Some more information about the awful dismissal of Carla Hayden as USA Librarian of Congress. From what can be gathered the abbreviated timeline went something like this:
Far right person calls the Librarian of Congress “woke” on social media
Trump reads this while scanning his phone and immediately tells someone to sack Carla Hayden
Carla is dismissed within an hour. She has no other communication or meeting apart from the two sentences in the sacking email.
Defending the dismissal, Trump’s cronies say that she put dodgy stuff in the children’s library, having not bothered to check and find out that the Library of Congress does not actually have a children’s library.
Wow, that’s serious dictator stuff and suggests that no librarian is safe in their position in the USA. But I guess that shouldn’t really come as news. The main hope now is such populists don’t take over control here.
UK news is downright reassuring in comparison. Aberdeen has completed it’s announce big-cuts /public-backlash/announce-it’s-not-closing-any libraries-while-still-reducing-their-budget cycle. And, also in Scotland, Edinburgh is cutting £345k. Scotland used to be seen as less severe in their cuts than England/Wales but I guess now not so much. South of the border though, Peterborough is waving the austerity banner by not allowing it’s libraries to buy books – you know, those things that are quite important in libraries – for over six months.
All this happened during Libraries Change Lives Week. It’s not an event with, let’s face it, big public exposure. Indeed, looking at the news, only a few libraries did a media release and they didn’t do much for it. But the public is not really the main point of the Week, it’s trying to persuade those people that really matter – the politicians. And there we have some good news, with the libraries minister actually visiting a library. I understand too that Fiona Twycross has actually used libraries in the past so she’s already beating the previous politician who was in that post. And there’s calls for the Government to actually spend some money on libraries too. Which is nice.
How Britain’s 1980s Anti-Gay Laws Impacted a Generation of Young LGBTQ Readers – Literary Hub. “Reading about book bans in the US, I couldn’t help but see the parallels. The battle between those arguing for diversity and LGBTQ representation in children’s books, against those who want to remove them from school bookshelves and public libraries, was all too familiar to anyone who had grown up in the UK. Back in 1983, British newspaper, The Daily Mail, brought a scandal to their readers’ attention. A children’s book, Jenny Lives with Eric and Martin had been found on the shelves of a public library in London.”
If books could kill: The poison legacy lurking in libraries – BBC. “Victorian bookbinders used arsenic as well as mercury and chrome to create striking covers. And unlike domestic items, books have survived in archives around the world, creating a 21st Century problem from 19th Century fashion.”
‘I live in double-decker bus that’s also a library’ – BBC. “”I want to bring literacy to areas that no longer have libraries and also go to festivals and provide a bit of a community space for some people to connect. “That’s the point of the library and the books, to give people a reason to come along and then they can connect with people in the local community and with me and all the work that I do.””
Join the celebrations for Libraries Week – DCMS Libraries. “During the week, policy and decisions makers are visiting library services across the England to meet with library staff and users, tour facilities, and hear first-hand how the library is supporting people “
Letting libraries crumble is attacking the vulnerable – Herald. “It’s not just short-sighted to let them crumble; it’s attacking the vulnerable. If we’re serious about building a fairer, more equal Scotland, we need to stop treating libraries like optional extras. They are – and always have been – lifelines.”
Reeves urged to fund libraries, parks and social centres in left-behind areas – Guardian. “Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods calls for spending on ‘mission critical’ local regeneration schemes” … ““Red wall” Labour MPs are urging Rachel Reeves to fund grassroots “social infrastructure” such as parks, community centres and libraries, as well as high-profile transport projects, to ensure voters in left-behind areas can benefit from growth. The Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods (Icon), chaired by the Labour peer Hilary Armstrong and supported by a string of backbenchers, has identified 613 “mission critical” local areas.” … “The North Durham MP, Luke Akehurst, said: “Investing in social infrastructure such as community centres, parks and libraries, would start to plug my constituency back into the national economy, which it has been excluded from for far too long.””
The role of libraries in building a sustainable economy – DCMS Libraries. “Libraries Week is celebrating the vital role libraries play in building a sustainable economy. The Business & IP Centre’s National Network, based in libraries across the UK, drives and sustains economic growth by offering free impartial business support to local entrepreneurs.”
Scottish Book Trust: The value and impact of Scotland’s public libraries– North Edinburgh News. “Scottish Book Trust has undertaken an independent research project, led by our Research and Evaluation Manager Éadaoín Lynch, to report on the value and impact of our public and school libraries – and showcase how they are intrinsic to removing inequity across many intersections of Scottish life.”
Scottish libraries becoming endangered warns charity – TFN. “Libraries in Scotland have become endangered because of repeated cuts by councils and government, a charity has warned. Almost 100 libraries have closed since 2008, research by the Scottish Book Trust shows.”
Why London councils want more Spending Review cash – BBC. “At Chipping Barnet library, elderly and vulnerable adults meet for a weekly singalong, external run by the Alzheimer’s Society, which receives funding from Barnet Council.” but cuts a problem: “One of the areas impacted is its library service, which Barnet has promised to keep open. However it is reducing opening hours at four libraries, including Chipping Barnet, to save money.”
International news
Australia – Strengthening Library Teams: Safety & Resilience – Jane Cowell. “Building psychosocial safety and resilience isn’t a one-off project — it’s an ongoing commitment. By embedding regular check-ins, coaching conversations, and collaborative problem-solving into your library’s culture, you’ll not only address emerging risks but also create a thriving, supportive environment where your team can do their best work.”
USA – “What do Americans really read, and where do they find their books? EveryLibrary’s John Chrastka sits down with Tim Coates, principal investigator of the Freckle Project, to discuss groundbreaking data from the 9th Freckle Survey. Learn why digital borrowing is soaring, why libraries’ collections need a nonfiction and backlist boost, and why focusing on core reading services is key to reversing declining library visits.”
Lawmakers did not seek Hayden’s firing as Librarian of Congress – Politico. President Trump saw a tweet and fired the Librarian apparently without any actual thinking. House Press Secretary says ““There were quite concerning things that she had done at the Library of Congress in the pursuit of DEI and putting inappropriate books in the library for children,” but the Library of Congress does not have a library for children.
Press 1 for Engagement – American Libraries. “Public art that “talks” to passersby. Scavenger hunts that scamper through community landmarks. Through the power of play—and mobile media—programs like these can help public libraries connect with patrons and share local stories.”
Bolton – Two banned from Bolton libraries in incidents needing police – Bolton News. “Ten people were slapped with year-long bans from the library for anti-social behaviour incidents – including two where police were needed.” … “Over the last two years, a total of 27 anti-social behaviour incidents leading to a ban were reported in council-owned libraries. The council said that they only keep a record of anti-social behaviour incidents if it resulted in a banning letter being sent.”
Caerphilly – Letter: Aren’t libraries just full of future hackers? – South Wales Argus. “Delyth Jewell MS put up a spirited defence for retaining all public libraries in Wales as well as in Caerphilly and hopefully she will be listened to. If libraries really want to cut costs they should stick to their original roles of just lending books and providing some reading spaces for those using the reference books that by their very nature have to stay on the premises.”
Children urge council to rethink library cuts – Nation Cymru. “Up to ten libraries could shut down at the end of August, in what Caerphilly County Borough Council calls a “bold new vision” to shrink the service and set up new “hubs”.”
Camden – Refurbished Holborn Library opens as a vibrant neighbourhood space – Camden Council. “Holborn Library now houses multiple partners, including ShiftED, Wimbletech, Voluntary Action Camden, and a dedicated piano academy featuring instruments generously donated by the Lang Lang International Music Foundation. This collaborative approach is a pivotal step in offering a wider range of services and activities to the community, working together with the existing library provisions.”
Devon – Fond farewell to retiring Crediton Librarian Sue – Crediton Courier. “Members of the Sustainable Crediton Food Larder Group which runs the hugely successful Food Larder, which operates from Crediton Library, gathered to thank Sue for all she has done.”
Dorset – Gillingham Library to close for week for building work – Daily Echo. “The closure is to allow for essential building work to be carried out in preparation for the installation of new technology. This will enable library members to use the facilities beyond the current staffed opening hours.”
East Riding Libraries to celebrate pride this June – East Riding Council. “East Riding Libraries have partnered with local author, Chris Turnbull, and artist, Rachel Anderson, to bring fun and inclusive events into local libraries, encouraging artistic expression and pride in our identities.”
Edinburgh – Cost-saving measures to help resolve a shortfall in libraries budget – Edinburgh Reporter. “The changes will see about £345,000 saved per year, helping to make up a £505,000 annual shortfall faced by the city’s library service. Edinburgh’s library service will aim to solve the remaining £160,000 in budget pressure through other interventions. In August 2024, Edinburgh councillors agreed that closures would not be considered to resolve library budget shortages. Across the city, 10 libraries in less socially deprived communities were selected to have two ‘transaction-only’ days per week, where the libraries will not host any events and only carry out day-to-day operations. Officers estimated that this will save about £180,000 per year.”
Star visited Glasgow library ‘because Billy Connolly told him to’– Glasgow Times. History and description of Partick Library. ““I remember being here one night when Bill Nighy popped in,” she says. He was filming an Agatha Christie drama in the city, and was staying up at One Devonshire Gardens. “He was very nice. He said Billy Connolly had recommended he should visit the library, so he did, which I thought was lovely.””
Kirklees – Kirklees Libraries celebrate 10 years of volunteer contributions – Kirklees Council. “Since the volunteer programme began in 2015, hundreds of individuals have stepped up to support their local libraries. Their dedication has made a lasting impact on communities across the whole of Kirklees. To mark the occasion, celebratory events are being held this week at libraries across Kirklees, where volunteers will be treated to cake and awarded certificates, as a show of appreciation for all their efforts.”
Peterborough – Peterborough libraries once again allowed to stock their shelves as book buying ban lifted – Peterborough Telegraph. “Peterborough Limited, which provides services for the council such as street cleaning, parks maintenance, school transport and libraries, implemented the purchasing freeze in October 2024 as the council made efforts to save money in the face of its budget deficit.” … “The Friends of Woodston Library have said that the self-imposed moratorium has led to library shelves desperately needing new, inspiring and engaging books in time for the summer holidays”
Appeal for new books to tackle low literacy levels – BBC. “Friends of Woodston Library in Peterborough has asked residents to donate new books, saying its shelves “desperately” need restocking in time for the summer holidays”
Redbridge – Redbridge Central Library closed after WWII artefact found – Ilford Recorder. ” “An item in the building’s museum archives from the second world war was discovered in Redbridge Central Library today by a member of staff, who acted quickly and contacted the police, following our procedures to keep everyone safe.” [We can assume it wasn’t a teddy bear then – Ed.]
Library temporarily closed due to flooding – EADT. “Southwold Library announced it was shut on Tuesday and says it will provide updates as soon as it can following the flooding at its site in Field Stile Road.”
Warwickshire – Government Minister enjoys personal tour of Rugby’s cultural community – Warwickshire World. ” MP John Slinger welcomed the Minister for Heritage and Libraries, Baroness Twycross, to the town for a visit to the library, Rugby Art Gallery and Museum and St Michael’s and All Angels Church in Brownsover.” … “During the visit, the Minister and Mr Slinger visited the Makerspace and received a briefing from Ayub Khan, head of libraries, and Chris Ashton, area manager at Warwickshire County Council libraries. “
West Sussex – Libraries centenary celebrated at Festival of Chichester – Sussex Express. “This year’s centenary of our West Sussex libraries has been proving the perfect chance to raise their profile. Russell Allen, head of libraries & heritage at West Sussex County Council, is delighted with the response – and will be sharing his thoughts in a special evening for this year’s Festival of Chichester. Russell, who has worked in libraries since he was 16, will be in conversation with Festival of Chichester chairman Phil Hewitt on Thursday, June 26 at 7pm.”
“First and foremost for this anniversary year we really wanted to raise our profile and to help people that maybe overlooked what we do in the community or had forgotten about their library card. We wanted to highlight our libraries and remind people that they are here for everybody, and I think we have really achieved that. We have gained new library members and we know people have dug out deeply buried library cards and started using the libraries again. We wanted to really connect with people and we have done.”
Pioneering Worthing librarian who achieved national acclaim honoured with Blue Plaque – Sussex Express. “Marian Frost is believed to be the first female chief librarian in Britain and her role as a librarian, museum curator and art curator of national acclaim has been celebrated by The Worthing Society with the unveiling ceremony on Friday, June 6, as part of the centenary of West Sussex Library Service.”
Wigan – Work can now begin to repair Wigan library – Wigan Today. “Ashton library needs extensive repairs particularly to the roof after dry rot was discovered. The grade II listed building shut its doors in July last year with most of its services relocating to the The Pavilion building at Jubilee Park.”
Worcestershire – Library volunteering provides a new chapter for retiree Paul – Worcestershire Council. “Now a regular leader of the Language Café Connect Groups, Paul spends his time helping others improve their language skills in a relaxed, welcoming environment. The role has transformed his retirement years.”
So many stories caught my eye this week that the editorial is going to have to just focus on the ones that will benefit from being framed. First off, we see the national continuing falling out of the council love affair with arms-length services, with the formal ending of the Suffolk Libraries non-profit and the withdrawal of plans for outsourcing libraries in Derby. I never thought back in 2012 when I was somewhat cynical (perish the thought) that I’d be genuinely regretful of the ending of Suffolk Libraries but they’ve impressed more than just me over the last decade – see their entry here and compare it to others on the same page for a hint as to why.
Future shock is something that happens to me only occasionally on this blog but Singapore Libraries managed it this week. Unless it’s some sort of practical joke (do they have an equivalent of All Fool’s Day there?), they’re now offering augmented reality spectacles that, get this, read the text as you read it and produce AI images of the words at the same time. One wonders exactly what those AI images will be of course but wow what a great combination of a printed book and at least two pieces of cutting edge technology. Mind you, if it was going to come from anywhere, Singapore would have been my guess. I do wonder though how useful it will be to wear. I mean, talk about distraction. But wow, full points for being on the technological sharp edge. Mind you, I’m also impressed with the lower-tech idea from Devon of asking people to vote on their favourite book of the year, with resultant increases in engagement and issues, so I haven’t gone fully techy yet.
Then we have various ways of describing what a library service provides, some of which strike me as quite lovely. We have Sarah Jessica Parker calling them “sanctuaries of possibility” (darn it, that’s poetic), and from another far side of the world, “community living rooms” that “make us feel part of something bigger”. I love how the same thing produces such affection all around the world. Libraries are, after all, quite the spectacle.
Disconnected Britain: The Hidden Gaps in Local Digital Support – Wired Gov. “Surveying more than 470 libraries, councils, schools, charities and community centres across regions including Dundee, Aberystwyth, Enniskillen, Portsmouth, Kidderminster, Easington, Wrexham and Plymouth, the study found that just 50 could readily provide information on digital inclusion services. That gap is more than statistical. It is structural. In towns like Easington and Plymouth, the absence of publicly visible support – whether for affordable connectivity, essential devices or digital skills – speaks to a deeper neglect. The infrastructure for inclusion simply is not there. Or worse, it is there, but invisible to the people who need it most.”
Successful projects for Microgrants third round revealed – Libraries Connected. Winning projects include free book for children, theatre, accessibility films to show how disabled and neurodiverse people can use libraries, refugee sewing group, storytimes outreach, autism boxes, interactive digital table (two projects, one for children, one for adults), book-like puzzle kits, dementia, nature project including bags, SEND school resources (two projects), outreach resources for adults, domestic abuse, refugee resources, mural, exercise equipment, baby enrolment, prison creative wellbeing, digital skills, adult education.
Australia – Libraries are becoming ‘community living rooms’ keeping regional Australians connected – ABC. “there are more than 1,400 public library branches”. Some are very small, such as a large shed in one community with a small annual subscription. “Books really do bind, in more ways than one. They open doors, start conversations, and make us feel part of something bigger”. This is especially important in smaller settlements, says research, where the only other public space is for alcohol. Sessions include “Be Connected, an intergenerational program that pairs up older people with young readers, loosely based around the TV show Old People’s Home For 4 Year Olds.”
Ireland – Clare Libraries offers Little Library Bags to all children starting school – Clare Council. “The Little Library Bag contains a selection of three picture books about starting school, information leaflets and about reading to children. The books and resources in the book bag, which is available in both English and Irish, support parents and their children in the transition to primary school.”
Augmented Reading in Singapore – Worth a look. AI scans the book while it’s being read and creates AI images from the text
USA – Sarah Jessica Parker details her fears of book-banning, likens libraries to ‘sanctuaries of possibility’ – CNN. “in real life she’s an avid reader who holds books near and dear to her heart.” … ““Book banning doesn’t really accomplish much, except it just hurts people,” Parker told CNN’s Isa Soares. “Specific to libraries, I will simply say that many people in this country, including me, were raised in libraries, and they’re not just buildings with shelves, they are sanctuaries of possibility.” The “Sex and the City” star went on the describe how libraries are vital and free connections for many people to utilities such as Wi-Fi, heat in the winter or air conditioning in the summer.”
