Library – West Bridgford Wire. “A fire investigation determined that the fire was deliberate, and a joint investigation with Nottinghamshire Police is underway.” … “We apologise that in the short term, we will have no customer toilets, some events and activities may be affected and study space reduced”
• Stirling – How people power delivered £1m library for Strathblane community – Herald Scotland. “Strathblane resident and businessman Angus Graham, Thomas’ great great nephew, generously donated almost three quarters towards the £1million project with the rest of the money being raised through the community and grant aid.” and says “”I helped with the easy part, it is the Strathblane Community Development Trust which has had the hard part. “
• Suffolk – Menopause and Me – Suffolk Libraries needs your help – Suffolk Libraries. “Local employers are being asked to fill in a short survey to help Suffolk Libraries understand what support already exists for employees experiencing the menopause and how Menopause & Me can help. The survey will be open until the end of March.”
  • Essential maintenance work to take place at Woodbridge Library – Suffolk Libraries. “The inside walls will be replastered and decorated, and some of the exterior windows will also be repaired.”

• Tameside – What Tameside libraries have to offer – Quest Media Network. Standard library offerings plus “ow part of the Good Things Foundation National Databank, which can offer free SIM cards to adults who cannot afford to access the internet”
• Warwickshire – Love is in the air! Explore our unique ceremony venue next to Shakespeare’s Birthplace during Stratford ‘Library Lovers Week’ – Warwickshire Council. “xplore the library’s great collection of love stories and novels, and even be matched up on a ‘blind date’ with a brilliant new book to read. Staff will be sharing the love each day by carrying out random acts of library kindness for visitors …”
• Wirral – Thousands ask council not to close ‘historic and vital’ library – Liverpool Echo. “Thousands have signed petitions calling for Wirral Council not to close Wallasey Central Library in its current form.”

“The Minister talks about the terrible circumstances in Ukraine and the events of the last year, but he must recognise that the scale of the cuts since 2010 have been devastating for our local authorities, which have had to consider closing libraries, swimming pools, leisure centres and so forth. Can he confirm that it is in fact more of a long-term problem and that we need greater investment in our public services?”

Margaret Greenwood MP Labour, Wirral West

• Worcestershire – Threat to city’s libraries as ‘lifeline’ funding set to be pulled – Yahoo News. “The future of some of the city’s libraries could be thrown into doubt as part of a plan to cut ‘lifeline’ funding. Worcester City Council pledged to supply £157,000 to Worcestershire County Council every year as part of a deal to keep services running at Warndon and St John’s libraries in 2019. But now city council bosses are discussing pulling the plug on the agreement and leaving the county to fund the service.”
• York – Dringhouses library faces temporary closure for heating repairs – Press. “Due to issues with the heating system at Dringhouses Library, York Explore Libraries & Archives has notified councillors of plans to temporarily close the library from Monday February 13 until the end of the month. Ward councillors have raised concerns about the impact of the temporary closure on the local community and have asked for an urgent meeting with Explore to discuss possible temporary solutions which would ensure that staff, volunteers and residents can safely access vital services.”

Editorial

Well, after writing Public Libraries News since 2010, I sometimes think I have seen it all. And then I see Midlothian’s propose to replace all front-line staff with self-service machines and volunteers. That’s pretty gobsmacking in itself, honestly, but then it goes on to say that the council is planning to remove its printed books budget and rely on e-books instead. Anyone who knows the cost of e-books to libraries would be a bit surprised about how this could be presented as a saving but one suspects the council may not have entirely thought things through. The whole thing makes very little sense but then Midlothian has some history here, with an attempt to 2017 to get rid of all but one of those pesky hearts of the community and literacy cluttering Scotland that save people and show a way to a better life. That was silly enough but not buying printed books? What do I think of that? Well, like a Midlothian library in a few years, I have no words.

Changes by local authority

• Midlothian – Proposed £750k cut over 3 years inc. replacing all staff with self-service / volunteers and stopping printed books budget, relying on e-books.
• North Yorkshire – £450k refurbishment of Scarborough Library.
• Nottinghamshire – £741k funding for Stapleford Library.
• West Lothian – 4 libraries (West Calder, Craig Inn, Almondbank and Pumpherston) may close.

National news

• Books by Babalola and Olusoga part of Reading Agency’s Mark My Words library campaign – BookSeller. “A set of the eight books will be given to 701 library branches across 31 authorities nationwide, including Bradford, East Lothian, Leicester, Newcastle, Rochdale and Jersey. The books, 5,608 in total, will be available to borrow from late January.”

“I had no money growing up. My dad was a labourer and my mum did everything to make ends meet. Men worked hard. Women worked miracles. But education was free. As was the local library. I knew books were my passport to a better life. #SupportLibraries“

Ricky Gervaise

• Controversial UK politician slams Tate for hosting children’s drag queen storytime session – Art Newspaper. Conservative Party life peer Emma Nicholson describes Aida H Dee session as “nonsense on stilts” and equates “drag queens with “murderers, paedophiles, terrorists, furries and other fetishists”.

• Do we need a Wales Libraries Act? – IWA. “While everyone must recognise that the UK government policy of systematically underfunding both devolved and local government to shrink the local state is at the core of our crumbling local services, surely a Labour administration in Wales should go the extra mile in defence of public libraries that could soon become an endangered species?”
• In praise of “slow librarianship” – Nick Poole. “‘faster’ doesn’t necessarily equate to ‘better’ when it comes to helping people find real answers to real questions.”
• Kerry Hudson: Libraries were a lifesaver for me – Herald Scotland. ” I don’t mean, ‘lifesaver’ as in, ‘Thank goodness I can order that new crime novel or use the wifi or shelter from the rain’. I mean without them I wouldn’t be writing in these pages. I wouldn’t be alive at all.”

“The news that Midlothian Council intends to implement cuts to the service that they say will create a total saving of £750,000 pounds over three years is bewildering to me. I’m no politician but you have to wonder whether the economy of saving £250,000 annually weighs up If you consider that the risk is not just losing a library but unofficial, and occasionally official, mother and baby support groups, outreach centres for elderly people, literacy, IT and benefits coaching hubs and, during this cost of living crisis, warm banks too.”