Library Collection Decisions Not Protected by First Amendment Says Fifth Circuit Court – Library Journal. “What started in Llano with pearl-clutching over Freddie the Farting Snowman has now resulted in a free-for-all pass for unencumbered suppression and removal of any and all books from public libraries. That is the logical endpoint for censorship, which is why it must be confronted loudly and unequivocally.””
Reading into the Importance of Public Libraries – Progressive. “I like to say that libraries are a promise we make as a community to the community.” … “We had a library here before we had electricity, before we had sewers, before we had garbage collection,” Moran says. “This is something that Madison has stood for for a century and a half—it’s not something that this community is going to stop supporting just because something happened at the federal level.””
Local news by authority
Barnet – Book detectives – Barnet Post. Council launches their own version of the Summer Reading Challenge “For every book they read, children will get a special pawprint stamp in their reading journal and will receive clues from library staff to help reveal the culprit.”
Mobile library service to close – and opening hours at four branches to be cut – Hendon and Finchley Times. “Barnet Council’s mobile library service is set to stop in July – with four libraries’ opening hours also to be cut to save money. The decision to retire Barnet’s mobile library service, reduce the opening hours of four library branches, and to cease the supply of newspapers in libraries was made at a cabinet meeting on May 19. Around £250,000 will be saved, the council estimates, with a general “service restructure” also taking place.”
Blackburn With Darwen – Blackburn with Darwen Libraries to become a Green Library Hub with £86k funding – Shuttle. “Thanks to a grant of over £86,000 spread across three years our libraries will lead the way in engaging local residents in environmental learning and grassroots climate initiatives. This funding will also support the delivery of environmental and engagement training, knowledge sharing, project evaluation, and impact measurement.”
Bradford – ‘Social hub’ fears for Keighley’s historic library building – Keighley News. “”When I went into the library recently after it reopened following refurbishment, I was shocked. “Around 1,000 non-fiction books had disappeared. “Bradford Libraries is trying to turn it into a ‘social hub’, rather than the purpose it’s meant to serve.””
Acclaimed author Martin Impey to visit Shipley Library – Telegraph and Argus. “Martin Impey will come to Shipley Library on Wednesday June 11 as part of a regional tour of libraries in collaboration with the Association of Children’s Senior & Educational Librarian Yorkshire & Humberside, Peters Book Suppliers & Libraries Connected. “
Caerphilly – No-confidence motion planned over ‘short-sighted’ library closures – South Wales Argus. ““Labour pretends to be a listening council but they really aren’t interested in the public’s views and just ignores them,” said Plaid Cymru group leader….” … Labour reply Plaid”is trying to score political points while ignoring a £29 million black hole in funding for this council.””
“If the 1983 purpose built Central Library & Archives had been refurbished without change of purpose, at an estimated cost of £4M, there would have been a total saving of c£15M. This could have been spent on the maintenance of the valuable branch library network and served the whole of Calderdale not just the central area … The new Library has a floor area one-third less than the previous Library and services are decentralised at Heath and King Cross.” – Calderdale – Email received.
Cumberland – Making your Libraries Fit for the Future – Cumberland Council. Survey. “We want to understand what residents think about the library services we offer and how we might need to adapt them to work well in the future. You may or may not use the Library Service now – either way – we want to know what you think.”
Derby – Plans to offload community libraries scrapped – BBC. “The community interest group Sporting Communities had been appointed to run the libraries and had been in discussion with the council about creating a trust to take over the sites, in a money-saving drive for the council. However, the authority said that it had become clear during negotiations that “outsourcing was not the best approach” to protect the libraries in the long term, which have in recent years been at risk of closure. The libraries will now remain in council hands and their futures will be considered at a later date.”
Devon –Devon readers pick Lessons in Chemistry as top book in new library awards– Devon Live. ” voted the favourite book by library users across Devon and Torbay, securing the top spot in the inaugural Libraries Unlimited Book Awards. The awards, launched last November by the charity Libraries Unlimited, featured a shortlist of twenty of the most borrowed books from libraries across the region. Voters had the opportunity to choose their favourite through polling stations in local libraries and an online system.”
“People across Devon and Torbay really got behind this. Not only did people cast their votes, but we also saw an increase in borrowing the top twenty titles, so they could make an informed decision.”
Devon lifelines at risk as budgets face breaking point– Devon Live. “Public libraries across North Devon are under growing threat as councils grapple with mounting budget pressures, a local MP has warned – despite the essential role they play in education, wellbeing and social cohesion. Ian Roome, Liberal Democrat MP for North Devon and a former council leader, said libraries are being forced to do “far more with far less” as local authorities face impossible financial decisions”
Dudley – 90th birthday celebrations at Lye Library – Express and Star. “Lye Library’s ninetieth birthday has been marked with a special birthday party that included stalls, displays, a cake, refreshments and balloons.”
Enfield – Enfield Tool Library to open at Palmers Green Library – Enfield Independent. “Enfield Council is teaming up with an environmental charity to create a ‘tool library’ to help residents save money … nstead of books, the shelves will be stocked with DIY supplies and electronic goods that can be borrowed for a set period of time. Enfield Tool Library will be operated by Forest Recycling Project (FRP), the charity which has run Walthamstow Tool Library in East London since 2020 and has amassed 550 members, 580 tools and issues around 4,000 loans a year.”
Jersey – Charity hopes more people will learn Braille – BBC. “Ms Stafford was among those who attended an event organised by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and local charity EYECAN at Jersey Library on Wednesday celebrating 200 years of Braille.”
Kirklees – Work begins to relocate town’s library – Business Desk. “Plans have advanced to relocate Dewsbury Library Hub to a new home in the town centre. Refurbishment work has now started at the library’s new location, with contractors Walter West Ltd appointed to carry out the renovation over a period of 12 weeks. This development forms part of a wider vision to relocate the library service from its current premises on Railway Street to the Walsh Building, next to Dewsbury Town Hall”
Manchester – Manchester Festival of Libraries returns with a literary extravaganza this June – Manchester Wire. “All 133 of Greater Manchester’s libraries will be taking part in this year’s festival, which runs from Wed 4 Jun – Sun 8 Jun. The programme features a variety of literary events for all ages, including author talks, exhibitions, writing workshops, comedy shows and music masterclasses.”
North East Lincolnshire – Campaigners attend meeting over libraries changes – BBC. “More than 100 people attended a public meeting over the future of libraries in North East Lincolnshire, a campaign group said. North East Lincolnshire Council wants to move Cleethorpes Library into the town’s leisure centre and turn Waltham Library into a community library run by volunteers. It is also considering moving Grimsby Central Library to a town centre hub.”
North Yorkshire – Libraries launch memory bags to help those living with dementia – Your Harrogate. “Memory bags are now available to pick up from libraries across North Yorkshire, which include items, books, and activities for individuals or groups to improve their quality of life. The bags and their contents aim to promote conversations between people with memory loss as well as their family and friends. The bags contain a selection of books from the Reading Well dementia collection, jigsaws, and sensory items such as fidget toys and scents.”
Northumberland – How mystery library service went unnoticed in village – Hexham Courant. “Joan Lamb, from Whitley Chapel, encourages others to use the Northumberland County Council library van during its regular visits. Despite physical challenges, Joan gathered friends for the van’s arrival last Friday, only for it not to show due to a breakdown. The mystery began when Joan, a member of the WI book club since her surgery, realised the van had been visiting Whitley Chapel regularly, unnoticed. Due to mechanical issues, the old labelled van was replaced by a small white transit van, going unrecognised and unused.”
Suffolk – What will council library takeover mean? – BBC. “Branding appears to be the main thing. Logos are likely to change, as are some contact details like email addresses. The council said there would be some new social media accounts with others rebranded and there would be a new website. People will not need a new library card, their current one will work, however when they expire different ones will be issued.” Council “said there would be an investment of “£200,000 in mobile libraries, with a further £157,000 for new books” … ” the jobs of frontline staff would be “maintained”, however there would be a review of the “back office in general”.” [56 posts are “back office” – Ed.]
Celebrating Suffolk Libraries– Suffolk Libraries. List of achievements since its start in 2012, starting with “Over this time Suffolk Libraries has kept all 44 libraries open – even opening a new 45th branch in 2022 – whilst constantly developing new and innovative services and activities at the heart of Suffolk communities. This has been done at the same time as saving millions of pounds of public money.”
Surrey – Library Gets Lottery Grant To Raise Awareness of Green Issues – Guildford Dragon News. “Guildford Library will receive Lottery funding amounting to £30,000 a year until 2028 to help create environmentally friendly spaces. The money has been granted to create a “green library hub” designed to help raise awareness of environmental issues and help people change their habits.”
First stage of city library improvements completed – BBC. “The first stage of improvements to enhance public facilities at Wolverhampton’s Central Library has been completed. The 1970s extension to the back of the library has been changed, providing two new first-floor offices, ground floor space for book deliveries, sorting and collections and other facilities.”
This week, we have the normal mixture of refurbishments (Stockport and Swansea) and cuts (Barnet, Birmingham and the Isle of Man). There’s also the fallout from the Westminster Hall debate, with several news stories appearing, mainly in the South West, about what the local MPs said. Most of this can be summarised as how important libraries are and how worried the MP is about the danger of potential cuts to them. There’s a big announcement of funding for Green Libraries too. Then there’s a statistical look at the library sector, which confirms that the great majority of library workers are white and female. It also shows that the usage of libraries has declined greatly since the halcyon days when I started this website back in 2010.
My thanks to all the comments, private and public, about last week’s editorial. Using statistics and analysis from Tim Coates raised a few eyebrows but I thought it was interesting. I’m always on the look out for other analyses as well and so do let me know if you see any. One particular comment was, I thought, very enlightening, especially as it was from the former chief of CILIP, Nick Poole. He has been in a perfect place to see what is going on in public libraries and how they are perceived, so I hope he does not mind me quoting his thoughts in full below.
“From my many conversations with Ministers, it is clear that the sector faces a layered challenge: 1) things are bad but not as acutely bad as they are in other public services like the NHS, so attention in Government is limited; 2) local data and feedback shows that the public do not feel as alarmed about the changes in library services as the library sector does, which leads policymakers to think library representatives are asking for special treatment that is disproportionate to voter priorities; 3) the fragmentation of library sector development into localised fiefdoms makes it nigh on impossible to mount an effective national case, particularly when local leaders have come to view national positions as largely irrelevant; 4) Nobody has yet answered the unspoken question that has hung over public libraries – “what are you for now, now that we have the Internet”. I am not validating this question, but it dominates the thinking of those that aren’t all that invested in libraries per se. I think there is still scope for a radical renaissance in the role of the public library as a trusted civic and educational space in the heart of communities, but the vision for this and the will to do it are not yet in place.”
My thanks to Nick. I find it weirdly reassuring that perhaps libraries are not actually seen as being deeply cut by those in power and, to be honest, compared to some other services we are not. There is a danger, which my public library obsession can lead me into, of pleading for libraries as a special case. Well, perhaps not a danger, but an awareness that many others are doing the same thing for their sectors. What is needed is a clear unified view of what public libraries are for (and boo if your immediate answer is “everything”) and how best to fit public libraries into the internet-rich brave new world. I’d love an answer in the comments to that one.
“After a change in the ministerial portfolios within DCMS, from 1 April 2025, Baroness Twycross has now taken up the role as Minister with responsibilities for libraries and she recently visited Harlesden and Willesden Green libraries.” Chris Bryant MP, They Work For You.
“The Minister for Gambling and Heritage is meeting with library sector organisations and leaders to discuss the challenges faced by public libraries and their thoughts on what government support would be helpful. Following this, the Minister will consider her priority policy areas in this remit.” Chris Bryant MP, They Work For You.
Rebuilding the library community in a post-Twitter world – Ned Potter. “Even beyond the ethical arguments against X, it has ceased to function effectively as a communication tool for libraries – the algorithm rewards conflict and suppresses links, and even when you do ‘good’ tweets … they don’t get any reach. It’s time to go.”
UK Culture and Heritage – Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre. A look at the creative sector: Notable points: 80% of library staff is female, second only to dancers. One-fifth of population uses libraries, considerably fewer than visited a museum or gallery. Considerably more women than men use libraries. Around 10% of library staff are non-white. Library sector has highest, just, amount of Christians amongst staff.
Written Statement: Cultural Transformation Capital Grant Programme 2025-26 – Welsh Government. “Since 2017, when its support was extended from public libraries alone to include museums and archives, the Cultural Transformation Capital Programme has invested over £10.5m in local culture sector delivery in Wales, supporting more than 80 projects.” … “The 2025-26 programme is a further investment in local cultural sectors and supports an additional 11 projects – two Archives, six Libraries and three Museums. The value of this year’s programme is just over £1.327m in 2025-26 and £453k in 2026-27.” … “Funding forY Storfa relocation will contribute to the remodelling of the relocated Central Library in Swansea as part of the wider city centre hub programme. Funding will support the fit out of a new library space to create a flexible, accessible, vibrant and useful spaces with extended service availability.”
International news
Australia – Award judges resign after Queensland state library strips writer’s prize over Hamas tweet – Guardian. “At least four judges for the Queensland literary awards have resigned over the past 24 hours, protesting against the State Library of Queensland’s decision to withdraw a prestigious $15,000 fellowship from First Nations writer Karen Wyld over comment she made last year about the Gaza conflict.”
I’m a librarian and you’re right, Mr Luxon. But not for the reasons you think – Newsroom. “The extraordinarily complex job of a librarian almost always requires a master’s degree. There isn’t a single male-dominated profession with comparable skills that requires the same, so why are librarians being repeatedly denigrated?”
USA – Opinion: An ode to public libraries – Wildcat. “Only later did I understand that the library had given us not just comfort. It also offered us possibility. In a world that often reminded us of what we lacked, the library reminded us of what we still had: a right to knowledge, to space and to dream. It was one of the few places that asked for neither money nor documentation, only curiosity and community. For families like ours, it was a sanctuary of health, safety and dignity — a quiet promise that our lives could grow beyond their margins.”
Bath and North East Somerset / Somerset – Somerset libraries are reaching crisis point and rural areas are hit hardest – Somerset Live. “Anna Sabine, the Liberal Democrat MP for Frome and East Somerset, said libraries in her constituency had become cornerstones of community life, offering far more than just books. She singled out Radstock Library, one of 11 community-run libraries in Bath and North East Somerset, as an example of how local initiative can keep these essential spaces alive—even when resources are scarce.”. Several other MPs quotes, from Westminster Hall libraries debate.
Birmingham – Council to close town centre library – BBC. “Sutton Coldfield library would shut on 27 June, due to what the local authority called “significant investment” required to address the building’s condition and health and safety concerns. The closure of the facility, based in the Red Rose Centre, would also allow it to redevelop the site, it added. A spokesperson said the authority remained committed to providing a library service across Sutton Coldfield and a mobile library service would continue.” see also An update on libraries in Sutton Coldfield – Birmingham Council.
Bournemouth Christchurch Poole – BCP library funding cuts ‘damaging’, says Tom Hayes MP – Dorset Echo. “The Bournemouth East Labour MP, Tom Hayes, has spoken in Parliament about the issues. He reflected on his childhood, which he said was spent in poverty while caring for his disabled parents, and the impact libraries had on his life. He said: “Plain and simple, I wouldn’t be an MP but for librarians. “It was a public library, right on my doorstep, that gave me a way to do my homework.”
Buckinghamshire – Preparations for Library Flex underway at Bucks Libraries – Bucks Radio. “Library Flex will increase the opening hours at seven of the main libraries by at least 20%, and Amersham Library’s hours will increase by 129%. Staff will be available during the busiest times, with self-service technology and security measures in place during quieter times. This model also allows for wider community use of library spaces outside of staffed hours. ”
Culture Catch Up: The Other Library On Tour – Buckinghamshire Council. “At each stop, the installation was available to interact with and enjoy. There were writer’s workshops with Sara Clifford that generated material to be added to the installation as it travelled across Bucks. Finally, at every stop, Freewheelers performed a 30-minute, multi-media show featuring dance, monologue and video.”
Caerphilly – Battle on to save South Wales libraries – Socialist Party. “Caerphilly Council voted on 14 May to close ten libraries and one of three threatened leisure centres, two to stay open with reduced facilities and shorter hours. Caerphilly Trades Union Council and local campaigners are working to link up the local areas for a fight to save them all”
List of libraries in Caerphilly borough that are closing – South Wales Argus. “Supporters of the at-risk libraries had held out for last-minute reprieve after backbench councillors called for any closures to be deferred, but those hopes were dashed on Wednesday May 14 when cabinet members pushed ahead with proposals. Some members of the public shouted “disgusting” as they left the council chamber, while a trade union representative called the decision “devastating” and alleged Labour, which controls the local authority, had “left the door wide open for Reform”.”