Kerry Hudson

• Libraries and homelessness – Libraries Connected. Wednesday 1 March, 11am, webinar. “Discover some of the innovative work being done within libraries to ensure they meet the needs and expectations of people experiencing homelessness. London Libraries members will reflect on their pioneering homelessness training programme, while representatives of the Reading Agency and Homeless Link will discuss their own work in this area. “
• Libraries Connected Innovation Network Gathering 2023 – Libraries Connected. Thursday 2 March, 10am to 4pm, Birmingham.
• MozFest bursary applications now open for library staff – Libraries Connected. Six bursaries. “The Mozilla Festival, affectionately known as MozFest, is hosted by the Mozilla Foundation, it is a celebration for, by, and about people who love the internet, showcasing world-changing ideas and technology through exhibitions, talks and interactive sessions.”

• Ringfenced teacher spending will force us to cut children’s services, councils warn – Times (paywall).
• Universal Library Offer Virtual Seminar 2023 – Programme – Libraries Connected. Tuesday 14 March 10am to 4.30pm, online. £100 for an organisational ticket (for up to 20 people), or £20 for an individual ticket (excl. VAT).
• Welcome to Libraries induction pack – CILIP. Free download. “Welcome to Libraries is a magazine-style guide funded by Arts Council England, designed to impart valuable insights and links for frontline public library staff and welcome you into your new role, providing the information you need as you begin your career journey.”

International news

• USA – Before book-banning wave, the FBI spied on people’s library activity – Washington Post. “The first evidence of FBI surveillance of libraries came in January 1971, when two agents visited the home of Zoia Horn, chief reference librarian at Bucknell University in Pennsylvania. …”

Local news by authority

• Barnsley – Libraries – They’re Not Just For Books – Camerados. “Since opening, our Public Living Room has been busy, and staff have commented that they have seen many an intense game of connect four taking place in the space. Our communities have come together and filled in postcards, sat and chatted over a drink they brought in from the café next door. Someone has even left a copy of The Happy News newspaper for others to read to spread some positivity.”
• Bolton – Free wellbeing workshops for body and mind on offer – Yahoo News. “The 90 minute “interactive and engaging” workshops will include discussions around the differences between physical health and mental health and wellbeing”
• Bradford – Discounted baby photo shoots at Bradford library – Telegraph and Argus. “As part of a push to get more children reading, babies can be signed up to join libraries at Registry Offices at Bradford and Keighley. Bradford City Library has now joined forces with award-winning photographer Tim Simpson who will run Photo Booth sessions once a month. Tickets, at a discounted cost of £5, can be booked online via Ticket Source and will include a 30-minute photo booth slot and an 8 x 6” colour photograph of the baby. “
• Bristol – Bristol Central Library could relocate in the future, council member says – BBC. “Plans to move Bristol’s Central Library on College Green were raised in mayor Marvin Rees’s draft budget in November but scrapped following an outcry. But council cabinet member Ellie King has refused to rule out moving the library, saying the Grade I-listed building was not fit for purpose. She said libraries should be seen as “a service, not a building”.
• Cheshire East – “Shocking” CEC Labour plan to close libraries on Saturdays – Nantwich News / Letter. “Labour-run Cheshire East are proposing to shut libraries on a Saturday and reduce opening hours on other days.”
• Cheshire West and Chester Council tax for 2023 could go up to the maximum – Cheshire Live. “. Libraries and social care are also among a wide range of council services due to come under the spotlight”

• Coventry – Coventry Library Service given sanctuary award – Coventry Observer. “Libraries of Sanctuary aims to inspire, support and promote the use of public libraries as places of welcome for those seeking sanctuary in the UK.”
• Devon – Get cosy this winter with blockbuster films at Devon’s libraries – Devon Live. “Libraries across Devon are continuing their must-see film programme this year, with ‘Films at the Library’. Screened by Libraries Unlimited throughout February”. Eight libraries involved, Arts Council funding.
  • ‘Devon’s libraries are helping people through the winter’ – Exmouth Journal. “We’re already hearing anecdotal evidence that people are using our libraries differently this winter and it’s extremely good news that Libraries Unlimited have secured funding to extend the opening hours of some libraries until the end of March.”. National Grid funding.
  • Grief brought to life in Paignton Library art and music project – Torbay Weekly. “Libraries Unlimited launched the Finding Connection Through Loss project in libraries across Torbay and Devon early last year with Arts Council England funding.”
• Dorset -These are the five Dorset libraries lending iPads for up to six weeks – Bridport News. “Dorset Council is working with the Citizen’s Advice charity and the Department for Work and Pensions on the pilot scheme. The iPads will aim to help people search and apply for jobs online and the devices can also be used to access online training to gain skills and knowledge. “
• Dudley – Pensioner escapes £42,000 fine after returning book 58 years late – Metro. “A pensioner has returned an overdue library book 58 years late – after racking up a whopping £42,340 in late fees. David Hickman was just 17 when he borrowed ‘The Law for Motorists’ in 1964.”

“I raise the plight of the Peacehaven and Telscombe conurbation, which has more than 23,000 people, with no further education provision, high levels of free school meals and pupil premium, and, despite improvements, below average rates of literacy and numeracy. Despite that, the county council wishes to downgrade the library from 900 square metres to 300 square metres and to reduce its opening times. Will the Minister join me in calling for libraries of an appropriate size in large towns? Will the Department publish statutory guidelines on the square meterage and opening times expected per population for large towns?”

East Sussex – Lloyd Russell-Moyle Labour/Co-operative, Brighton, Kemptown

As the hon. Gentleman says, public libraries are run by local authorities, so it is up to each local authority to identify the needs of local residents. DCMS has previously received representations about the relocation of Peacehaven library and we have engaged with the local authority to understand the plans and their implications. The Secretary of State has a statutory power to intervene by way of a local inquiry if she considers that a local authority is not providing a comprehensive and efficient library service. That is taken seriously, so if a complaint is received, the Department will challenge the council and evidence will be carefully considered before it is decided whether a local inquiry is needed.