Cambridgeshire – Cambridgeshire’s most borrowed books revealed for 2024 – Hunts Post. “Richard Osman’s crime novels, “The Bullet That Missed” and “The Thursday Murder Club,” and David McKee’s children’s books, “Elmer and the Tune” and “Elmer and the Race,” all made the top 10. However, the most borrowed book of the year was “The Queen’s Knickers” by Nicholas Allan.”
Croydon – Croydon’s four closed libraries to reopen as community hubs – Sutton and Croydon Guardian. “The libraries at Broad Green, Bradmore Green, Sanderstead, and Shirley were closed to save costs and streamline the council’s services” … “Since 2019, Croydon’s libraries have seen reduced opening hours and budget cuts totalling £800,000.” New non-profits running services in buildings named.
Case Study: Libraries Unlimited – Impact. “Over the past year, the organisation has made important in-roads on quantifying its impact initiatives by partnering with Impact Reporting to develop a bespoke measurement framework. This work shows that activities across the library network generated an estimated £23.9m in monetised social value throughout 2023/24. A figure that is expected to rise as their reporting framework evolves – capturing an even broader range of values and a more in-depth understanding of the role libraries play in shaping a happier, more equitable society.”
Devon Libraries and community groups unite for £1.5m climate action programme– Moorlander. “Backed by £1.5 million in National Lottery funding, the Together for Tomorrow project will harness the unique reach of public libraries and the strength of local partnerships to encourage sustainable living and practical climate action.”
Take part in library customer survey – Mid-Devon Advertiser. “Libraries Unlimited are inviting the general public to take part in its Customer Service Survey.”
Dudley – Writers, poets, musicians and performers prepare to descend on Dudley for festival – Stourbridge News. “Festival will be heading to libraries across the borough with an exciting programme of events. All literary genres will be represented, including crime and thriller, science fiction and fantasy, romance, family saga, historical, young adult, contemporary fiction and comedy as well as poetry, music and plays”
Edinburgh – We feel isolated since our homeless library lost its home – BBC. ” the Streetreads Library was a refuge when they spent more than five years living on the streets and in hostels. Managers of the service have been looking for a new home since January when the lease on a premises at a Methodist Church in Nicholson Square was not renewed.”
Glasgow – Plan revealed for Glasgow building which opened in 1915 – Glasgow Times. “The project includes a new accessible entrance from Battlefield Road, a platform lift and more toilets. An existing staff lounge is set to be transformed into a new community room, which will be available for hire, and iron gates will be installed at the Sinclair Drive entrance.”
Isle of Man –No plans to fund library from education budget – BBC. “The Isle of Man’s Family Library said the facility was set close its doors on 31 July due to expected annual losses of £100,000 as a result of rising costs and declining incomes.” … “It operates a mobile library in rural areas and a home service for those who are housebound, alongside running a library on Westmoreland Road in Douglas offering activities to young people, schools and adults.”
Leicester – Community hubs fear for future amid consultation – BBC. “Leicester City Council, which currently operates 13 community centres and 16 libraries across the city, is asking for the public’s views on a new “service model” operating from 12 multi-service centres and the Central Library.” … “the centres could be transferred to community organisations”
North East Lincolnshire – ‘Save our libraries’ meeting to be held in Lincolnshire – Rayo. ” Council is currently holding its second phase public consultation on the future of the area’s libraries and archive service.” … “There is now a proposal to merge Cleethorpes Library into Cleethorpes Leisure Centre. A permanent move for Grimsby Central Library, closed since March 28, is also an option being reportedly considered.”
Nottingham – Parents desperate to see ‘lifeline’ library opened – BBC. “Jamie, 39, says he is frustrated the new Sherwood library in Nottingham – which was supposed to open in 2024 – has still yet to welcome book lovers. The city council says there are dozens of problems that still need to be resolved by the developer and it still cannot give a date for its opening. As a single dad working a minimum wage job, Jamie said being able to use a free facility this summer would take a “massive burden off” him financially.”
Rutland – Rutland County Council will decide Ryhall Library’s fate in September – Lincs Online. “under threat in its current location, as the county authority says it does not have the funds needed to make the necessary repairs to bring the 1970s building up to a standard needed to become part of its Living Well service.” … “The three other libraries that the authority runs in Uppingham, Ketton and Oakham will however undergo extensive work and should be ready by the end of the year.”
Stockport – Stockport’s new library and cultural centre opens – Stockport Nub News. “Stockroom” is name for news Stockport Central Library. “It’s based on the Merseyway high street, in what was once vacant retail units (formerly Topshop and Mothercare). Visitors will be able to peruse the library, enjoy the cafe, and explore the building from 10am this morning. There will also be a huge range of events taking place at Stockroom over the weekend – including music from legendary DJ Mr Scruff. ” … “Downstairs is a cafe, an events space, the fiction section, and a children’s area. On the upper floor is the non-fiction section, the library archives, and another events space.” … “”This isn’t just a building. It’s a celebration of our town and the people who make it special.” … “Stockroom has been funded by a £14.5m grant from the government’s Future High Streets Fund – plans were first approved in 2021.” see also Library and events space opens in shopping centre – BBC.
Surrey – New library and community hub to open in summer – BBC. “Weybridge Library Hub in Church Street will replace the current library and will include new facilities as well as spaces for youth support services and community groups. A Surrey County Council (SCC) spokesperson said the new hub will open in August 2025.”
Surrey Libraries announced as one of the three Green Library Hubs to be funded by National Lottery Community Funding – Surrey Council. “As a Green Library Hub, Guildford Library will: Train library staff to become more knowledgeable about environmental issues and better able to help the community. Become a community space where people can learn about the environment and attend related events. Help people understand the climate crisis better by focusing on how it affects our local area and getting everyone involved. Support and foster partnerships with local schools, and environmental organisations to make a bigger impact”
West Sussex – West Sussex Library’s Read On Scheme – Reading Agency. “The Read On scheme is about using volunteers to help adults learn to read at their local library. The scheme has demonstrated that there are people within the community who are unable to read or want to improve their reading skills.” … “Our pilot year has worked well and we have now embedded the scheme as a core part of our library service.”
Wirral – ‘I’m on my own with him but this place brings people together’ – Liverpool Echo. “Kym Griffiths has been bringing her son Logan to the St James library in the north end of Birkenhead since he was 15 months old.” … “Kym and Logan are one of the many people who turned out for an event to lobby Wirral Council to keep the library open. The library is based in the St James Centre which is run by the North Birkenhead Development Trust but Wirral Council provides them with £19,000 to keep the library going.”. Council says cut is part of its plan to keep libraries “comprehensive and efficient”.
What people in Wirral are saying about planned library cuts – Wirral Globe. Council says cuts to existing libraries will mean “The proposed eight-site model will refocus available resources, providing the potential for future investment into both the digital offer and Wirral’s remaining suite of library assets.”
Worcestershire – Worcestershire’s Library Service at Home is changing lives – Worcestershire Council. “Run by passionate volunteers from Worcestershire County Council’s Library Service, this fantastic service that handpicks and delivers books is perfect for those who can’t visit a library due to health, mobility, or caring responsibilities.”
The Westminster Hall debate about public libraries this week showed how the sector is currently viewed by MPs. Basically, after one strips out the stuff about how great the libraries are in their own constituency or how the other political parties are so rubbish, the key take away is that those interested enough to show up to this debate on public libraries, are in support of public libraries. There’s a revelation. Sarcasm aside, it is good to see that there is a push for a more national plan for libraries, even though one has to laugh at how urgently the Conservative shadow minister is now taking it, now that his party is no longer in office after 14 years.
The media release by CILIP accompanying the debate shows where the sector leaders want the government to do. Which is basically to recognise that they serve a significant role in helping out with various major problems the country has and that so the various government departments tasked with dealing with those problems should pay them more attention, and start giving them money. Because, basically, cutting any service’s funding by 53% (before inflation is considered) is not showing much support.
The government response, I thought, was a classic of the genre. The outgoing minister, Chris Bryant, who was invisible in the job, pointed out he had visited lots of libraries, including several non-public ones, in his life and how the Conservatives were worse than he was. Chris also regretted that he can promise nothing because, what a shame, the revolving door of library ministers means he’s now escaped his non-functioning role and that the government’s new non-elected appointee will take a while to get up to speed on what a public library is and the impact of more halving its funding may have had. He also did a good job of playing ministerial bingo by saying that libraries got millions from local councils and how difficult is to do anything with libraries being controlled by so many different people. Well done Chris.
Just to show what impact such cuts have had and, to be fair, the societal change since 2010, my thanks to Tim Coates who has helped visualise for me recent figures from the DCMS and CIPFA. It shows, if one takes Covid into account, a reasonably unbroken decline in usage. The figures also show how dependent libraries are on super-users, with 82% of visits done by only 9% of the population
It’s interesting to see that books dominate reasons for using the libraries, despite the continuing trend to downplay that in council press release after press release. But the amount of people using libraries for computers and private study is impressive as well.
And, then, finally, we have the list of what is happening to the physical libraries. Interestingly, 345 have been outsourced to private companies, although the vast majority of these – possibly all – are to non-profits. And then of course there’s hundreds to volunteers. So there’s been a large amount of atomisation to the service.
It’s clear where the direction of travel is for public libraries based on these figures. Which is why it’s so important that such debates happen in parliament and that the sector and its allies keeps shouting. Every single MP would say they support public libraries. It’s just financially supporting them, and co-ordinating them, that they have difficulty with. That needs to change if we want a future for public libraries.
Big Tasty Read Webinar – Reading Agency. “This webinar is for libraries and bookshops to find out how you can get involved in celebrating the Big Tasty Read in summer 2025.” May 22, 10am.
Call for an ambitious National Strategy to safeguard and strengthen public library services – CILIP (media release). “Across political parties, MPs call for a National Strategy for Public Libraries to unlock the full potential of library services across England during a Westminster Hall debate, tabled by Jonathan Davies MP. Public libraries are vital civic infrastructure, but for over a decade they have been undermined by sustained cuts, closures and a lack of strategic direction. The call for a national strategy is backed by CILIP … Libraries Connected, and ASCEL … who represent the public library workforce, Heads of Service, and children and young people’s library service leaders respectively.” … “Public library funding has fallen 53% since 2010. There has been a net loss of 276 libraries since 2016, at a rate of about 40 a year. Poorer areas are four times more likely to lose a library, where libraries are often the last remaining free and trusted local service anybody can just walk into. Over 2,200 professional library jobs have been lost. “. Calls for:
Sustained investment in digital infrastructure and skills with DSIT
Expansion of early literacy and education programmes with DfE
Support for library-based business and innovation hubs with DBT
Formal partnerships between the NHS and public health services with DHSC
Funding to enable cross-sector collaboration between different types of libraries
A sustainable, place-based investment model
Stronger ministerial leadership and cross-government coordination
Clearer accountability for government’s statutory superintendence and improvement duties
Public consultation to shape the future of public library services
“Public libraries are one of our country’s most trusted and transformative services. They foster curiosity and provide knowledge, but also connect communities, unlock opportunity, and boost our economy — often quietly, and always with deep impact. They are already contributing so much to this government’s missions, but that contribution is not fully understood or acknowledged. I called this debate to make the case for a national data hub to help us understand the enormous contributions that libraries make, and for a joined-up, long-term strategy that gives public libraries the recognition and investment they deserve.” Jonathan Davies MP
“Local councils have done all they can to keep libraries open, but after years of funding cuts many services are stretched to breaking point.” Isobel Hunter, Libraries Connected.
Fully Funded Bursaries – CILIP Conference. List of bursaries available. Cheapest one-day package otherwise is £340 or £625 for two days.
Future of Public Libraries – They Work For You. Jonathan Davies MP says “in the face of an explosion of misinformation and a rapidly changing world, that libraries have become a rare beacon of trustworthy information where we can build our knowledge and skills with confidence.” Liberal Democrats push for more funding for rural libraries. Haringey uses evening culture events to promote use. Derbyshire saw £625k cuts. “Derbyshire now has a Reform-led council. We know very little about Reform’s priorities for the authority or how it will run services”. Northern Irish libraries lauded by DUP MP. Volunteer libraries in Bath and North East Somerset commended by Lib Dem MP. Mobile libraries should be supported. Kent Libraries have been severely cut but new Reform leader of council has said they should “appoint some sort of DOGE””. Redbridge Libraries have a combined gym. Conservative MP in Hertfordshire says that new libraries should open. Libraries have role in improving mental health and combatting loneliness. Cuts in Lib Dem-run Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole. Labour MP commends volunteer libraries in North Yorkshire. Chris Bryant MP, the ex minister for libraries, mentions he has used three non-public libraries (British, the private London Library and even Lambeth Palace), along with public ones, and says “Last year, upper-tier local authorities spent £694 million on libraries in England.” [Bingo point – Ed.] and “One of the difficulties with a national strategy is that so much is devolved” Decisions deferred until Baroness Twycross has sufficient time in her new post.
“I know the Minister will not be able to commit to putting more money into libraries, without a strong evidence base for what it will achieve. That strikes at the heart of the problem. We do not know what the extent of public library provision is. We do not know where it is, what it does and what it could do.” Jonathan Davies MP
“I have loved libraries since I was five, although I admit that a library was also the first place I ever got fined” Chris Kane MP
“When most people think of libraries, they picture buildings in disrepair—defunct, disused and on the verge of imminent closure” Jas Athwal MP
“we are disappointed that the Minister, Baroness Twycross, has so far avoided giving a direct answer to a direct question on this matter, so I ask the Minister here today: when will his Department publish a strategy for English public libraries, as many Members have called for?” Louie French MP
Greater Manchester has best library access via public transport in the country – Mancunian Matters. “Up to 60% of Greater Manchester residents live within 15 minutes of public libraries, Ordnance Survey data has revealed. The data studied bus, tram and train routes all over the area, including Stockport and Trafford. The study, published in October 2024, demonstrated that 29% of Bolton residents and 61% of Salford residents are all within easy access of their local libraries.”
Libraries celebrate success of regional funding – Libraries Connected. £90,000 grant from “The Combined Regions”, “an organisation that promotes co-operation between UK libraries”. Each region is doing it’s own separate project.
Libraries Change Lives – CILIP. 2-8 June. “Libraries Change Lives is an advocacy campaign capturing and celebrating the impact of libraries, putting the sector on a public platform where libraries, library staff and library users can showcase the value of their service – both locally and nationally. “
Power in partnerships: Libraries, charities, MPs, businesses – Good Things Foundation. “Good Things Foundation and our strategic partner Vodafone met with James Frith MP in Bury Library to find out more about how they’re tackling digital inclusion locally.” … “Visits to digital inclusion hubs like Bury Library bring to life the impact that digital inclusion is having on people’s lives, giving them that essential connection to the digital world. Partnerships like ours with Vodafone and the dedication of places like Bury Library are absolutely vital in making sure no one gets left behind in our increasingly digital society.”
International news
Ireland -My Little Library Book Bag at Louth Library Service – Drogheda Life. ” Libraries Ireland has put together a free bag of books and resources that can be collected from library branches through County Louth. The ‘My Little Library Book Bag’ initiative is a collaboration between libraries, the Department of Rural and Community Development, and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth as part of the First 5 Strategy. ‘My Little Library Book Bag’ is availablefree for every child starting school in 2025 to help them prepare for this big step.”
Two Trump appointees escorted out of Library of Congress amid White House takeover, report says – Independent. “Donald Trump’s termination of Register of Copyrights, Shira Perlmutter, is a brazen, unprecedented power grab with no legal basis. It is surely no coincidence he acted less than a day after she refused to rubber-stamp Elon Musk’s efforts to mine troves of copyrighted works to train AI models”
Want to reduce crime? Science says: build more libraries. – Lit Hub. “Our results show that public libraries may reduce crime within its nearby proximity; in particular, we find within the nearby proximity of the library; there is a substantial reduction in frequency of burglaries, vandalism, robberies, fraud, and assaults.”
Local news by authority
Bradford – Art projects carried out with people living with dementia to be launched – Telegraph and Argus. “Both projects are part of the University of Bradford’s contribution to the City of Culture year.”. “Display at Shipley Library.”‘Beyond Memory’ will then be displayed at Shipley Library from May 24 to June 12, with a related workshop on June 6, before moving to Manningham, Keighley, and Central libraries.”
Bristol – Bristol’s libraries described as a ‘zombie service’ – B24/7. “Labour tabled an amendment to the proposed working group’s remit to say permanently shutting any of the 26 branches, plus a community-run access point in Lockleaze, should be off the table and not supported by the committee.” … “But the Greens, Lib Dems and Conservatives voted it down by 6-3 after hearing it would predetermine the taskforce’s recommendations when it reports back in November and deter residents from taking part in the process because it cut the options available.”
Caerphilly – Council axes 10 libraries and branded ‘disgusting’ in heated meeting – Wales Online. “The decision sparked an outcry in the public gallery with some members of the public shouting “disgusting” as they exited the council chamber.” … “The libraries in Aberbargoed, Abercarn, Abertridwr, Bedwas, Deri, Llanbradach, Machen, Nelson, Oakdale, and Pengam will all cease operations on August 31.”