Paul Scully The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport

• Essex – Essex Library Service announces first Author in Residence – Essex Council. “The author of the Essex Witch Museum Mysteries will be visiting libraries across Essex over the next six months”
• Hillingdon – Story Detectives comes to Hillingdon libraries – Hillingdon Times. Half-term children’s theatre.
• Inverclyde – Local libraries increase loan limit of Borrowbox service – Greenock Telegraph. “Library users can now borrow five eBooks or eAudio titles at a time.”
• Merton – Highest ever customer satisfaction rates for Merton libraries – Merton Council. “100% of residents are satisfied with library services, and 96% of residents rate library services as ‘very good’ or ‘good’. The survey results demonstrate the views of over 1,600 residents that took part in the customer satisfaction survey in October 2022”

• Midlothian – Library services could face the axe through council’s £14million budget crisis – Yahoo News. “would mean replacing public library staff with self service and all future physical books with e-books as well as removing all school librarians. The moves would save £750,000 in three years, but critics of the proposals say this is a clear sign of the perilous state of local authority finance. It is feared this is just the beginning of severe cuts to library services across Scotland as local authorities balance the needs and priorities of services they offer.”
• Norfolk – Digifest returns for a 4th year – Norfolk Council. “Throughout the whole of February there will be lots of events taking place across the library service for children aged four to 14. Some events are one-off specials, such as a Lego Stop-Motion event, and the chance to use the Codeapillar or a Coding Critter to start learning about programming. There will also be a chance to have a taster session of the Code Club”
• North Ayrshire – North Ayrshire’s libraries invite residents to share their stories – Arran Banner.
• North Yorkshire – Scarborough Library to undergo £450,000 renovation – Northern Echo.”£250,000 of the funding has come from North Yorkshire County Council, while the remaining £200,000 has been granted by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sports/Arts Council England Libraries Improvement Fund.”
  • Ey Up! – local project celebrates Yorkshire dialect – Yahoo News. “The library service secured funding from the Arts Council and the Dialect and Heritage Project last year to run a series of workshops with “hard-to-reach” residents. Added funding from the council also helped to launch the Ey Up! Project, which involved young people, military veterans and those with mental health issues.”
  • Malton library to temporarily close for energy renovations – Northern Echo. “part of a range of measures being introduced by North Yorkshire County Council to help cut carbon dioxide emissions in the region, following the replacement of the library’s windows as a result of UK Government funding to increase public sector decarbonisation.”
• Nottinghamshire – Huge improvements planned for Stapleford library – Notts TV. “Broxtowe Borough Council has been awarded £741,000 in Government funding for the project as part of the Stapleford Town Deal. This first phase of plans is hoped to be complete by late May 2023.”
• Pembrokeshire – Pembrokeshire libraries scoop award for commitment to unpaid carers – Yahoo News. “All of the libraries and associated services have achieved their Investors in Carers Silver Level award.”
• Shropshire – Bridgnorth schoolpupils to help mark Holocaust Memorial Day tomorrow – Shropshire Council. “Shropshire Libraries will be showing the HMD film about the theme Ordinary People in the foyers at Shrewsbury Library and in Ludlow Library.”
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries announces its first ever patrons – Suffolk Libraries. “Emma Freud, Michaela Doherty and Gina Long have kindly agreed to lend their name and support to Suffolk Libraries. Emma Freud is Executive Producer of Comic Relief, was a co-creator of Make Poverty History and the Live 8 concerts and was awarded an OBE for services to the charitable sector. Michaela Doherty is the Managing Director of Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park. Gina Long MBE is founder of The GeeWizz Charitable Foundation, a philanthropist, entrepreneur, freelance journalist, and global charity campaigner.”

• Swindon – Liden Library closure possible after false announcement it has shut – Swindon Advertiser. “A post was made on the Liden Library and Community Hub Facebook page by parish councillor Mike Davies on January 18, informing residents that the facility had abruptly closed. But this post was later removed from the page and the chair of Swindon Community Library Trust, David Bell, has subsequently labelled it as “misinformation” stating that he was in the library that morning.” However, funding not secured for future.
• West Lothian – West Lothian libraries, swimming pools and community centres facing closure – Edinburgh Live. “It listed four standalone libraries which could be closed if councillors make the decision in late February. Standout among these buildings is the elegant Edwardian West Calder facility. Others suggested include Craig Inn, Almondbank and Pumpherston. Footfall in all of these libraries is down. Council officers stressed at the PDSP that any closures would be at least two years away and dependent on decisions made by councillors. Julie Whitelaw, Interim Head of Housing, Customer and Building Services told the meeting of the council’s Corporate Policy and Resources Policy Development and Scrutiny Panel: “There will be no reduction in book stock and therefore the focus on stock would be greater in the fewer locations. The footfall across these libraries has significantly reduced since Covid, but was also reducing before Covid.””
• West Sussex – New free business support available in Crawley Library – West Sussex Council. “new Business and Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC) Local.”
• Wirral – ‘Hope’ after bid made to reopen ‘much loved’ community centre and library – Liverpool Echo. “The civic centre, and the library based there, were closed as a result of cuts passed in 2022 by Wirral Council to set a legally balanced budget. Since it’s closure, both Labour and Green councillors in Bromborough had been campaigning for the library to be allowed to begin the process to move into community asset transfer.”
  • Campaigners ‘delighted’ libraries could reopen as council prepares for final talks – Liverpool Echo. “Wallasey Village Library and Irby Library could move into the hands of Friends groups while Higher Bebington library would be taken over by the Co-op Academy Bebington. Woodchurch Library would be used by a nearby school as a warm hub and for children with special education needs.”
  • Final talks over future of four Wirral libraries – Wirral Globe.
• Wokingham – Wokingham Library among ‘warm spaces’ on offer for workers – Bracknell News.
• Worcestershire – County Libraries are now warm spaces – Droitwich Standard.

Editorial

So this is the time of year when I traditionally look back on the last twelves months and see if I can spot any themes. Ones that stand out to me this year are:

• Public libraries have bounced back quite a lot this year from Covid, with normal service being resumed in almost all and, crucially, many people coming back to use them. Statistics are far between and contested but it looks like fewer numbers than in 2019 but perhaps in line with other physical retail and the continued decline in usage we’ve seen for over a decade. But thankfully, people are using libraries once more. Phew.
• Warm Libraries. Public libraries and councils moved fast after Martin Lewis tweeted about the need for “warm banks” as well as “food banks” this winter. Scores of library services registered as welcoming spaces for those who needed heating, with many offering hot drinks and coffee on top of the more traditional library and council services. This will hopefully strengthen the sector in the eyes of budget-holders next year. Libraries, which are neutral, free and more importantly in thousands of local communities, are the ideal thing for stuff like this. So far as I can tell, actual take-up of libraries as refuges was limited but it shows the speed the services can pivot and their utility.
• Intolerance comes to the UK. Fresh off the well-funded push towards censorship in the USA against anything that doesn’t tie in with conservative beliefs – mainly LGBT and especially anything Trans – we saw a series of vocal and sometimes violent protests against Drag Queen Story Time and, less in the news, more attempts by the public to ban certain titles. These protest letters were often copy and pasted from US or US-influenced webpages. While instances of successful actual censorship were small but not non-existent in the UK, the many protests at the story-times may well have an impact in 2023. We’ll see.
• Budget cuts were strongly threatened last year but in the end, with some notable local exceptions, did not make a huge impact on services. There are similar worries, possibly with more reason, in 2023.
• Libraries of Things made an increasing impact, in a couple of incarnations. Tool (and other things0 libraries started in a few branches and, perhaps more interestingly, other things such as coats were starting to be donated and given out as well. The trend towards giving other items, such as feminine hygiene products, increased as did the providing of some novel services, such as sunshine-lights.
• After what feels like an age, at least the name of the Single Digital Presence – “LibraryOn” – was announced. The job in producing it is being done very thoroughly (just the naming took a significant time) so one hopes it’s going to be worth it when it comes.
• The continued government distractions meant another one (or was it two or three? Don’t know) ministers in charge of libraries coming and going. They don’t do much anyway – saying nice things but giving very little else. More funding for the sector is evident from Arts Council England, though. The recruitment of an ex Mail journalist as a chair of a new libraries working group made shivers tun down my spine but it’s too early to tell if she’ll go full bold-exclamation-mark when it comes to more serious work. Certainly, though, don’t expect much government funding or hands-on intervention. But do expect increasingly encouragement of volunteers, charities, and anything else that may replace actual proper funding of the sector.

Anyway, wishing you all the best in 2023! Public libraries are stronger now than I had any right to expect when I started these editorials way back in 2010 and this is down to the wonderfulness of them as a concept (and that’s pretty darn brilliant) but also the people who work and fight for them. Thank you. Now on to the next twelve months.

National news

• Government to spend £4.5m towards ‘an anti-racist Wales’ – Western Telegraph. “Our national and local museums, galleries, libraries, theatres, and sporting venues need to be inclusive of black, asian and minority ethnic people and places.”
• Libraries keeping residents warm this winter – Rhyl Journal. “The scheme, Croeso Cynnes, offers people a place to read, chat, or even play games across libraries in all six counties.” Hot drinks and biscuits.
• New Year Honours list 2023 in full: Everyone who got an MBE, OBE, CBE, knighthood and damehood this year – I. Knighthood – Roland Keating, Chief Executive of The British Library. MBEs or BEMs for – Stephen John Bleakley. (Northern Ireland). Susan Crowley ( Somerset); Zoey Dixon (Lambeth), Alan Garnsworthy (Hackney); Sylvia Knights. Trustee, (Suffolk); Hilary Marshall (Ascel).
• Nicola Sturgeon’s government warned libraries facing ‘slow death’ as borrower numbers plummet – Scottish Daily Express. “According to research, in 2011-12 the number of books borrowed was 21,380,156 – but by 2018-19, that fell to just 14,690,455.”
• The Reading Agency: 20 Years of Transforming Lives Through Reading – Reading Agency. History of the organisation.
• UK Libraries turn into ‘warm banks’ to provide heating and hot beverages for free amid energy crisis – Upworthy. “”People started signing up fairly slowly and then word spread. We’re over 1,000 listings on the map now and they’re still coming in thick and fast.”