Camden – British Library takes young visitors on a journey through storytelling – British Library. “Opening 16 May, Story Explorers is a free, experiential space offering children aged 2-9 and their families the chance to discover the British Library’s collection through imagination and play, featuring sound recordings from the Library’s Sound Archive, artworks, prints and books from across the world”
Thousands of books missing from the British Library’s collection – South West Londoner. “Some of the older books in the collection which are lost, dating from as early as the late 1500s, are rare copies of manuscripts or first edition books, which could be worth thousands of pounds.” … “The British Library has lost three Charles Dickens original issues” … “An assistant librarian working for a London-based scientific institution said that while most of the time misplaced books are not necessarily lost, it is mainly due to disorganisation that the library does not know where they are.”
City of London – Tightrope walkers, Poirot’s flat, an unexpected tiger, and Wapping’s transformation feature in Guildhall Library’s events programme – City of London Council. “Visitors to Guildhall Library will soon discover the locations of Hercule Poirot’s apartment and Lenin’s office, how acrobats performing in Shakespearean London helped inspire our greatest playwright, and which City street was once the most important thoroughfare in Britain. The self-styled, City of London Corporation-owned ‘Library of London’s History’, which is celebrating the 600th anniversary of its founding, has now published its May to August events programme.”
Croydon –Croydon libraries that shut to save money will reopen – just not as libraries – My London. “Croydon’s four recently closed library buildings are set to get a new lease of life as community hubs.” … “Since 2019, Croydon’s libraries have seen reduced opening hours and budget cuts totalling £800,000. All four buildings had become recognised local landmarks, and news of their potential closure sparked strong community campaigns in response.” .. Libraries will become an Asian resource centre, a preschool, a health and wellbeing centre, and a nursery.
Devon – Devon libraries bring Shaun the Sheep and Wallace to life – Devon Live. “Children across Devon and Torbay are in for a treat this October half term as Libraries Unlimited launches StoryFest, a new week-long festival of reading in partnership with acclaimed animation studio Aardman. The festival begins on Saturday, October 25, with a packed day of live events at Exeter Library, including appearances from Shaun the Sheep, a Vegetable Orchestra, and Shaun Dares Ewe, promising an immersive and playful experience for families. StoryFest continues with three days of model making and animation workshops at Barnstaple, Paignton and Exeter libraries …”
Book Swap a success at Morchard Bishop – Crediton Courier. “Since the demise of the Devon County Council Mobile Library Van Service to Morchard Bishop, a Village Book Swap, housed in the Memorial Hall has proved very popular; likewise the tea, coffee and cakes also on offer.”
Manchester – Manchester Libraries – winner of the Library of the Year Award – Manchester Council. “The revival of the Library of the Year award at this year’s British Book Awards event was awarded to Manchester Libraries in recognition of its multi-strand and city-wide Blue Peter Book Club Live programme which made ‘superb’ use of the revered Blue Peter brand to bring children and families into contact with libraries and reading. The programme engaged with people who had never or very rarely visited a library, resulting in an 88% visitor increase compared to a typical Saturday, with 60% of these attendees living in an area of high deprivation.”
Norfolk – Library to open after £17m refurbishment – BBC. “About 100 guests have been invited to mark the opening of The Place – on the site of the former Palmers shop – in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. The building also has a community hub and a learning centre offering diplomas, degrees, courses and community services. Conservative councillor, Carl Smith, said: “The Place is one of the biggest regeneration projects the town has seen in recent years.””
North East Lincolnshire –New Labour group leader urges libraries rethink as petitions get hundreds of signatures – Grimsby Telegraph. “Labour ‘s new group leader in North East Lincolnshire has urged “a rethink” on the possible futures of Grimsby and Cleethorpes libraries. There is currently a second public consultation by the council on North East Lincolnshire’s libraries and archive services. Options being considered include merging Cleethorpes Library into Cleethorpes Leisure Centre, and a possible move for Grimsby Central Library, which has been closed since late March due to a water leak creating a risk of asbestos disturbance. The first consultation asked for the public’s views on libraries in shopping and leisure centres.”
Nottingham – Nottingham council confirms who it wants to run three libraries as ‘heartbreaking’ closure avoided – Nottingham Post. “Nottingham City Council has confirmed the company it would like to take over three of its libraries after their “heartbreaking” closure was avoided. The Labour-run authority has been “under immense pressure” trying to save £1.5 million from its library service and previous plans would have seen four of them shut.” … ” Radford-Lenton is still set to be run by the council, but the authority says it will become a “centralised stock hub” featuring a scaled-down library service.” … The other three libraries will be taken over by “The Nottingham-based Castle Cavendish” which “oversees a property portfolio worth £2.8 million, including retail units and business centres. The company uses the net proceeds from this property portfolio, along with grants from various funding bodies, to support a range of charitable projects in Nottingham.
No end in sight for delays to new library after ’empty promises’– Nottingham Post. “Promises from a developer to fix a string of problems to get the long-delayed Sherwood Library open to the public have not been kept, a city councillor has said. The opening of the library in Spondon Street was delayed beyond a planned summer opening last year, following the discovery of dozens of problems with the building.”
Nottinghamshire – Free virtual reality tour visits Nottinghamshire Libraries – Chad. “Digital Spaces is an ambitious new programme in association with Arts Council England, BFI, awarding National Lottery funding and The Space. Launching in 2025, this forward-thinking initiative project will deliver an array of digital experiences in Mansfield, Worksop, Kirkby-in-Ashfield and Beeston – starting with one of two awe-inspiring virtual reality tours.”
Shropshire – Shropshire Libraries launch new neurodiversity collection – Advertiser. “Unveiled in April 2025, coinciding with World Autism Acceptance Month, the collection is aimed at neurodiverse individuals, as well as their parents, carers, and professionals. The collection, made possible through funding from the Integrated Care System, features both fiction and non-fiction titles.”
Slough – Under-threat libraries will not close, council says – BBC. “The council ran a consultation on the plans, which residents used to share their “passion for libraries and communities”, according to lead member of education and children’s services Puja Bedi. She said the council had “already started scoping ideas” for how all four of Slough’s libraries could stay open.” … “The council said it was considering continuing with the current model, but was considering moving to a family hub model in Cippenham.”
Somerset – Somerset residents urged to check blood pressure with free library loan kits this weekend – Somerset Live. “Libraries across Somerset are offering more than just books this weekend – residents can also borrow blood pressure testing kits for free as part of a major public health push around World Hypertension Day on Saturday, May 17. Somerset Council and NHS Somerset are teaming up to raise awareness about hypertension – often dubbed the ‘silent killer’ …”
Public apathy as councillors try to decide future of Wiveliscombe’s community library – Wellington Weekly News. “the working group was told only seven survey forms were returned by people who attended the meetings, who totalled 55 the first time and only 23 on the second occasion, some of whom were at both. And only two people had expressed an interest to volunteer in the library, while nobody said they wanted to help form a new charity or community interest company to take the library forward.”
Suffolk – Bungay Library celebrates new look library– Suffolk Libraries. “The project has been carried out by local builders, Sprake and Tyrell, thanks to £32,400 funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) via East Suffolk Council, £39,000 raised by The Friends of Bungay Library with support from local charities, in addition to £70,000 from Suffolk County Council.” … “This now provides better access for older or disabled customers and those with prams or buggies. Sheltered canopy areas also provide ‘parking’ for prams and buggies, freeing up space inside the library. There is also a storage facility for chairs, folding tables and other equipment making it easier to set up the main library space for meetings and activities. This will enable the library to host more events in future. There is also a new Privacy Pod which can be used by Barclays Bank for their customer drop-in sessions at the library …”
Ipswich resident annoyed car park sign at Broomhill Library – Ipswich Star. “He believes that there is not enough residential parking space in the area, hence many residents understood that they could use this car park, especially in case they had guests over.” [No comment – Ed.]
Lowestoft Library marks 50th anniversary – Suffolk Libraries. “The library is marking the anniversary with a series of activities and events including an exhibition celebrating the history of the town’s library from 1905. On Saturday 10 May the library’s Saturday Fun session for children held a birthday party with children invited to come dressed as their favourite book character.”
Suffolk Libraries launch project to help prevent falls – Ipswich Star. “The Falls Prevention Project, in partnership with East Suffolk Council, will offer Otago Strength and Balance classes at Kesgrave and Framlingham libraries, as well as online.”
Surrey – Latest Library Hub opens up in the heart of Weybridge local community – Surrey Council. “The new Library Hub in Weybridge will host a mix of services including Brooklands Radio, a new modern Library, Youth Services, and an overall community space that will provide universal access for all residents. Facilities include areas for agile working, meeting pods, studying, accessing support and a space to meet socially.”
Westmorland and Furness – Libraries bring history to life with new shipyard memories resource – Westmorland and Furness Council. “Westmorland and Furness Libraries has brought Barrow’s shipbuilding heritage to life with a new reminiscence resource capturing the voices and memories of those who lived and worked through it. Last year, members of the public including Barrow Shipyard workers and local veterans were invited to share their memories, stories, photographs and items as part of a Memory Lane Project.”
York – How York’s libraries are full of surprises – and not just full of books – York Press. “In this article, Dave Fleming and Holly Beer from Explore York Libraries and Archives talk about the remarkable arts and culture experiences they are bringing to the city’s libraries. From performances and exhibitions to community radio projects, the goal is simple: make high-quality arts and culture accessible to everyone, at the heart of communities.”
It’s good to see that there will be a 90 minute debate on public libraries at Westminster Hall this week. While it will likely be nothing more than a few politicians expressing platitudes, it does at least mean MPs will need to think about the sector for a bit. So, well done to CILIP for working with Jonathan Davis MP (Labour, Mid Derbyshire) and let’s hope they’re right to think this may help pull public library investment back into the spotlight. Heaven knows its needed. They’ve been in touch with CILIP members to help them email their local MP and encourage them to participate.
And now, in our frequent Mad Vindictive Things Trump Does coverage, we have the sad news that he’s sacked the Librarian of Congress, Carla Hayden, apparently after reading a tweet by a far-right group that she’s “woke”. Via a short email because a letter or something face-to-face would presumably have taken up too much time. Carla has done a lot in her time as the Librarian, a post formerly known as a bit of a sinecure, and it’s really sad to see her go. This is someone who I have seen speak, been a few feet away from, and admire. Makes me want to spit.
Finally, I’d like to speak out in praise of adult book challenges. No, not challenges to books but, rather, promotions where adults are asked to do “book bingo” (where they read books outside of their comfort zone) or a set number of books (just two over the Summer is probably challenge enough for many). Consider setting one up this Summer to run with your children’s reading challenge. It’s a great time to push reading to all the parent joining kids up to the SRC and many will be going on holiday. Encourage them to read a book while they’re sunning themselves, and join the library before they go.
National news
CILIPS Awards 2025 – CILIPS. “We are delighted to announce that the shortlisted professionals for our 2025 award are: Laragh Quinney, Maps Reading Room Manager at the National Library of Scotland; Tara Hepburn, Library Officer at East Dunbartonshire Libraries; Gavin Johnstone, Digital Services Librarian at Falkirk Libraries”
Demonstrating Impact: Libraries Leading in a Changing World – CILIP. “Join the CILIP East Midlands Network for an important and inclusive conversation about how libraries and knowledge services can thrive and lead in a fast-changing world.” 16 May 4-5pm. online.
“The Secretary of State has a range of discussions with Cabinet colleagues across the whole of her portfolio. DCMS officials regularly discuss funding for public libraries with their counterparts across His Majesty’s Government including the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government with regard to local government funding. Public libraries are funded by local authorities. Each local authority is responsible for assessing the needs of their local communities and designing a delivery model to meet those requirements within available resources. The government is committed to getting local government back on its feet. The final Local Government Finance Settlement for 2025-26 makes available over £69 billion for local government, which is a 6.8% cash terms increase on 2024-25.” Chris Bryant, They Work For You. [Warning – Minister Vaguely To Do With Libraries Bingo does not count for this one as Chris has just finished his a-few-months ministerial stint, it only starts with Fiona Twycross, which is a shame as there’s a couple of easy points here – Ed.]
Future of public libraries – House of Commons Library, research briefing. “There will be a Westminster Hall debate on the future of public libraries at 9:30am on 14 May 2025. The debate will be opened by Jonathan Davies MP.” … “The Library will produce briefing ahead of this debate, and this page will be updated when it is published.” see also Wednesday, 14 May 2025: Upcoming business – TheyWorkForYou.
Get involved in this year’s Fun Palaces weekend – Creative Lives. “This year’s Fun Palaces weekend will take place from 3-5 October 2025 – and everyone is welcome to take part. A nationwide celebration of community-led culture, Fun Palaces is a great way to celebrate your creative activity and perhaps encourage other people to get involved. ” … “there’s a range of support available for first-time organisers – including a series of in-person workshops taking place in Margate, Redruth, Sheffield, Bristol, Leeds, and London, as well as online resources and toolkits”
Mayor should take leadership on the issue of South Yorkshire libraries – Yorkshire Post Letters – Yorkshire Post. “The county’s libraries have been ravaged and destroyed by years of austerity, Doncaster having seen its number of staffed libraries drop from 26 to four, Sheffield from 28 to 12.” … “The mayor’s own team published many pieces of research relating the desperate need to upskill the workforce and increase literacy in the poorest areas yet no thought or mention is made of making the case for a coordinated plan to improve library provision.”
MS calls for Senedd debate on ‘importance of libraries’ – South Wales Argus. “A Senedd debate on the “importance of libraries” has been called for by Plaid Cymru’s deputy leader. It comes ahead of Caerphilly Council’s decision to potentially axe library services in some areas within the borough. South Wales East MS Delyth Jewell said: “I am calling for a government debate on the importance of libraries to our communities. “Across Caerphilly borough, 10 libraries are at risk of closure.” … “”In times of austerity, surely more support must be given to councils to make sure they’re kept open.””
We are all the same age inside a library – curious, young and eager to learn – Big Issue. Robin Ince article. “At the front of the library audience is Joyce. She has lost her husband and only has one surviving child. She comes up to me to talk afterwards and I feel the joy of seeing how some of my words have connected with her. In the library, we are all the same age. We are all curious and young. An eagerness to learn eviscerates the age gap. As I leave, I see a five-year-old with a face of glee marching to the library, the excitement for books and stories is palpable. I look at the jigsaw and connect one more piece of sky. “
International news
Ireland – Mullingar Library’s All Star Book Club – Reading Agency. “Initial contact was made by Sinead Flynn, Downs Syndrome Ireland’s Adult Education Officer, regarding setting up a book club in the library. Sinead introduced us to prospective members”
Italy – Diller Scofidio + Renfro creates temporary translucent library at Venice Architecture Biennale – De Zeen. “The 24-metre-long pavilion has a lightweight structure designed for transportability and “to support literacy and a love of reading” in various locations.” … “La Liberia is unanchored to the ground and stabilised by a mix of ballasts and books, encased in wooden shelving that runs the length of the library.”
Nigeria – Echoes in empty halls: The unseen crisis of staffing shortages in our libraries – Business Day. ” Institutions serving over 7,000 users and managing thousands of volumes in print, non-print, and electronic formats are being operated by just five library staff members — including the university librarian. This is not only unsustainable but detrimental to the quality of service provided to users.”
USA – Donald Trump fires Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden over email – Irish Star. Carla Hayden, African-American woman appointed by Obama, was told of her dismissal in a short email. “”President Trump fired our nation’s Librarian, Dr. Carla Hayden, by email at 6:56 p.m. tonight, taking his assault on America’s libraries to a new level,” [Democrat Senator] Heinrich wrote on X. “Over the course of her tenure, Dr. Hayden brought the Library of Congress to the people, with initiatives that reached into rural communities and made the Library accessible to all Americans, in person and online.”” see also Trump abruptly fires librarian of Congress in latest purge of government – Guardian. Term was set to expire next year. ““The current #LibrarianOfCongress Carla Hayden is woke, anti-Trump, and promotes trans-ing kids,” the AAF said on its X account earlier on Thursday, just hours before the firing was made public.” and Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden is fired by Trump – Politico. “The White House confirmed Hayden’s firing but did not offer further comment.” … “She launched a strategic plan for the library and was shepherding a complete overhaul of the visitor experience, including significant structural changes to create a new way for visitors to view the iconic reading room. Hayden faced criticism from House Republicans at a House Administration hearing Tuesday about cost increases and delays to that project.” Librarians do not have any protection from being fired by the President: Congress is trying to change that.
‘Free for All’ documentary tells story of public libraries’ critical roles throughout history and today – Current. “Widespread screening events are expanding the audience for “Free for All: The Public Library,” an Independent Lens documentary that explores the crucial role of American libraries throughout history and the crises threatening the institutions today.”. Documentary makers were caught in library after storm. ““It was just amazing,” Faulknor said. “They’re first responders. I had no idea librarians were first responders.””
How Should We Prepare Librarians to Lead? – Katina. “Retention issues—driven, among other factors, by staff dissatisfaction and burnout—are a key concern in public library systems. To solve the problem, we first need to close the leadership competency gap.”