International news

• Australia – Community Storytelling in Libraries – Jane Cowell. “To help us tell the stories of the good that libraries do in the community we need to build our community storytelling skills. For us at Yarra Plenty Regional Library local Melbourne storyteller Lara McKinley helped some of us identify, practice and use new storytelling skills. The top 5 basic skills we learned …”
• Canada – One of the World’s Most Beautiful Libraries Was Born Out of Tragedy – Yahoo News. Architect was a Japanese-Canadian citizen in WW2 internment camp. ““Canada’s aspiration to achieve unity and a unique identity through its policy of multi-culturalism,” wrote Moriyama, “lies not only in mere tolerance and acceptance of diverse ethnic and community groups.”
• Russia – Moscow libraries pull books by Stephen Fry and Haruki Murakamai after “LGBT propaganda law” – I. Subscription required.
• Singapore – Makerspaces: What They Are and How You Can Benefit from Them – Medium.
• Ukraine – Exchange with Ukrainian Libraries – Libraries Connected. Webinar, 26 January, 1pm. “The event will introduce the Universal Library Offers, and we will then hear from Ukrainian libraries about their extraordinary work to support their communities in the war.”
• USA – Huntsville City Council privatizes public library operations despite pushback from residents – Houston Public Media. “The decision to enter into a 10-year contract with Library Systems & Services came a few months after Huntsville city officials ordered library staff to remove a “Read With Pride” display highlighting books with LGBTQ+ themes.”
  • 5 Ways Libraries Used to Be Hardcore – Cracked. “Libraries Sterilized or Even Incinerated Books, and Laws Kept the Sick From Borrowing”, “During the Depression, Librarians Went Out on Horseback to Bring Books to Mountain Folk”, “Librarians Put on Uniforms and Went to War (as Librarians)”, “Police Arrested People in the Middle of the Night Out of Their Beds for Overdue Books”, “J.P. Morgan Locked the Nation’s Financiers in a Library Till They Agreed to Bail the Country Out”
  • American Library Association President: Librarians Are Facing Harassment – Teen Vogue. “We are seeing unprecedented levels of book banning right now. There is this small minority of people who want to ban books and they’re not suggesting individual titles, they’re coming in with huge lists of books that for the most part they haven’t even read. They are trying to silence diverse voices and ideas and using public libraries as a pawn in this fight.”
  • ‘Guardians of Divinity’ demonstrators face off with over 100 Drag Story Hour supporters outside NYC library during reading event for children: Group said ‘leave kids alone’ before ‘being pelted with projectiles’ by counter-protesters – Mail.
  • How Valuable Are Libraries? Here are the Numbers – Medium.
  • St. Paul libraries face moment of reckoning – Star Tribune. “libraries are working to balance their traditional role of connecting people with the information they need to live better lives while improving security at a time when people’s struggles with mental illness and drug use are showing up in library spaces.”

Local news by authority

• Bexley – Peter Craske: Partnership working is delivering two new libraries in Bexley, and delivering real value for money for residents – Conservative Home. “n Sidcup, we have just opened the Storyteller – a new home for the town’s library, complete with a cafe – and in the New Year, it will be the home of a new three-screen cinema run by the Really Local Group.” … ” in 2023 we will open a new library in Thamesmead, in partnership with Peabody. This new library, with amazing views across Southmere Lake to the Thames, will be part of a wider community building, The Nest.”
• Birmingham – Birmingham’s libraries declare amnesty on late fees – Birmingham Council. “an amnesty on fees for books returned late at all city libraries will run from December 2022 until 31 March 2023.  Fees will not be accrued during this period.”
• Bolton – Masterplan:  Bolton Library multi-million pound development – Bolton News. “£4.43m renovation, backed by the government’s Towns Fund and the council. Now the site has been cleared, work can begin to create a new café, an expanded children’s area, improved social spaces, updated digital facilities and the addition of a mezzanine floor.”
  • Bolton Council leader delivers New Year’s Day message – Bolton News. “The extension and refurbishment of the Market Hall is now underway, as is, a £3 million investment in our Library. It will look fabulous when it reopens. This investment in our library service is the biggest in a generation and underlines our commitment to put libraries at the heart of our community.”
• Bradford – Children’s designs for new Bradford library card – Yahoo News. “To celebrate its anniversary, Bradford Libraries invited children in the district to enter a competition to design a new children’s library card. Entrants were encouraged to create designs that reflected what libraries meant to them – books, reading, going to the library as a child, meeting authors, story-time; using PCs; class visits; summer reading challenges and special moments. The competition, open to Bradford children from four to 11-years-old, drew a total of 454 entries from acro”ss the district, representing 47 primary schools.”
• Brighton – These are the most borrowed books from Brighton libraries (how many have you read?) – Yahoo News. Richard Osman, JK Rowling and Jeff Kinney.
• Buckinghamshire – Bucks libraries to offer fines amnesty to help with cost of living – Bucks Free Press. “Buckinghamshire Council announced an amnesty for library fines for a limited time only to help residents feeling the brunt of the cost of living crisis. During January and February in the new year, the Council- run libraries across the county are taking part in the initiative”
• Cambridgeshire – £400 of funding for Warm Spaces at Huntingdonshire libraries – Hunts Post. “The money will be distributed by Cambridgeshire Libraries to all Huntingdonshire Libraries so they can buy refreshments and supplies for an activity for people to do at the Warm Spaces. “

• Cheshire West and Chester – Council changes to improve access to customer services – Standard. “ask the contact centre to book an appointment to see a customer service adviser, or drop-in to one of the Resident Assistance Points located in some council buildings and libraries across the borough.”
• Cumbria – Cumbria great big read promotes reading for pleasure at schools – Mail. “Cumbria Great Big Read, founded by Marie Wynn, started three years ago to promote reading and listening for pleasure at home and school. For World Book Day, on Thursday, March 2, Cumbria Great Big Read will host another ‘great’ big read for primary school children and a ‘great’ big listen for nursery children between February 1 and April 30 next year.” Schools tie-in with Usborne.
• Denbighshire – Denbighshire libraries keep young and old residents warm this winter – Journal. Hot drinks.
• Derbyshire – Winner announced in libraries’ short story competition – Quest Media. “Derbyshire was the theme and libraries were looking for stories of no more than 55 words, in whatever style the writer wished. More than 100 entries were received.”
• Devon – Okehampton library members now able to access more audio and ebooks – Okehampton Today. Borrowbox and Libby.
  • Warm scheme highlights the importance of Kingsbridge library – Kingsbridge Today. “Kingsbridge library have recently been registered as a Warm Hub as part of a national Warm Hub scheme. The designation of this draws attention to just how central the library is to Kingsbridge and the surrounding areas, lying at the heart of the community and acting as a space where local people can feel safe and welcomed.”
• East Dunbartonshire – Tackle the winter blues in your local library – East Dunbartonshire Council. “ight therapy lamps have been found to help lift mood, boost concentration, restore natural energy and treat the symptoms of SAD. East Dunbartonshire Libraries are the first Scottish library service to offer this as part of library membership.”
• East Lothian – Help wanted to find Christmas crab on the loose in Haddington Library – East Lothian Courier. Children’s competition. “”Please keep an eye out! His wife & 80,000 children are worried sick”
• East Sussex – Newhaven library to undergo major refurbishment – Sussex Express. “The library will receive improvements to the main layout with new seating and upgraded children’s areas and study spaces. Refurbishments will include larger areas for computer use, with private pods giving the public confidential space to hold virtual job interviews or get one to one support.”
• Essex – Win an animal experience with the Winter Reading Challenge – Your Harlow. “Everyone that completes this year’s Winter Reading Challenge will be automatically entered into a prize draw. The winner will receive a day at the zoo and the chance to get closer to some of the animals, learning more about them with the help of the Animal Care Team.”
• Hackney – Hackney’s libraries put out call for unwanted toys ahead of January gift appeal – Hackney Citizen. “The toys can be dropped off at public libraries across the borough as part of Hackney’s gift appeal from 3-24 January. Hackney Council will pass the donations on to charities and education centres so the toys can be played with again. It is hoped the appeal will also keep toys out of landfill and encourage people to think about the circular economy. Residents can also donate or take coats from racks at libraries as part of a clothes swap campaign designed to help people weather the cost-of-living crisis.”
• Hampshire – Hampshire County Council’s library service receives recognition – Gazette. “received recognition for its work to provide a safe and supportive space to people from all communities. Hampshire is the first county-wide library network to gain the Library Service of Sanctuary Award, which has been granted by City of Sanctuary UK.”
• Kent – Folkestone library in Grace Hill closed as a safety precaution after flooding causes water damage – Kent Online. “the building will have to remain shut until the end of January when the situation will be reviewed.”
• Liverpool – Liverpool services that could be slashed as council looks to save £73m – Liverpool Echo. “Since the proposals were first outlined – which included a potential hike in council tax, increasing fees and charges as well as a review of its libraries and fitness centres – a number of public consultations have been launched as the Cunard authority looks for some input on areas it can cut from.”
• Manchester – Manchester’s Central Library warm hub and how it’s helping people in cost of living crisis – Manchester World.
• Midlothian – Midlothian library service selected for pioneering ‘Lend and Mend Hub’ project – Midlothian Council. “Gorebridge Library in Midlothian has been selected as one of the first in Scotland to host a ‘Lend and Mend Hub’, as part of a trailblazing pilot project, managed by the Scottish Library and Information Council”
• North Yorkshire – Successful Reboot scheme needs more devices to meet demand – Craven Herald. “opportunity for individuals or organisations to donate laptops, tablets and other devices they no longer need.”
• Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire libraries announces ebook short story competition 2023 – Oxfordshire Council. “The annual competition, hosted by Oxfordshire County Council’s libraries service is a chance to discover new writers, original stories and unique voices from around Oxfordshire. The winners will have their story published as an ebook and eaudiobook on Oxfordshire libraries’ OverDrive platform, where they can be borrowed, read and listened to from anywhere.”
• Redbridge – Local people support plans for new library opening hours – Redbridge Council. “
• Sandwell – Library a warm space of welcome throughout festive season – Express and Star. Hot drink.
• Sefton – Iconic building to be ‘returned to its former glory’ – Liverpool Echo. “The Carnegie Library in Crosby was shut down by Sefton Council in December 2013 as part of a “libraries review” and a bid to save money. Last year it was announced that Cunard Construction (CC) Ltd wanted to return the building to full use for community groups, families, and local businesses.”
• Slough – Slough’s Moxy hotel, leisure centres, & libraries at risk of sell off – Slough Observer. “In order to reduce its £760m borrowing debt and bridge its financial blackholes, Slough Borough Council (SBC) is selling up to £600m of its property and land as well as make about £20m savings a year for the next few years.” … “In 2025/26, the libraries, such as the Curve, Langley, and Cippenham could go”
• Somerset – Libraries chief is recognised in New Year’s Honours awards – Wellington Today. Sue Crowley, chief of Somerset libraries – ““I feel I am accepting this award on behalf of all those who have worked and who will continue to work in our libraries ensuring they remain relevant, welcoming and fun places.”
• Southampton – Return of much-loved library on the cards as council ‘in discussions’ – Yahoo News. “Southampton City Council revealed that it’s in discussions with two community partners to support the running of a new offer at Cobbett Road Hub and Library. This comes after frustrated parents and residents called for the valued community space to be reopened.” Closed in 2021.
• South Gloucestershire – Blankets, socks and light-bulbs handed out to residents to help during cost of living crisis – Bristol Post. “Included in the packs are clothing such as hats, socks and gloves, as well as other items for the home including a blanket, an LED light bulb and tea bags. Packs have been available for men, women and children at the council’s One Stop Shops and libraries from December 22.”
• Staffordshire – Wombourne library to close for energy efficiency work – BBC. “A new lighting system will be installed at Wombourne library, which the county council said would “update the building and cut bills in the long run”.”
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries to host Chinese and British exhibition and events – Suffolk Libraries. “will highlight the rich history of Chinese British communities and the lasting impact of Chinese communities in the UK. The event is part of the Living Knowledge Network”
  • British Empire Medal for former mayor who helped save Bungay library – EDP. “Sylvia Knights, has been recognised in the New Year’s Honour’s list. Mrs Knights, from Bungay, is to receive the Order of the British Empire (BEM) honour for services to public libraries.”
  • Wellbeing is just one of Suffolk Libraries’ range of services – Great British Life. ““Sewing therapy, fashion shows, music gigs, baby weighing facilities. We have tablets and eReader devices available to borrow, and an eLibrary of eBooks, audio books, downloadable newspapers and magazines, free music and films. We have a Post Office in the library in Stradbroke, and Gainsborough Library sells low-cost health fruit and veg bags to local people every week.””
• West Sussex – Crawley library to remain open as essential maintenance to building is delayed – Sussex World. Broadfield “This is to allow the lighting, fire alarm, and CCTV to be replaced.”
• Wiltshire – Wiltshire Council reminds residents about Library warm spaces – Salisbury Journal. ” the library staff have assisted residents with energy advice and is a collection point for Warm Packs which includes a blanket and hot water bottle.”
• Worcestershire – Most Borrowed Books 2022 – Worcestershire Council. Crime remains top for adults, Walliams and Pichon for children, neurodiversity and mental health for teens.
• Wrexham – Have you ever worked in Wrexham’s libraries? – Wrexham Council. “all former staff (and a plus one) are invited to an informal reunion in Wrexham Library” for 50th anniversary of library.
• York – York community hubs open as ‘warm banks’ amid cost of living crisis – Press. “York Explore libraries have seen similar popularity, offering warm, safe spaces, an affordable cafe, and cost of living advice.”