Bridgend – Awen Cultural Trust’s 21 Book Challenge – Reading Agency. “What has been particularly heartening is to witness different user groups start to blend as they discuss the Challenge – who’s ticked off which theme, what book they choose to read for a theme and, to the surprise of all, how popular Westerns have been with almost everyone”
Bristol – Parties clash on bid to rule out closures of libraries – Western Daily Press. Greens refuse to commit to keep all libraries open, after Labour push. Council dropped plans to halve library budget in February. Working group now working out what to do in new library four year plan.
Glasgow – Glasgow institutions awarded funding for innovative projects – Glasgow Times. “The Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) has granted a share of £34,000 to six libraries and information centres across Scotland, including three in Glasgow, to support pioneering projects in 2025. Since 2013, the SLIC Innovation and Development Fund has awarded more than £400,000 to more than 40 projects.” … “By backing bold, creative projects, we’re not just supporting innovation but helping services redefine their offering in a rapidly changing world”
North Ayrshire – Students invited to use new study space at Arran Library – West Coast Today. Paywall. “The Arran Library in Brodick and libraries across North Ayrshire are offering study spaces for students who need a quiet place to concentrate without distractions.” see also New study spaces set up across North Ayrshire libraries – North Ayrshire Council. “Developed earlier this year, the dedicated study spaces have been funded by Scottish Library and Information Council through the Scottish Government’s Public Library Improvement Fund. The new study spaces are perfectly timed with many pupils now on study leave, so why not give them a try?”
Oldham – Oldham Archives is on the move – Oldham Council. “Since March 2024, a temporary service has operated in Oldham Library. This temporary service will close at 4pm on Saturday 31 May 2025.”
Perth and Kinross – Perth and Kinross residents do not want volunteer-run libraries – Daily Record. “Perth and Kinross residents are not interested in having volunteer-led library services. Culture Perth and Kinross chief Helen Smout recently told councillors there was “no appetite” for this in the area.” … “The council’s U-turn on libraries was made following the passionate protests of hundreds of library users, who successfully fought to save five rural libraries – Alyth, Auchterarder, Birnam, Comrie and Scone – from closure. Over 5000 signatures were collected on petitions, and a series of demonstrations were held, including one attended by around 300 protestors and local politicians outside Perth Museum in January 2025.” … “However Ms Smout stressed “identifying a long-term operating model for libraries might take different forms in different communities depending on the need and interests”.”
Peterborough – Woodston Library campaigners ‘on tour’ to support rock choir for Mental Health Awareness Week – Woodston Library Campaign (press release). “A community campaign group set up to breathe new life into its neglected library and help improve the wellbeing of local residents has been invited to take part in an event organised by CPSL Mind for Mental Health Awareness Week on Tuesday 13 May, Cathedral Square, Peterborough – 12.30pm to 3.30pm. The Friends of Woodston Library’s Knit and Natter group has gone from strength to strength since it was formed six months ago – bringing local people together to share time, learn new skills and support one another and help bring their community together.”
Reading – Reading loves reading 24 May – 13 September – Reading Council. Summer Reading Challenge. “New for 2025, Reading Libraries are launching a Book Bingo Challenge for teenagers and adults.” … “On Saturday 24 May each library will be making a full-size library scarecrow mascot.”
Rutland – ‘We are not going to let Ryhall Library go down without a fight’: Rutland Councillors discuss library’s future – Oakham Nub News. “there has been a public campaign to keep the doors of the 1970s building open with villagers of all ages signing a petition to underline the importance of the venue. “. Independent councillor says “”We all know about community assets being lost and we are not going to let Ryhall Library go down without some sort of fight. I believe and the community believes there is a way forward. We just want the opportunity to be able to put the views to council.” “
“Some of our libraries have fewer than one person a day attending them – is that sustainable? No. But can we put the library together with some other building and get a vibrant centre for a village or town? And that’s really where the consultation piece comes in.”
Bill Douglas, Live Borders Chairman
Sheffield – Have your say on library opening times for Easter 2026 – Sheffield Council. “Historically, Sheffield Council-run libraries have shut on the Saturday over the Easter weekend. To help us plan for 2026, we want to better understand the impact of closing on Easter Saturday. Please take a minute to tell us your thoughts in this quick survey.”
Shropshire – Shropshire Libraries launches Neurodiversity Collection – Shropshire Council. “The new collection of fiction and non-fiction titles aimed at neurodiverse children and adults, as well as the parents, carers and professionals who support them, have been carefully chosen by librarians working with specialists in the field. The collection was made possible by funding from the Integrated Care System.”
Staffordshire – Library to temporarily move during £4m revamp – BBC. “Leek Library in Leek, Staffordshire, will relocate to Moorlands House from its current base in the Grade II-listed Nicholson Institute. It was scheduled to move towards the end of May, but the relocation was delayed after revisions were made to the programme of works on the Nicholson Institute’s £4m revamp. Catherine Mann, of Staffordshire County Council, said the authority was “delighted” to be refurbishing the library, one of 43 it currently runs. An exact date for the library’s relocation has not been confirmed but the council said it would be “later this summer”. The refurbishment has been funded through a £17.1m government grant, awarded in 2023, for town centre improvements.”
Walsall – Celebrate VE Day with activities at Walsall Libraries – Walsall Council. “From crafting sessions for children to live music and tea parties for the community, there is something for everyone to remember and celebrate this significant historical milestone.”
West Sussex – Free books to encourage a love of reading – West Sussex Council. “Residents who have had a Safe and Well Visit from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service have been given a free book to help them discover – or rediscover – a love of reading.” World Book Night book.
Six crime writers to visit Wirral libraries in June – Wirral Globe. “It will be an ‘in conversation’ evening featuring Gina Kirkham, a retired Wirral police officer turned author; David Jackson, a Liverpool-born and Wirral resident crime writer; and Luca Veste, who is of Italian-Scouse heritage.”. TM Logan, Kate Ellis, and TM Payne at other events.
Update issued on library cuts as promise made to three Merseyside areas – Liverpool Echo. “The local authority said the proposals would create “comprehensive, modern, accessible and sustainable facilities that will meet the needs of Wirral communities,” adding this would be in line with the law”
Wolverhampton – Libraries to launch new ‘relaxed’ reading groups – Pheonix. “They are designed to encourage people to share their joy of reading with others – with participants invited to read what they want, discuss the books with others and generally relax in their local library.”
The local council elections have led to Reform being in charge of ten councils who control UK library services. These are Derbyshire, Doncaster, Durham, Kent, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, North Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire and West Northamptonshire. The Reform Party policy document does not mention public libraries but some of the other stated aims may well impact the sector so one can speculate what this will mean. It will be interesting for instance if librarians will still be able to work from home (although perhaps they will) and there may well be raised councillor eyebrows at book displays to do with climate change or DEI. While it’s possible that the new Lancashire councillors may not entirely welcome their libraries being a Library of Sanctuary, it’s great news that Reform commit to repairing broken public services. That’s at least ten services in line for extra funding then.
But the biggest thing to watch will be on library book stock. There have already been numerous challenges to libraries stocking titles perceived to be promoting LGBT and it’s difficult to see at least some of the new Reform councillors not thinking of asking for a review of their own library stock. Of course, on the other hand, Reform’s policies specifically attack “political bias or cancel culture” so perhaps no such revisions will take place due to this commitment to free speech. If for some reason, however, LGBT stock does come under the spotlight, it will be a huge challenge to CILIP’s commitment to intellectual freedom. Whether a library denuded of LGBT titles would pass the ACE Libraries Development Framework will also be in question. The chief librarians, and their staff, will presumably have very little choice in the matter either way apart from taking early retirement for unspecified reasons. And then there’s the question of if any affected public library service still offers the legally required “comprehensive and efficient” service if certain books are taken off the shelves. Now that would be an interesting one for Baroness Twycross, assuming she’s still in post.
Local elections 2025: full mayoral and council results for England – Guardian. Library services now under Reform control are Derbyshire, Doncaster, Durham, Kent, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, North Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire and West Northamptonshire.
Public Library Closures – They Work For You. “DCMS estimates the number of static libraries that have permanently closed (and not been replaced by or relocated to a new static library) in England in each of the last 10 years is as follows: …
The Reading Agency and BBC Arts launch the Big Tasty Read as part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, celebrating the power of food through books – Reading Agency. “The Big Tasty Read – a new national celebration of reading and collaboration between national charity The Reading Agency and BBC Arts – will launch at this summer’s Bradford Literature Festival (27 June – 6 July 2025), using the universal appeal of food to inspire reading and bring communities together. Delivered as part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, the campaign will continue with an exciting programme of events led by Bradford Council’s Bradford Libraries, engaging audiences across the district and beyond. “
Reform policies: What will Nigel Farage’s party actually do after local election wins? – Independent. “It has promised a British DOGE (Department for Government Efficiency) in each local authority it gains control of. Ms Jenkyns will likely be responsible for rolling out the first as mayor of Greater Lincolnshire. The party hopes it will discover “wasteful” spending on diversity and inclusivity programmes, allowing it to slash spending and cut local taxes in turn” … “vowed staff working for Reform-controlled councils will be ordered back to their offices”
Canada – Mysterious smell plaguing local library prompts closure – CBC. “A mysterious odour has been plaguing a local library branch, leading to intermittent closures over the past year, the county’s top librarian says. Now, officials are shutting down the branch in Stoney Point for the near future to finally pinpoint the source of the smell. “It’s sort of time to do some very serious exploratory testing and see if we can’t deal with this for once and for all,” says Adam Craig, Essex County’s chief librarian.”
USA -2025 Library Systems Report – American Libraries. “the library technology industry showed its maturity in 2024. Businesses have become increasingly stable and robust products delivered rich functionality. But decades of consolidation have created a narrower slate of competitors, resulting in a smaller number of products available for each type and size of library. The marketplace is seeing more specialized solutions but fewer options.”
Federal Court Halts Dismantling of IMLS in ALA Lawsuit – American Libraries. ” the US District Court for the District of Columbia temporarily blocked the Trump administration from dismantling the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), as directed by a March 14 executive order. The temporary restraining order was issued in response to a lawsuitfiled by ALA and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), the largest union representing library workers.”
Imagining A Louisville Without Libraries And Museums – Voice Tribune. “a Louisville without libraries and museums would be a less curious, less connected, less compassionate place. These institutions don’t just educate, they humanize. They remind us of where we’ve been and point us toward where we could go. Without them, we’d still be a city, but we’d be a city with far less heart. And so, I would like to encourage our readers to support and keep these most precious cornerstones of our community in mind, especially as we approach a time in our history when they are being increasingly disregarded and even deemed “unnecessary.” “
Local news by authority
Bradford – Keighley Library reopening after £150,000-plus refurbishment – Keighley News. “Work to the Grade II-listed building included a new counter, flooring and furniture, plus redecoration. Also, a revised layout features dedicated study spaces, a purpose-built children’s area and flexible accommodation for events and activities. The refurb was financed with UK Shared Prosperity Fund cash.”
Brighton and Hove – Campaign started to save community libraries in Brighton – Rayo. “Sarah Craven-Antill set up the petition – Stop the Closure of Brighton’s Community Libraries – on the Change.org website. She has already started a campaign to protect Rottingdean library from council cuts but wants to expand the campaign city-wide. The Rottingdean petition has attracted more than 2,250 signatures – more than the 1,250 required to trigger a council debate. Now Mrs Craven-Antill wants to show same support for all libraries with the new petition which has more than 12) [sic – Ed.] signatures already.”
Caerphilly – Don’t close our library: We won’t play Labour’s ‘Hunger Games’ – Socialist Party. “Labour Caerphilly council proposes to close ten libraries, saving £500,000 over three years, claiming to concentrate resources into hubs – that they expect people to travel miles to. Our debate was organised as ten one-minute exchanges on how we can stop this – followed by an open discussion. The Plaid Cymru councillor didn’t address the issue. She told us we were a deprived area – which didn’t sit well with our pride.”
Cheshire West and Chester – Unearthed: The Power of Gardening to tour Cheshire libraries – Northwich and Winsford Guardian. “The free exhibition, titled Unearthed: The Power of Gardening, will be touring Cheshire West and Chester libraries from May 2025 to March 2026. It aims to explore the transformative, enriching, and sometimes radical power of gardening. Cheshire West and Chester Libraries Service is one of 30 services across the UK that will be celebrating gardening as part of the Living Knowledge Network, in partnership with the British Library’s major exhibition from May 2 to August 10, 2025.”
Devon – Devon libraries launch free summer challenge for children – Tavistock Times Gazette. “Based on Libraries Unlimited’s popular reading challenge for five to twelve-year-olds ‘The Secret Book Quest’, The Summer Book Quest sees beloved characters Pip, Zena and Libro head off on a new adventure. The theme for the first year is The Deep Sea Adventure, based on the Underwater Zone in The Secret Book Quest.”
Braunton crowned South West Library of the Year – BBC. “Braunton Library was singled out in the British Book Awards 2025 for its creativity and work in the community. The library hosts numerous groups, including a Lego club for children, knit and natter and coffee and crochet groups for adults, as well as creative writing sessions.”
Dudley – 40th anniversary celebration for Stourbridge Library – Express and Star. “Anyone who has been involved with the library over the last four decades is invited to come along from 2pm-4pm. There will be refreshments, photo displays and plenty of opportunity to reminisce.”
Gloucestershire – Guinea pig visits proving a hit with library group – BBC. “A group of guinea pigs have been visiting an over-50s group at a local library. Lisa Pontins-Medes, an assistant at Newent Library in Gloucestershire, has been bringing her six pet guinea pigs to work to spend time with the group. She also takes them to schools, cafes and other groups around the town, where they have become something of a hit.” Lovely video.
New Borough Vision officially launched – Haringey Council. “The vision sets out how the council will work together with partners, residents, and Haringey’s thriving voluntary and community sector to create a borough where everyone can belong and thrive.”
Jersey – Chief librarian cites rise in book vandalism in UK from US influence – Jersey Evening Post. “Speaking in his capacity as president of Libraries Connected, that represents British public libraries, Mr Jewell said “anecdotal evidence” from his charity members were pointing to an increase in demand to remove or vandalise certain books on public library shelves.” … “LGBTQ+ materials were the large focus of the censorship and vandalism”
Leicester – Library marks 120 years with week of free activities – Leicester Council. “the Bishop Street library is inviting local families to step back in time and experience the library as it might have been in 1905, with the help of Edwardian toys, writing implements and archive materials loaned by Leicester Museums.” and other events.
Bid to protect Leicester libraries and visitor attractions from cuts rejected– Leicester Mercury. “Leicester City Council has thrown out a bid to protect its libraries, community centres and visitor attractions from cuts amid a backdrop of residents’ protests” .. “assistant mayor for health, culture, libraries and community centres, Vi Dempster said the Labour group has done “everything possible” to protect frontline services “from years and years of austerity”. But, the hard-up council is now having to look at libraries and community centres to “ensure that they are a long-term sustainable resource for our communities”.”
Union slams council’s ‘ill-judged and short-sighted’ planned cuts to libraries – Leicester Mercury. “Union officials have claimed council plans to close Leicester libraries and community centres are “ill-judged and short-sighted”. The Leicester City branch of Unison fears that if approved, “communities would be significantly harmed”, but council bosses say no final decision has been made.”
Lincolnshire – Currently reading – Lincolnshire Council. “Let the Lincolnshire Libraries team help you to find your next favourite read from the thousands of books and e-books they have available for you to borrow for free …”
Merton – The continued importance of libraries in our community – This is Local London. “There are only seven libraries in all of Merton, leaving only one library for every 31,000 people. This is concerning, not least because the current budgeting for libraries means they would never be able to accommodate this many people, but also because it demonstrates a decline in public interest in libraries. Whilst it may be tempting to assume that this is due to more people wanting to buy and own the physical books they read, as well as being able to read them online, this is not necessarily true – it is also a symptom of a declining interest in reading in general in our local community.”
Newcastle – Babies to receive free books in Dolly Parton pilot project – Newcastle Council. “While the pilot project is currently only offering books to children born from May 2025 to April 2026, families are being reminded that they already have access to a huge range of stories and services – for free – through their local libraries.”
Norfolk – New Young Gardeners Club launched by Sheringham Library – North Norfolk News. “The Little Shoots launch event took place on April 22. The event was a success with children helping to prepare planters and then digging to set the plants. They then filled their own pots with seeds to grow at home. Sunflower seeds donated by Recovery College were planted under the library windows to finish the event.”
North East Lincolnshire – Don’t miss our pop-up events to give your views on library and archive review – North East Lincolnshire Council. “people are now being asked for their views on options, all at an early stage, to develop the library service alongside other services in Grimsby and Cleethorpes to include community spaces where all ages feel welcome.” … “Meanwhile in Waltham, the option of a community library model is being explored.”
Northern Ireland – Over £750,000 secured to redevelop Enniskillen Library – Impartial Reporter. “750,000 in funding has been secured to redevelop Enniskillen Library. The fundraising amount was today announced by Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons, and will see a state of the art library building erected in Enniskillen.”