Editorial

Looking out of my window, there’s snow on the ground, and I notice the weather forecast says there’s going to be minus figure temperatures for the next week, so it’s no surprise that Warm Libraries continues to be a major theme in the news. It’s interesting to see how different library services are approaching things, with my salutes this week going to Libraries Unlimited who got funding for increased opening hours, Norfolk for offering bags of clothes and other materials, and South Lanarkshire going full-surreal with its welly swaps. Elsewhere, there are two moves of libraries, including a big one at Huddersfield. And there’s background noise about forthcoming cuts to council budgets and library services. Well, it’s nearly Christmas I guess.

Changes by local authority

• Aberdeenshire – Aberchirder Library to move into primary school. £210k cut.
• Kirklees – Huddersfield Library relocating to Queensgate Market building.

National news

• Author Pamela Butchart on the cat who brought magic into her world – Herald. “My love of reading started in the Wellgate Library in Dundee. The library was a free and child-friendly space, so my mum took me there one day when we were out in town. And that’s where I found Mog. I loved the library as a wee one (and still do). I couldn’t believe I was allowed to take out not just one book but 10 books. I was so excited to go back every weekend and I didn’t have to worry about asking my mum for money because it was free. That’s why libraries are so essential – for many children it’s the only way they can access as many books as they would like. That’s the magic of libraries.”
• British libraries under threat; the fight for funding – Impact. “There are things we can do to support our local libraries to try and prevent these closures. Penguin Books highlight examples on their website. We can become members, borrow books (this can even be online), donate, write to our local MP and use the space provided for work or reading. “
• Designing libraries – DCMS. “To my mind, promoting strong, innovative and imaginative library design – and redesign – is key to it all. ACE has provided funding towards the first phase of DL’s redevelopment – a new content management system which will underpin further improvements. I am leading a small team taking the project forward.”

• The Guardian view on local libraries: a resource that must be protected – Guardian. “The cost of living crisis has cast new light on their role as places not only to read and learn, but to keep warm. They cannot be allowed to dwindle” … ” Nearly one in four [chief librarians] think they will have to close local branches. In a report titled Reimagining Where We Live, the parliamentary committee of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport last month argued for increased central government support. It is vital that the government steps up. The cost of not doing so is unimaginable.”
• Innovation Network Gathering 2023 – Libraries Connected. Birmingham, Thursday 2 March, £60. “This event brings public library staff together from across the UK to showcase their innovative work, create new connections and think collectively about how to improve their services to local communities. There will be a couple of external speakers and lots of presentations and sharing sessions from library services, making it a really interactive and informative day with lots of networking.”
• Warm Banks in London: where can you find them? – BBC. Libraries have very frequent mentions. Same thing for Berkshire at Cost of living: Find warm spaces across Berkshire – BBC and Hampshire.
• Why access to libraries and books are a human right for children – Herald. “Even in a forecast second tunnel of austerity, closing libraries or cutting school librarians shouldn’t be on the table. They are a symbolic place. They signal that we, as a society, believe in meritocracy. They show that we believe everyone can and does have the ability to read themselves to a better life. As Dr Seuss said: “The more you read, the more you will know. The more you learn, the more places you go.”
• With local libraries, it’s quality that matters, not quantity – Guardian / Letters. “Your editorial (4 December) rightly identifies local libraries as an important community resource, but places too much emphasis on the number of branches and not on two central issues – accessibility and opening hours. There is little point in having a library that has no toilets, no facilities and which is inconvenient to reach. Nor is there much point in a building where the budget has to be cut back to such an extent that it is never open.” Brent prioritised library size over number.

International news

• Ukraine – ‘Our mission is crucial’: meet the warrior librarians of Ukraine – Guardian. “When Russia invaded Ukraine, a key part of its strategy was to destroy historic libraries in order to eradicate the Ukrainians’ sense of identity. But Putin hadn’t counted on the unbreakable spirit of the country’s librarians” … “During this war, Ukrainian libraries now serve new roles. They operate as centres for displaced persons. They offer psychological counselling for traumatised populations. They provide space for art therapy. “Of course, we pay special attention to children,” Bruy says. The librarians even sew camouflage nets when they have the time.”
• USA – Anti-LGBTQ+ Actor-Writer Kirk Cameron Shocked at Libraries’ Rejection – Advocate. “Fifty libraries from across the U.S. have either rejected or not responded to the former Growing Pains star’s offers to appear, his publisher, Brave Books, told Fox News. “Many of the same libraries that won’t give Cameron a slot, however, are actively offering ‘drag queen’ story hours or similar programs for kids and young people,” Fox News reports on its website.” … “, Cameron told Fox News, “This is proof that more than ever, we are getting destroyed in the battle for the hearts and minds of our children.” “Publicly funded libraries are green-lighting ‘gender marker and name change clinics’ while denying a story time that would involve the reading of a book that teaches biblical wisdom,” he went on. “How much more clear can it get?””