Nottingham – Councillor calls on own ruling group to open problem-plagued library by July – Notts TV. Ongoing delays at Sherwood Library. “Cllr Adele Williams (Lab), who represents the Sherwood ward, has now set up a petition calling on the ruling Labour Group to commit to a concrete opening date. She said the petition would be used to advocate for getting the library open by July 15. The petition will be presented to the council’s leadership at Full Council on Monday, May 12.”
Work ‘ground to a halt’ on Nottingham library that was supposed to open last year – Nottingham Post. “Work on the new Sherwood Library is said to have “ground to a halt” as Nottingham City Council appears unable to commit to its last promised opening date. The library was originally set to open in the summer of 2024, but there have been repeated delays and a row between the city council and developer.”
Slough – Slough council: man makes impassioned plea for libraries – Slough Observer. “The closure of Langley and Cippenham libraries are among the options for the future of Slough’s library service being considered by council leaders. Burnham resident Chandra Kondepudi presented councillors with a petition against the plans signed by 2,028 people – telling them libraries ‘should never be up for negotiation’. Mr Kondepudi said: “A library is not just a building – it is where a mother takes her child to fall in love with books, it is where a teenager studies in silence because home might be noisy.”
Somerset – Somerset Libraries Winter Coat Exchange: A heartwarming success – Somerset Council. “This year, the Somerset Council initiative saw an incredible 2,470 coats for both adults and children donated and 2,086 coats taken by people in need – more than double the figure received last year.”
Libraries go green again for May – Staffordshire Council. “Following the success of last year’s Green Libraries Month, this year promises even more exciting events, talks, arts and crafts workshops running right across the county.”
Warrington – Campaigners say hundreds attended library closure consultation as children object – Warrington Guardian. Westbrook Library to be closed. “The news was met with anger by Westbrook residents, who have rallied to support the library during a consultation period and fight back against its planned closure. This has included hundreds of residents attending drop-in consultation sessions, as well as children from nearby schools protesting.”
Wirral – Six more libraries could close as Wirral Council consider further cuts – Wirral Globe. “The local authority is planning to only operate eight libraries going forward under plans that have been revealed on May 2. This is after cuts to the council service of £250,000 were approved unanimously earlier this year.” … “The local authority closed nine libraries as part of budget cuts in 2022. Only two of these have since reopened as public-facing libraries in Wallasey Village and Pensby.”
Based on fifteen years of watching the minister vaguely to do with public libraries fulfil their brief, I would like to offer the below list to the new temporary incumbent, Fiona Twycross, as to my expectations. For added fun and excitement to any reader of this other than Fiona (hi Fi!), please feel free to use this to help make your own DCMS Bingo sheet and see how many of these you can tick off in the brief time that she will be in office:
Fiona will make an announcement a,bout how much she personally, and the government generally supports libraries, probably in video form, to the Libraries Connected annual conference.
When answering questions in the Lords about closures of libraries, the baroness will:
point out that it it is a local matter and that such cuts are nothing to do with central government
say that the government is being generous in providing the Libraries Improvement Fund and probably list one or two examples.
She may also mention “record” amounts being given to local government, while at the same time not mentioning that this is either because of the rise in social care or because of inflation.
Bonus points if she says how lovely she found the last library she visited so good, despite the pervasive smell of new paint.
Extra bonus “this government is the same as the last government” points if she welcomes the contribution of volunteers who are now doing the job of the unaccountably now absent paid staff that once worked there.
The baroness will make one, possibly two, visits to a public library and be photographed in them. At least one of them will have benefited from the Libraries Improvement Fund or in her own constituency.
The baroness will not intervene about the high cost or the unavailability of eBooks to the public library sector.
If asked, she will say that the fact that a baroness from House of Lords has been given the job rather than one of the current 403 Labour MPs has nothing to do with the low importance given to the sector by government.
The baroness will not accept the need to intervene in any council cutting libraries. She will accept whatever reduced provision is still made, and any consultation that has been done, as legal and still representing a comprehensive and efficient service.
In the unlikely event that new amounts of money or attention are given to the sector, this will mainly be for publicity purposes and will be mentioned repeatedly in parliamentary answers. On no account will it make an appreciable difference to the sector or solve anything structurally, on a national scale, or on a long-term basis.
She will still do as much in the 10 to 14 months she will do in the job as Ed Vaizey did in ten years.
Fiona, if you’re reading this, and want any more pointers about what else you will not be doing for public libraries in your short time in office, please let me know.
Arts, culture and creativity to have central role in VE and VJ Day commemorations – Wired-Gov. Arts Council England funding. “In partnership with Libraries Connected, Our Freedom: Then and Now will support 60 arts centres and libraries to create powerful, public moments of reflection and connection that honour the past while inspiring the future.”
Baroness Twycross – Gov.uk. Fiona Twycross becomes minster with public libraries in her portfolio, replacing Chris Bryant MP.
Greater Manchester Festival of Libraries 2025 – University of Manchester. “This year’s Festival of Libraries is headlined by Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock and Poet Laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce, who will be joined by a host of authors, poets, historians, performers and more.”
Help shape CILIP’s new strategy for 2026–2030 – CILIP. “CILIP is developing a new strategy for 2026–2030, and we’re inviting the voices of our members, partners, and wider community to shape a future where libraries and knowledge services thrive and lead in a fast-changing world. This is not just a strategy for CILIP — it’s a strategy for the future of our sector.”
Major NHS App expansion cuts waiting times – Gov.uk. “To assist elderly and more vulnerable patients, the NHS is now offering the public support in how to access online health services including the NHS App at 1,400 libraries across England. “
Ten great Records about Libraries– LibFocus. List of ten library-related songs. “Perhaps my favourite library song is Karen, the B-Side to Lee Remick, the first single from the Go-Betweens, released in 1978. This is a real paean to the librarian’s readers advisory skills.”
The time is now for allies to step forward and take a stand – CILIP. ” In the UK we might not have as serious a situation regarding the attempted censorship of books depicting LGBTQ+ people as they do in the USA, but as soon as we give in to censorship, we have failed as librarians.”
Turning the page: Keeping Scotland’s libraries open – Holyrood. Paisley Central Library has events space on roof, with the library helping to revitalise the town. “according to the 2023 Scottish Household Survey libraries are the most frequently visited cultural places in the country, with 16 per cent of adults visiting at least once a week, and more than a third visiting at least once a month” … “cross-party consensus on the value of Scotland’s libraries”. But cuts still happening.
Unlocking eBooks project – CILIP. “As part of the project, a review of evidence relating to academic, research and public libraries was conducted and produced by Inflect Partners Ltd, with an advisory group from across the sector and representation from the eBooks SOS Campaign.“
International news
Japan – Rethinking the role of Japan’s libraries – NHK. “Some communities around Japan are being forced to close some, or even all, of their libraries due to a decline in use or funding. But innovative solutions are giving libraries new roles in communities.”
USA – How Libraries Are Faring Under the Trump Administration Amid Detrimental Funding Cuts – Time. Long article on the effect of the cut in IMLS funding and push to censor. ““I think that messaging coming from the federal government is just going to embolden people to say, ‘See, we, we were right,’” he says. “We knew what you guys had on your shelves was bad because now the federal government is taking it out of service academies and removing it from military based libraries.””
Librarians are dangerous – Enthusiast. Propaganda piece for public librarians, with morale-boosting lists and graphics.
NYC librarian quits after endless parade of nude nutjobs, unhinged patrons, and a thug who threatened to ‘cut off her f–king toes’ – New York Post. Rise in mental illness, and gun ownership, meant it was not worth it any more. “Even the possibility of a macabre ending apparently didn’t disturb her supervisors, Coffey said. “If you are severely hurt at work, or even God forbid … it be fatal, your job will be posted by the end of the week. And that’s the reality of it,” a supervisor allegedly said during a December 2023 meeting, according to the lawsuit.”
City’s customer service centres to be moved to libraries – Argus. “the council’s customer service centres will move from their current locations in Bartholomew House and Hove Town Hall to new help desks at Jubilee Library and Hove Library.”
Bromley – Local librarian bringing Bromley’s history to life – Yourworld. “A librarian from south London is helping to mark the sixtieth anniversary of the London Borough of Bromley with a quirky presentation on five notable buildings in the area.”
Library reopens after ‘building issue’ resolved – BBC. “Cumberland Council announced over the weekend that Carlisle Library, in The Lanes shopping centre, would be closed until further notice. In an update on social media on Tuesday, the local authority said library staff and contractors had worked to “quickly” remedy the problem. The library is undergoing a £3.3m renovation.”
Doncaster – A new deal for Doncaster libraries? – Doncaster Free Press. “As Doncaster goes to the polls to elect a new mayor, one of Labour’s worst, destructive policies needs reversing yet none of the candidates mention it. Yes, I am talking about Doncaster library service. In 2008, Doncaster had twenty five libraries run with council library staff on hand to educate and boost literacy. They were well used. Fast forward to 2025 and we only have four staffed libraries for the entire city.”
East Riding – Hunt for hidden books to mark World Book Night – BBC. “The county’s library service will provide clues on social media to the locations. People who discover the books are being asked to post about it online. Last year more than 270 were found.”
Havering – Libraries Shut When Councillors Don’t Turn Up….. – Havering Daily. “Seven councillor absences shut our libraries for good – a motion to save South Hornchurch and Harold Wood libraries was defeated by the casting vote of the Mayor. Emergencies aside, councillors need to turn up, says Mark Whiley, Coordinator of Barking, Dagenham and Havering Green Party.”
Lambeth – Lambeth libraries to ballot from 30 April – Workers Liberty. “Libraries staff in Lambeth council, south London, are being asked if they are willing to strike to save jobs in the service. The indicative ballot came back with over 90% yes vote and turnout, and the union, Unison, is recommending a yes vote. Ballot notice will be issued on 23 April. The ballot will be open from 30 April to 21 May.”
“Libraries are more than just a place of knowledge—they are the lifeblood of local communities, bringing people of all backgrounds together. However, in Leicester, the Labour mayor is looking to slash library services in some of the most economically deprived areas of my great city, and I know the same will be happening in other constituencies up and down the country. Cutting our library services disproportionately affects the most vulnerable in our society, so will the Leader of the House schedule a debate in which we can praise our public libraries and the work of our wonderful librarians across the country, and urge the Government to give more support to local authorities to protect those crucial services?” Leicester – Shockat Adam MP, Independent. Government response is local councils were given money.
They Work For You
Manchester – Chorlton Library opens its doors after major renovation – Manchester Council. “The iconic building in the heart of Chorlton has been lovingly refurbished unveiling long-hidden architectural treasures including the reveal of the stunning dome in the library entrance not seen since the 1970s, flooding the library with natural light.”
Norfolk – Norfolk Council owed more than £100,000 in late fines – Fakenham and Wells Times. “A Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted by the BBC found that Norfolk County Council is owed a total of £114,000 in late book fines from library users. The data for overdue fees was made up to the year-end on February 4.”
North East Lincolnshire – Road to be closed while library books are removed – BBC. “A road will be closed intermittently over the next three weeks while a North East Lincolnshire library’s collection is removed following a water leak. New Street will be shut to allow the books to be removed from Grimsby Central Library. The 1960s building has been closed since 28 March after the leak was found and will remain shut for “some time” while asbestos is removed, North East Lincolnshire Council said.”
Nottingham – Defects delay new Nottingham library opening – Construction News. “A council and developer-builder are blaming each other for delays in fixing more than 60 defects at a new library building that was meant to have opened last summer.”
Sherwood Library opening delays continue – West Bridgford Wire. “The authority said on Thursday 24 April it is “disappointed” that despite previous assurances from the developer, it is still waiting on key dates for when critical jobs will be completed.”
Scottish Borders – Council to consider closing list of pools and libraries – STV News. “Libraries in Earlston, Eyemouth, Coldstream, and Hawick are recommended to be shut down or consolidated with other services.” … “Live Borders required £2.5m of additional council funding in the last financial year – over and above the annual £4.8m management fee – to keep services and facilities operating. “There is therefore a shared understanding, reflected in the independent consultant’s report, that the status quo in terms of services, facilities and funding is not viable”
Southend – ‘Let’s Get Ready for School’ bags to help children feel ‘confident’ starting school – Echo News. “The Southend Libraries are now offering “Let’s Get Ready for School” bags. These bags, introduced by A Better Start Southend, are designed to prepare children and their families for the transition to school life. The bags contain three books, activity sheets, fun games, and top tips to help children get ready to learn.”
Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries’ charity set to decide on future – EADT. Paywall. “The charity that has run Suffolk Libraries for the last 13 years is preparing to decide whether to wind itself up or carry on in a new form after the end of next month.”
So I’ve just had today a couple of Teams meetings with two very different people, one American and one a Londoner, asking in their various ways about the state of English public libraries. Leaving aside the sheer nerdiness of me enjoying doing such things on a Bank Holiday Monday, the thing that united both conversations was both asked how libraries are nationally organised and co-ordinated. When answering the question, I always include the phrase “herd of cats”. I also may say something linked to the quote attributed to Gandhi about when he was asked about what he thought of Western civilization, to which he allegedly answered “I think it would be a good idea”.
But, the thing is, however atomised the British service is, with a prosperous library service often not having communication or indeed knowledge of the bordering poverty-stricken library service adjoining it, it’s a lot better than it was. The internet has meant that librarians can easily find out what’s going on and organisations like Libraries Connected (the clues in the name), CILIP and even the British Library are helping to share knowledge and to ever so gently try to herd things along. And this is a good thing. I remember when the British Library did barely anything in this regard and there was no Libraries Connected. The library world now seems to be full of best practice webinars and knowledge-sharing, There’s even inter-service meetings and get-togethers. This may be a huddling response to the current situation, much like you see penguins do in cold weather but I think it’s more than that. It means that library services can learn from each other and benefit from economies of scale.
Do you know what’s stopping cats taking over the world? Lack of organisational skills. So it’s good to see we’re getting more linked and co-ordinated, albeit in fits and starts, in the public libraries sector. Meow.
J.K. Rowling (as Robert Galbraith) longlisted for the Dagger in the Library Award 2025 – Rowling Library. ” J.K. Rowling, writing under her pseudonym Robert Galbraith, has been longlisted for the prestigious Dagger in the Library Award from the Crime Writers’ Association for 2025. The longlist features ten accomplished crime writers who have built strong relationships with libraries and their readers”
Queering the kids’ section – Critic. “It would be near-heresy to suggest that libraries, these cosy spaces, those agents of positive change, are complicit in harming the young. This may explain why the announcement of this year’s Carnegie Medals shortlist announced has slipped — so far — under the radar.” … “This could explain why Birmingham Libraries has ignored guidance that Homebody is for 14+ readers, and put the book in its junior section. Other authorities — Derby and East Cheshire — have done the same” … “Libraries present themselves as fit for purpose. We are led to believe the work they do is suitable and appropriate. Dig deeper though, and it’s clear how heavily they have invested in a toxic ideology.”
The right-wing threat on censorship is real – Funding the future. “Right now, the moves will be limited. But expect something the left has used to good effect to become a key feature of congressional campaigns, and that is clicktivism. You can just see there being campaigns created to demand that material of the above sort be removed from libraries and schools. It would be all too easy to do. And it worries me, for precisely that reason.”
Trump-style book censorship is spreading – just ask British librarians – Guardian. “For all its talk of free speech, the Trump administration seems remarkably comfortable with censorship.” … “when a Catholic school in Croydon invited Simon James Green, a prominent gay children’s author, to give a talk. The US anti-LGBT website Catholic Truth ran a campaign encouraging readers to contact the school and protest against the event” … “One survey conducted later that year found 26% of librarians had “occasionally” been asked to censor materials” … “Most of the requests to remove books came from parents, and almost all of these requests related to books that explored LGBT+ themes. ” … “Over the last three years, drag queen story events – a popular format involving considerable amounts of glitter and storytelling aimed at children – have been targeted by protests organised by Turning Point UK, a British offshoot of the far-right US political organisation, and by the white nationalist group Patriotic Alternative.”
UK libraries facing growing calls to remove LGBT+ books – Independent. “LGBT+ charity Stonewall has raised concerns after new research seen by The Independent revealed that the vast majority of book removal requests in UK school libraries have been focused on LGBT+ content.”
Palestine – “The mass destruction of libraries in Gaza has been described as a direct attack on the future of the Palestinian people and their identity. Places which were once quiet spaces for learning have been destroyed across the Strip”
Canada / USA – Dismay as cross-border library caught in US-Canada feud: ‘We just want to stay open’ – Guardian. “Under the new rules which go into effect in October, Canadians will need to go through a formal border crossing before entering the library. The news, met with disbelief from patrons and staff, followed a closely watched visit by the US secretary of homeland security, Kristi Noem, in March. Touring the library, Noem said “USA number one!” and then hopped over the black tape separating the two countries and said “51st state” when she landed in Canada. She repeated the joke – echoing Donald Trump’s recent fixation on annexing Canada – three times.”
Europe – Europe Challenge. “The Europe Challenge is an annual programme that brings together teams from libraries and communities across Europe to address today’s most pressing social, digital, and climate challenges by developing, sharing and implementing creative solutions with support from the European Cultural Foundation and its partners.”
India – No sharp shushes or ‘finger on the lips’, community libraries reimagine reading spaces – Hindustan Times. “Turning the idea of a library on its head while adhering to the core mantra of learning as fun, this one in south Delhi’s Khirki Extension is among the more than 230 across India. Connected to the Free Libraries Network , they have reimagined libraries as community spaces that encourage engagement between children through activities, stories, drama, sports, conversations, and a lot of reading.”
Community Libraries Are Spreading Across Rural India – Reasons to be cheerful. “Uttar Pradesh alone has merely 200 public libraries, but almost 98,000 villages at last count. “. Mobile and little libraries (one or two rooms) are expanding.
USA – Wildflower seeds are available at public libraries – – Del Norte Prospector. ” Generation Wild has been working to get indoor kids outside with wildflowers by distributing more than 120,000 free seed packets across the state.”
Banned Together – IMDB. Movie: “Visionary teenagers, public protests, threats, criminal charges, and drama-filled school board meetings: this is the explosive world of “Banned Together”, the first feature documentary about fighting book bans and censorship in the U.S”
Blackburn With Darwen – Bright new Spring display at Blackburn Central Library – Lancashire Telegraph. “As part of a wider project celebrating the joy of reading, the library’s windows have been transformed into a lively “Spring into Reading” display—an eye-catching celebration of books, learning, and the season’s renewal. The striking artwork is the result of a marketing and training initiative led by Cath Ford, who has worked closely with library staff through a series of workshops.” … “The project is part of Rekindle, a national Arts in Libraries programme designed to place libraries at the heart of cultural experiences for rural, peri-urban, and underserved communities.”
Bradford – Just one third of Bradford library users are men – review – Telegraph and Argus. “Encouraging more men to use Bradford’s libraries and creating a City of Culture legacy are among the goals of the district’s library services over the next five years” … “A recent review of the library service found that despite a decrease in staffing levels and funding, the service has seen a big rise in the number of events held in libraries in the past five years.” … “Since April, the service has faced further cuts – last year, Bradford Council approved £175,000 cuts and reduced opening hours.” … “More than £800,000 has been invested in the library service in the five-year period, with 10 out of the 12 Council-run libraries being refurbished.” ACE- funded project to attract more males.
Bromley – Bromley Central Library to host first World Book Night – News Shopper. “The event will include the giveaway of 150 ‘quick reads’, creative writing workshops, and a Q&A session with local authors. There will also be a painting taster session, a talk on the history of Bromley, and a start-up marketplace showcasing local entrepreneurs.”
Coventry – Three libraries to be relocated despite concerns – BBC. “Coventry City Council has approved plans to move the services in Bell Green, Coundon and Holbrooks at a meeting on Wednesday. Hundreds of residents had signed petitions and objected to the proposals following fears of reductions to footfall, staff and books. The cabinet member for finance, councillor Richard Brown, said the relocation would save £625,000 per year.”
Cumberland – Library shut suddenly amid serious building issue – BBC. “Cumberland Council said Carlisle Library, in The Lanes shopping centre, would be closed until further notice. Posting on social media, the local authority said it hoped to issue an update after the Easter Bank Holiday weekend. The library is currently undergoing a £3.3m renovation.”
Devon – Poem written by Robin Ince, read by library users
Devon – Devon’s libraries quietly reinvent themselves with seed swaps and fridges – Devon Live. “Parents with newborns can weigh their babies in a calm, welcoming setting – without the need to book in at a GP surgery. They can also stick around for Bounce & Rhyme , a free singing session designed to entertain little ones and offer a chance for new parents to socialise.” … ” … “Several sites now run Repair Cafés , where volunteers help fix everything from toasters to trousers, and Seed Swaps are also growing in popularity. These allow people to bring along excess fruit, vegetable, flower or herb seeds and take home something new to plant – helping local wildlife in the process. Food waste is tackled head-on through Community Fridges , available at a number of branches, which offer free surplus items donated by supermarkets. Alongside these are school uniform and fancy dress swaps, set up to ease financial pressures on parents – particularly around Halloween and World Book Day. Libraries in Honiton and Tavistock have partnered with Active Devon to offer free cycle training sessions.”
New spring and summer arts events at Barnstaple Library take ‘Pride of Place’ – North Devon Gazette. “This is now the third time Libraries Unlimited – which runs the libraries in Devon and Torbay – has hosted the Pride of Place themed season at locations across the county. In Barnstaple it will offer the North Devon community a wide ranges of events and activities from tango lessons to nature journalling and creating origami blossoms from old books, as well as photography exhibitions and live theatre performances.”
Inverclyde – Drop in at Port Glasgow Library to share VE Day stories – Greenock Telegraph. “Residents can bring in photographs, medals, and other mementos to be digitised by library staff. The council is particularly interested in stories about relatives who served in the war and how families celebrated VE Day.”
Ryde Library set to re-open children’s section following renovation – Island Echo. “The Isle of Wight Library service secured a £150,000 grant from Arts Council England’s Libraries Improvement Fund in 2023, which was shared with Cowes Library to improve facilities and accessibility at both locations. Renovations at Ryde Library began at the end of February, and included the installation of a new accessible toilet for library user groups and a complete refurbishment of the children’s library.The Friends of Ryde Library generously funded new furniture and shelving, which have now been delivered and installed.”
Leicester – Campaign launched to save Leicester libraries from closure threat– Leicester Mercury. “A bid to save Leicester libraries and community centres from possible closure and cuts has been launched by opposition councillors. The Leicester Conservative group has branded the proposed cuts “an absolute disgrace”, adding that the service was a “lifeline” for local communities.”
Norfolk – Norfolk Council owed more than £100,000 in late fines – North Norfolk News. “Late fines had been reintroduced for books across Norfolk’s libraries last year after they had been suspended during Covid. The data revealed that the council had collected more than £70,000 since late fines were reintroduced.”
North East Lincolnshire – Library services review enters its next phase – BBC. “It follows a survey last year that asked people how they used library and archive services, and what they wanted to see in future. The consultation covers four of the five libraries in the borough, in Grimsby, Cleethorpes and Waltham.” … “The council said the review was launched because there had been a decline in library visits since the pandemic of more than 40%. It added that there were economic and social advantages of bringing services together under one roof.”
Pembrokeshire – Funding support agreed for Neyland Library – Pembrokeshire Council. “Neyland Town Council has agreed to a five-year funding agreement to support the continued professional operation of the library, with opening hours unchanged. Neyland Library was opened in June 2021 and has 13 hours a week of staffed opening, but customers can use unstaffed access anytime from 6am to 10pm, seven days a week, all year round.”
Slough – Slough libraries: petition to be debated by councillors – Slough and South Bucks Observer. “A petition signed by more than 2,000 people against the possible closure of Langley and Cippenham libraries is set to be debated by councillors next week.” Opening hours and usage had been cut in the two libraries since 2019.
Suffolk Libraries’ charity set to decide on future – Ipswich Star. Paywall. “The charity that has run Suffolk Libraries for the last 13 years is preparing to decide whether to wind itself up or carry on in a new form after the end of next month.”
Tameside – Festival of Libraries Returns for 2025 – Tameside Council. “Greater Manchester Festival of Libraries is returning for 2025 and as always Tameside Council will be playing its part to the full. This vibrant celebration of libraries and their vital role in communities across the city region takes place from Wednesday 4 to Sunday 8 June. Tameside has three great events lined up including the highly popular Look for a Book activity during the summer half-term break (23 May to 1 June)”
Warrington – ‘Nothing off table’ as pupils voice opposition to Westbrook Library closure plan – Warrington Guardian. “The pupil asked: “Outside of school, where will the children of Westbrook be able to walk to locally with their family and friends to support their mental health and wellbeing, connect with others, read books, learn, develop a love of reading, relax, attend activities, complete their homework and choose books that they can take home – all for free – if Westbrook Library closes?” Responding to the full question, Cllr Higgins said: “I would normally then say thank you for the question but I couldn’t see a question within this statement.””
West Sussex – Big cheer for our library volunteers – West Sussex Council. “The service currently has 334 active volunteers across 13 different roles in our 36 libraries and out in the community, and in the last year alone collectively gave around 16,500 hours of their time to help others.”
When I was growing up, back in the 1970s and 80s, the definition of a public library was a simple thing. It was a quiet building with books in, which meant they were made of paper, they could be taken out for free and there were paid library staff. I think many people would say that role has now radically changed. The book room now hosts a wide variety of, often quite loud, weekly groups and probably has at least some link to other council services. The “paid” library staff bit has gone in over 600 libraries. An Ealing councillor says below (although she has an agenda due to cuts there), the role of libraries has changed and needs to change. Another, more worrying, post is from a teenager, also this week, points out that libraries are seen as old fashioned and there’s no need to go into them as everything is on the internet. Even Libraries Connected don’t lead with any mention of books in a recent submission to government but rather focus on them being “free, safe, universal spaces, often in prominent locations, with strong links to local civic and voluntary organisations”.
There is much truth in these comments. I like the libraries I go into to be buzzing with activity. Those libraries I walk into, thankfully not in my council, which are “just” books are often underfunded and sometimes, let’s be frank, have the stench of death around them. But let’s not get carried away. The main reason people go into libraries is the books. The death of the book has been prophesised, even announced, several times since Public Libraries News starts but it’s still very much present. So, the challenge for public libraries is to do both. To be both a provider of good quality book stock and be a, let’s face it, council/community centre, at the same time. And that’s difficult because those roles can be conflicting, as anyone who has tried to study while a children’s session is going on can well attest. It’s even more difficult when the budget means it’s hard to adjust. But one may as well howl at the moon and wish for free chocolate. The reality is that technology and society has changed since I was a child watching with wonder as library assistants flicked over serried ranks of book tickets. And we need to change with it.
The good news is that this is challenging to old fogeys like me but it’s also fun. Planning, bidding and building new services is exciting and really rewarding when they work. And there’s no alternative. So, yes, libraries are now more than books, and that’s good, but they’re never without the books.
Co-Chair of CILIP’s Public and Mobile Libraries Group – CILIP. Vacancy. “In July 2024, PMLG launched as an online community – the first of its kind at CILIP. Since then, we have had over one hundred people sign up and CILIP believe that the online group will benefit from having dedicated leaders and champions to guide PMLG members and expand our network.”
Help shape CILIP’s new strategy for 2026–2030 – CILIP. “CILIP is developing a new strategy for 2026–2030, and we’re inviting the voices of our members, partners, and wider community to shape a future where libraries and knowledge services thrive and lead in a fast-changing world.”
Libraries Connected launches second round of Peer Mentoring Scheme – Libraries Connected. “This year the scheme is open to Heads of Service and Emerging Leaders who may consider applying for a Head of Service role within the next 12 months or have current responsibility for a major project or large-scale change “
Libraries Connected submits evidence to Commission on Community and Cohesion – Libraries Connected. “we believe that public libraries are and should remain central to efforts at community cohesion. Libraries have a unique place in our communities. They are free, safe, universal spaces, often in prominent locations, with strong links to local civic and voluntary organisations. As one of the few public spaces left that are universal, open to all and free, they have particular potential to bring local people together and make connections.”
‘Section 28 made me feel alone growing up, we need to fight returning censorship’ – Yahoo Entertainment. Simon James Green on talking in schools. “With the way the world is at the moment we’re back again to a place where some people are, sadly, trying to ban LGBT books from school libraries. They’re saying there’s no place for them, they shouldn’t be in there, and making up all sorts of lies basically about the content of the books to justify banning them. So we’re back in the place where Section 28 is almost back in force in some places in the world. I think it’s really important to give young people a warning about that, first of all, but also the tools they need to fight and to push back against that sort of censorship.”
Why Don’t Young People Use Libraries Anymore? – Headliners. ” for many young people today, they’re more of an afterthought than a must-visit spot. With phones, social media, and easy access to information online, the idea of spending time in a library seems outdated.” … “Many young people feel that libraries haven’t kept up with the times. They’re designed for quiet reading, but in a world where we’re used to working in coffee shops, chatting in group study sessions, and having everything at our fingertips, the traditional library experience just doesn’t cut it anymore.” … “Even though most young people don’t go to libraries, that doesn’t mean we don’t want them to exist. In fact, when asked, loads of us had ideas on how to make them better.”
“Right now, libraries are fading into the background. They’re still there, but most young people aren’t using them. If they don’t evolve, they risk becoming completely irrelevant. But if they adapt, if they become places where people want to be, rather than places they have to go, then maybe libraries can make a comeback. Until then, most of us will stick to our phones.”
Canada – Peterborough Library Workers Ask: “What Is a Library Without Librarians?”– Business Wire. “Following a city council demand for $120,000 in budget cuts, the Peterborough Public Library management has informed workers they will be laying off three of the library’s four full-time unionized librarians.”. Professional librarians being replaced with “one Outreach Coordinator and a less qualified programming position”
Germany – Successful “Night of the Libraries” at the public library – Hof. “With over 150 enthusiastic visitors, the first “Night of the Libraries” in the Hof public library was a complete success. Under the nationwide motto “Knowledge.Share.Discover.” the library opened its doors late into the night. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Illumat, a very special wish-granting machine powered by human intelligence. Children in particular were blown away: from Hello Kitty and Easter bunnies to a flying guinea pig, the most imaginative wishes were lovingly put on paper. But adults didn’t miss out either: even world peace was delivered, albeit initially only on paper.”
India – We get the libraries we deserve – Navhind Times. History of Goan libraries. “We need to remember the contribution of all those small institutions that have helped reading across Goa, modest and sometimes struggling to stay afloat. We definitely need to have more of those. To get those, citizens need to ask, remind, cajole and demand.”
Sweden – The importance of libraries – Umea University. “Sweden, like every country, has certain groups represented in libraries more than others, so this conversation is always necessary, in every nation, region, or community.” … “Children who visit libraries, and who may have special needs, or are at risk, find safety and are seen by librarians. And of course, you can find yourself amongst the community that books can create.”
USA – Being a librarian was already hard. Then came the Trump administration – Guardian. ““You don’t get paid enough to meet your basic needs. Your autonomy at work is consistently under threat. People who think that they know better how to do your job are trying to get the power to push you out of your position”
National Library Week 2025 lands amid book bans, budget cuts, job losses– Orange County Register. ““We’re celebrating National Library Week – and it’s a crazy time to be celebrating anything,” says Hohl. “But I want to make sure that everyone understands that the role of the library is that we’re here for everyone. We’re free for everyone. It’s a safe space, it’s a healthy environment.”
Ealing – Libraries beyond books – BookSeller. Ealing councillor writes guest post. “The old adage about libraries being hushed, book-filled sanctuaries is long dead. As everyone in the library sector can attest, libraries have been evolving. Yet, with the rise of new technologies and the fluctuations in library attendance and book loans, coupled with a squeeze on council budgets, libraries have faced the brunt of local government cuts. It doesn’t have to be this way. At Ealing Council, we understand that libraries are vital to our local communities, but to thrive they must change. That is why we have invested nearly £1m, with support from UK Shared Prosperity funding, to transform our libraries in Northolt, Acton and Southall to become creative, cultural community hubs.”
Essex – Council reorganisation in Essex could close down local libraries – Essex Live. “Plans to overhaul local government in Essex by replacing the county’s existing two-tier council system with unitary authorities has sparked concerns from campaign group Save Our Libraries Essex (SOLE) that the service could be seen as an easy target for the new councils to save money.” … “The proposal involves scrapping Essex County Council, the 12 district and borough councils, and the Southend and Thurrock councils and consolidating their responsibilities under regional super authorities.”
Gateshead – Birtley Library set to reopen after refurbishment – Gateshead Council. “As part of the library’s refresh, the space has new lighting and decoration. Shelving and furniture has also been upgraded to create improved space for community activities and book borrowing. A new children’s area also features designs by local illustrator and artist Gemma Kooman … When the venue reopens, it will also be home to an Active Travel Centre operated in partnership with Sustrans”. Paid for by UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
Greenwich – Greenwich Libraries amnesty asks readers to ‘start a new chapter’ and return overdue books by May 31st with no fines – London Daily News. “Greenwich is a borough of avid readers – our library service is one of the most popular in the country – issuing up to 1,360,000 items each year. “Its success depends on our book stock being freely circulated so the maximum number of library members have the opportunity to read them. “Our amnesty invites those who have unreturned books to ‘start a new chapter’ and bring them back in – without the fear of fines.”
Inverclyde – Nursery kids agree top up tap at Kilmacolm Library a ‘novel’ idea – Inverclyde Council. “Children from Kilmacolm Nursery in Inverclyde recently quenched their thirst for learning at a Scottish Water Top Up Tap located just outside the village’s library. At an event held last week to celebrate the tap, the eager learners were told about the importance of hydration and topping up from the tap with a refillable water bottle.”