Local news by authority

• Aberdeenshire – Final check out for Aberchirder library at its current location – Grampian Online. “The current library premises are open for just five hours per week to serve the local area and a planned move to refurbished space within the Primary School building will enable it to extend its offering. In the report to councillors is is explained that Live Life Aberdeenshire is expected to make savings of £210,000 in the libraries and museums service through expansion of click and collect (within libraries) at the expense of the Mobile Service, reduction in library buildings, replace existing systems with opensource products to provide access to a wide range of digital services and materials.”
• Devon – Librarian Linda’s spreading the word – Dawlish Today. “The Newton Abbot mum loves books so much she’s set up a free reading library outside her home in Primrose Drive.”
  • Funding for extra opening hours for libraries – Libraries Unlimited. “The National Grid has awarded a £9,900 grant to Libraries Unlimited, the charity that runs the 54 libraries around Devon and Torbay. The money will mean extra staff time, heating and lighting in five libraries can be funded for between three and four more hours a week until the end of March. The funding is from the Community Matters Fund, provided by The National Grid and delivered in partnership with Localgiving.”
• Dudley – Dudley library manager wins RNA librarian of the year award – Dudley News. “Most recently she worked with authors to provide talks for library users across the borough, which were really well attended and received.”. Romantic Novelist’s Association Industry Awards 2022: Winners Announced – Romantic Novelists Association. Librarian of the Year: Sharon Whitehouse, ​​Dudley Libraries, GLL.

• East Renfrewshire – Libraries and leisure centres transformed into warm spaces this winter – Yahoo News. “East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure (ERCL) is encouraging locals to visit one of the area’s ten libraries to enjoy festive singalongs, children and family activities, knitting, folk music and more. People can also use the free WiFi, and computers and, of course, ‘find a good book and curl up in a cosy nook’.”
• East Riding – East Riding Libraries launch a competition for festive Christmas jumpers – HU17. Design jumper on template for chance to win new Christmas book.
• Enfield – ‘Warm spaces’ available as temperatures plummet – Enfield Dispatch. “all 17 libraries in the borough becoming refuges for vulnerable people.”
• Hertfordshire – Stay Safe, Stay Warm – Hertfordshire residents urged to check electrical items – Hertfordshire Council. “With many households considering alternative heating methods this winter, residents are being encouraged to have their electrical goods tested for free at events organised by Hertfordshire County Council’s Trading Standards Service, in partnership with Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and Hertfordshire Libraries.”
• Kirklees – Huddersfield Library to relocate in January as part of Cultural Heart re-development – Huddersfield Hub. “Queensgate Market has already closed and now the library will move from the Huddersfield Library and Art Gallery building on Princess Alexandra Walk that’s been its home since the Second World War. The first phase of the flagship Cultural Heart programme includes a new and modern library that will be housed inside an extended Queensgate Market building, alongside a food hall. Kirklees Libraries will start the move to Kirklees Council’s Customer Service Centre, known as Civic Centre III, in Market Street. The existing library will remain open to the public until noon on New Year’s Eve when it will close its doors for the last time” see also Huddersfield Cultural Heart: Grade II-listed library and market to become food hall, independent business hub and museum – Yorkshire Post and New beginnings as Huddersfield Library relocates from building after 80 years – Kirklees Together.
• Merton – Council working with London Sport to create ambitious sporting strategy for Merton – Merton Council. “With over 450 events already taking each month (including yoga and exercise classes), Health and Wellbeing zones being launched, and footballs available on loan, in partnership with the Premier League and Sport England, Merton’s libraries are already great places to get active.”
• Midlothian – Midlothian Warm and Well hubs open in libraries – Midlothian View. “Free hot drinks and soup will be available at two Midlothian libraries from today as they opened their doors as Warm and Well hubs to support locals during winter.”
• Norfolk – North Norfolk leisure centres and libraries become warm banks – North Norfolk news. “Norfolk’s libraries have become ‘warm banks’ where people can spend time without any other obligation. And until the end of March they will be offering free bags of essential items and hot drinks. Warm and Well bags contain a scarf, hat, gloves, blanket, socks and a hot water bottle. Adult and child bags are available. Vests are available on request in a range of adult and child sizes. Tea, coffee, instant soup and hot chocolate will be available during staffed hours”
• Oxfordshire – Spaces across Oxfordshire to gather and keep warm – Oxford Mail. Libraries a large part of list.
• Pembrokeshire – Game on at local libraries as board game groups seek players – Tenby Observer. “Board Gamers don’t need to attend every session but the hope is that the groups will generate enough participants so that even when every member isn’t present, there are enough people there to play games.”
  • Narberth Library closed until further notice – Wales 247. Closed for maintenance. “Narberth Library is a community managed partnership between Pembrokeshire County Council’s library service, the Friends of Narberth Library and Narberth Town Council. The library will be moving to the Old School site in Narberth late 2023/early 2024.”
• Shropshire – ‘Standing still is not an option’: Council to discuss future-proofing library strategy – Shropshire Star. “The strategy identifies potential savings of over £200k, with an aim of protecting access to libraries and opening hours through “a more joined-up approach to marketing, income generation, venue and contract management and ICT.” There is no suggestion in the report of staff cuts, or library closures.”
• Solihull – “We’re Here 2 Help this Winter – come and talk to us” – Solihull Council. Advice sessions in libraries.
• South Lanarkshire – Libraries across South Lanarkshire launch ‘welly swap’ to help locals with cost of living – Daily Record. “The Welly Swap aims to help locals save their cash during the current cost of living crisis and offers a sustainable alternative to throwing away outgrown wellies.”
• Suffolk – £1.97 million awarded to support women in the workplace – Gov.uk. “Suffolk Libraries will be using the funding to deliver a new service to support women in the county to raise awareness of the menopause and signpost advice.”
• Swindon – Swindon facing ‘unprecedented’ spending cuts – BBC. “Its leaders have written to the prime minister asking for urgent help, warning of an “uncertain future” for services including libraries and bin collections.” … “Over the years Swindon has already shed much of its funding and responsibility for leisure, libraries and parks, so its options for further savings are increasingly hard to identify.”
• Warwickshire – “You Can Online is already changing my life for the better” – local resident shares how Warwickshire Libraries is helping to improve her digital skills – Warwickshire Council. “Since launch, over two thirds of the Lenovo M10 tablets have already been taken out on loan by library members, and there are still a few available …”
• Worcestershire – The Hive library festive events for families – Worcester News. Crafts and other activities. “Our libraries are thriving community spaces where people go to meet with one another and participate in a wide range of services.”