Leeds – Using data to understand and improve book borrowing for children in Leeds – Nesta. “we analysed library data to explore geographic and demographic differences in children’s book borrowing and its correlation with NHS speech and language service referrals” … “identified a small handful of areas in Leeds that had much lower borrowing rates of children’s books compared to the rest of the city. Several of these areas were also underserved by their current library provision”
Leicester – ‘Libraries are more important than ever’ say readers amid proposed £2 million cuts– Leicester Mercury. “Leicester residents have been left wondering “where does all the money go?” after proposals to cut libraries and community centre services emerged. Earlier this week, Leicester City Council unveiled plans to cut more than £2 million in spending on the services.” … “Beanie1057 wanted to know what had happened to the promise of ‘warm spaces’ when energy bills increased. They said: “So what happens to the ‘warm spaces’ created when heating bills doubled?”… “Reader redcat2 said: “At a time when parents will be struggling more with household budgets, libraries are more important than ever. They are one of the few places parents can still take a child that is both entertaining and educational and free”
Rotherham – Wath library to temporarily relocate as work on new building forges ahead – Rotherham Council. “a new two-storey building will be built on the site of the existing library, as part of a £9.9m community and commercial development being delivered by the Council in the local area.” New Wath Library will open in 2027. “not only will the new library in Wath be pleasing on the eye, but it will also provide people with somewhere to enjoy events and all the cultural benefits that come with a comfortable, well-equipped, modern library.”
Slough – Essential to the community’: Slough fights back against library closures – Hyphen. “Libraries are essential to the community. Langley library is within walking distance of eight schools, which means young people often come here to hang out with friends after school. It’s more than just a place to get books — it’s a social space”
Somerset – Library closing to allow for tech upgrade roll out – BBC. “Somerset Council confirmed that Taunton Library, on Paul Street, will shut on Wednesday as work is undertaken to “strengthen security” and “improve Wi-Fi capabilities”.” Reopen on Friday.
Suffolk – Crime fiction festival returns with ‘all-star line-up’ – East Anglian Daily Times. “Skulduggery in Stowmarket is set to return to Stowmarket Library for the seventh year on April 26. The annual event celebrates thriller writers, featuring six best-selling and award-winning authors.”
Warrington – School pupils take part in protest to save library – BBC. Westbrook Library. “Members of the St Philip’s Westbrook Primary School council walked to Westbrook Library with staff – as well as local councillors – on their break as part of a campaign to keep it open.”
Community celebrates transformation of Culcheth Library gardens – Warrington Council. “The library building was reopened in November 2023, following a £400,000 refurbishment. Since then, the Friends of Culcheth Library, with support from the community, have led a number of projects and fundraising events to improve the library’s outdoor space. This collective effort has culminated in a stunning garden makeover, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for all.”
Warwickshire – Check out Warwickshire libraries with the county’s Child Friendly Bear – Warwickshire Council. Bear promotes children’s services in the council. “The Bear’s first stop is Warwickshire Libraries, a network of community and council-managed venues across the county. Each library features creative spaces where children and young people can learn, play and discover something new. “
Wirral – Reader Letter: ‘Out of touch over Wirral library closure plans’ – Wirral Globe. “proposed closures of libraries in deprived and crime ridden areas of Wirral proves, beyond doubt, that the council is totally out of touch with the desperate needs of unprivileged children and people of Wirral who are again being abandoned, while Wirral Council squandered millions of pounds on failed projects.”
Update on council plans for Wirral libraries closure – Wirral Globe. Originally, “the council’s budget proposals in January included keeping six libraries including the four central libraries in Wallasey, Birkenhead, Bebington, and West Kirby as well as Moreton and Heswall, with the rest to close or move into community hands.”. However, ” these plans have now changed and fewer libraries may close as a result.” … “Later this year, the council will have to go public on its plans and make sure it properly engages with the public throughout the process. As part of this, the local authority will set up a library committee with councillors from all four political parties promising to meaningfully ask people for their opinions.”
There was a time when it looked like all public libraries would go fines-free sooner or later. Now, that seems a bit optimistic. It’s sad to see that Stoke on Trent are reactivating fines for the first time since Covid. This appears to be fundamentally an income-generating move. Which is, sadly, fair enough, considering the cuts that many library services are going through. In other austerity news, Leicester have announced that they’re closing, or passing to volunteers, six libraries while consolidating funding in their remaining ones, including introducing staff-less hours. And Bradford have reduced their opening hours and Havering are closing some of its libraries. Yay though for Blackburn With Darwen which is upgrading a library/theatre and also those library services which are showing off their Libraries Improvement Fund works from the last round. And of course there’s the next LIF round coming.
Perhaps, though, there needs to be another less politically-loaded word being used other than “austerity” in that last paragraph but it’s a challenge. The political orthodoxy since at least 2010, Labour and Conservative, is that spending needs reducing in order to reduce debt. This is opposed to the view that one can spend one’s way out of recession, ideally by investment, as championed by Keynes and Roosevelt, with a side-order of World War Two rearmament. The obvious flaw, though, to the current ideology is that it’s blatantly not worked for 15 years and has included some of the lowest earnings increases since the Napoleonic Wars combined with precious little debt repayment. At least, when one invests, one gets wealthier front-line workers and better services out of that. The current alternative is neither that nor, evidently, repayment. Doesn’t seem all that sensible or adult to me. So I’ll stick with “austerity”. As` also the Government, sadly, appears to be doing.
There has to be another word for what’s happening in the USA though. Cutting funding to public libraries, is in the right playbook but encouraging censorship is something else. And there’s even concerns expressed in Canada – apart from the ones about them being invaded by the USA (last seen in the worst-case Fallout game timeline) – that the tariffs will increase costs of books and other library goods/services. Yes, definitely another word is needed there.
How Reading Sparks is Inspiring Young Readers – Reading Agency. “a fun programme that mixes science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) with creativity and reading. ” … “These are special projects that shine a light on cool areas of STEM. Our first spotlight was robotics and coding, using Lego – specifically, something called Lego Spike Prime.”. A look at the pilot ptojects.
I have had direct positive experience of the Circus Academy Leek (hence this free advert for them), which provides circus skills workshops for children. Circus activities include plate spinning, scarf juggling, hula-hopping and stilt walking as well as many other fun activities. Full public liability insurance and an enhanced DBS can be provided. Please get in touch with Liz by email for more details: thecircusacademyleek@gmail.com (Ed.)
The importance of public libraries for older adults: Supporting wellbeing later in life – CILIPS. “as a cognitively and emotionally enriching activity, books offer a vast array of choice for older adults to pursue their personal interests and preferences. Yet for these benefits of reading to be realised, older adults need to have access to quality books to support and enrich later life – highlighting the essential role of public libraries.”
Australia – ALIA National Simultaneous Storytime 2025 – Australia Library and Information Association. “Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country. Now in its 25th successful year …”
Building and Sustaining Homeschooling Centers at Three U.S. Public Libraries – Information Today. “public libraries are increasingly a place where homeschooling families spend time and seek resources to aid in the education of their children. In this article, three public libraries (one located in New York and two in California) will share information regarding the programs, resources, and policies they have developed to serve the growing needs of this community.”
Trump’s attack on libraries was predictable. Its consequences could be devastating – Guardian. “To understand why this matters so deeply, it’s crucial to recognize what IMLS actually does. Established in 1996, it is the primary federal agency providing crucial financial support to libraries and museums nationwide. It invests hundreds of millions of dollars annually to help institutions develop literacy programs, workforce training, digital resources, cultural preservation and civic engagement initiatives. Cutting this funding is more than just budget trimming. It means dismantling essential community infrastructure.”
Argyll and Bute – Frustration at closure of island’s only library – BBC. “Live Argyll, which runs community and leisure services on behalf of Argyll and Bute Council, shut the site in November after the sole librarian retired. The charity has published a business plan for the next two years, but Tiree’s library was not included on the list of its facilities.”
Barnsley – Barnsley Libraries – Impact of The Libraries Improvement Fund – DCMS. “The Libraries Improvement Fund (LIF) will open for expressions of interest on Tuesday 6 May 2025 … To mark the publication of the guidance for Round 4, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the completed projects from earlier rounds starting with Barnsley Libraries who were able to upgrade their libraries with the support of LIF funding.”
Blackburn With Darwen – Library Theatre with fascinating history set for major investment under £100m scheme – Lancashire Post. “A proposed double-storey extension – better linking the library and theatre, opening up the spaces for wider community uses … Improvements to the historic library that would focus on repairing and retaining the character and original features while helping to create more space … increased sustainability”.
Bradford – Bradford libraries have reduced their hours from this week – Telegraph and Argus. “Libraries are reducing opening hours by an average of six hours per week, based on the preference of the public following consultation to focus reduced hours on Saturday and during the week rather than at lunchtimes.”
Library use rises as cuts to opening hours begin – BBC. “Each of the council’s 10 libraries has had its opening hours reduced by six hours a week, under changes introduced at the start of April. Yet a spokesperson for the library service said the buildings had been “diversifying” to serve modern community needs and the result was that visitor numbers had increased over the past few years. Christine May, the council’s head of libraries, said the sites were “no longer just places to borrow books”.”
Bridgend – Bridgend’s Library Service Named Best In Wales – Awen Libraries. “Awen Libraries was selected for the success of its first-ever 21 Book Challenge, which has encouraged adults to explore new book titles and authors, discover a variety of new genres and expand their reading horizons.” … “While overall visitor numbers rose by more than 15% between 2022 and 2024, the number of books borrowed also increased by 45% in the same period.”
Camden – Bafta-winning actor Lee Montague dies aged 97 – BBC. “Keats Community Library said they were “deeply sad” to announce Montague’s death, describing him as a “highly respected actor” who was also “vital to our success”.”
Cheshire East – Nantwich Library to stage benefits “support” drop-ins – Nantwich News. “Nantwich Library is to host a number of benefits and financial support drop-in sessions. They are aimed at helping people find out what you are entitled to as families across the borough face rising bills.”
Braunton Library named best in the South West for community and creativity – Devon Live. “From Lego clubs to floral bookmarks Braunton Library’s bold ideas and deep roots in nature just won it the title of regional library of the year” … “t triumphed over three other regional finalists—two of which, Bideford and Exeter, are also based in Devon and run by the charity Libraries Unlimited, which oversees the public libraries in Devon and Torbay.” … “The standout feature that secured Braunton’s regional win was its involvement in The Gatherers —a project celebrating the natural world and its role in mental health and community wellbeing. Residents were encouraged to collect flowers from gardens, allotments and hedgerows, with participants later pressing the blooms into bookmarks using old library books.”
Ealing – Join the celebrations at new-look libraries – Ealing Council. “DJ workshops, dancing, live music and art activities will all be on offer – free of charge – to celebrate the reopening of 2 local libraries and the Dominion Centre after a revamp. Acton and Northolt libraries, along with the Southall Dominion Centre closed at the end of last year to undergo a £900,000 transformation.”
Edinburgh – New temporary library proposed at Davidson’s Mains Primary School – Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. “A new temporary library is being proposed at Davidson’s Mains Primary School, providing Blackhall Library’s key services while plans are developed for a long-term replacement for the previous building at Hillhouse Road. Blackhall Library has been closed since September 2023, following the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RACC).”
Guernsey – ‘Major transformation’ for library’s study area – BBC. “The study facilities at the Guille-Allès Library in St Peter Port are undergoing a “major transformation”. A library spokesperson said a refurbishment of the Hayward Room had been carried out with the aim of making it brighter and more welcoming for students, remote workers and lifelong learners. The upgrade include new carpet, improved lighting and a new ceiling on the lower level.”
Havering – Potential closure of the Gidea Park Library – Hansard. Petition debated: “The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urges the Government to ensure that the Gidea Park library in the parliamentary constituency of Romford is not closed, but rather protected and enhanced as a centre of culture, learning, and local service provision for the people of Gidea Park.”. DCMS reply is that if public wish to report it as breach of statutory duty then they can do so.
Havering library closures: Librarian fears for community’s future – Romford Recorder. “Corinna Guthrie, a librarian for Essex Libraries, said she is “deeply saddened” by the closure of Gidea Park, South Hornchurch and Harold Wood libraries, which she worries will have an impact on different community groups in the borough. The libraries shut for good on March 31 after Havering Council recommended their closure at a cabinet meeting in February.” … “All three of the libraries in question hold a special place in my heart, and their closure has filled me with sadness, coupled with fear for the future of our communities.”
Leicester –Leicester council plans £2.1m cuts to libraries and community centres– East Midlands Business Link. “The proposal includes transferring 11 facilities to community organisations while retaining 12 sites as “multi-service centres” and keeping the city’s Central Library.”. “Libraries in Evington, Knighton, and Rushey Mead, along with the Tudor Centre, Eyres Monsell Community Centre, and Gilmorton Community Rooms” may go volunteer. “With its library relocated, the St Matthew’s Centre may close, while the Fosse Neighbourhood Centre in Newfoundpool could be sold. The council plans to invest £1 million in the 12 sites it will retain, with five locations—including Beaumont Leys Library Hub and Highfields Library Hub—set to operate with staff hours 40 per week. Additional self-service hours will be available at select locations.”
Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire library managers up for national award – Oxford Mail. “Witney Library’s Jake Tilling and Hook Norton Library’s Karen Seymour have been recognised at the Libraries Connected Awards for their efforts in the county council’s Making Every Contact Count initiative.”
Pembrokeshire – Inspiring a love of reading with local authors – Pembrokeshire Council. “took part in the Books Council of Wales ‘Stars of the Shelves’ Initiative – to bring school children into libraries to meet local authors.” … “There was overwhelmingly positive feedback from the pupils who took part, and it is fantastic to see our young people fostering enthusiasm for reading and writing.””
Updates to Pembrokeshire library services ahead of change – Western Telegraph. “Pembrokeshire Libraries has joined an all-Wales Public Library Service consortium, with the change of supplier supported by Welsh Government grant funding.”
Rutland – Rutland Council delays decision over controversial library closure but cash may have been found – Oakham Nub News. “Campaigners fighting to save their village library are feeling hopeful after a senior member of Rutland County Council said money to keep the library open ‘may have been found’. The authority had said a decision on the future of Ryhall Library would be made next week but has put out a statement to say it would be delaying the decision to ‘consider opportunities that merit further exploration with community leaders.’ ”
Shropshire – Check out my threads! The local library where you can borrow a new outfit – Positive News. ““There’s something about the library,” she said.“It’s not an intimidating boutique or the busy, noisy high street. I’ve had people tell me that sometimes they’ll go into a shop and even the music makes them feel like they don’t fit in there. We want this to feel welcoming and accessible to everybody.”” … “registered as a Community Interest Company and moved the shared wardrobe to its new home at Oswestry library, run by volunteers and backed by a crowdfunding campaign and a grant from Shropshire council.”
Stoke-on-Trent libraries bring back fines from today for first time since Covid – Stoke Sentinel. “”At the moment there is no clear evidence nationally on the impact of removing fines on membership, issues or stock retention. To note this is only for adult members not children, this is still fine free. It is always difficult to predict what income would be generated from fines.”
Vale of Glamorgan – First Minister visits Barry Library Makerspace – Welsh Libraries. “The Vale of Glamorgan Council welcomed the Welsh Government First Minister Eluned Morgan and Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Jane Hutt to see the innovative facilities on offer at Barry Library. The visit highlighted the digital learning opportunities available to Vale residents at Barry and Penarth libraries – including the brand-new Makerspaces.”
Warrington – Library could close as part of bid to save £30m – BBC. “Warrington Council is seeking to close Westbrook Library and also introduce a tiered system, which would see some libraries employing paid staff for fewer hours while others would have no on-site staff at all.” … “Libraries in Bewsey and Dallam, Birchwood, Great Sankey, Orford, and Woolston would become self-service, without “dedicated” library staff, the authority said.”
Warwickshire – Changes to Warwickshire Libraries online services to begin from 9 April – Warwickshire Council. “Warwickshire County Council’s library service is about to begin implementing a significant changeover of its online systems, including its website and app, from Wednesday 9 April – Tuesday 29 April 2025 … Due to unforeseen circumstances, Borrowbox will also now be unavailable during the changeover period to anyone who is not logged into this online service before 8 April … The new library management system will provide a quicker and more user-friendly experience with several new features, including a new Library App which will enable customers to use a digital library card, making issues and renewals much more efficient.”
West Sussex – West Sussex authors top your ‘most popular’ list – West Sussex Council. “West Sussex residents nominated their most-loved authors and Griffiths, Austen and James were the top three in a list that spans such diverse genres as fantasy, crime fiction, children’s and horror, as well as domestic noir, historical romance and humour.”
York – Where Did All the Libraries Go? – York Vision. “Transferring services online still doesn’t tackle the issue of accessibility for the people who utilise the technology support that in-person libraries provide, therefore cutting off these groups even more. The facilities libraries provide to communities, separate from those of book loaning, must be appreciated for any real change to be done. The government must see the benefits these centers provide so cuts can be reduced and, wherever possible, prevented.”
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