“More than books”

Editorial

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”.

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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.

Changes by local authority

National news

  • 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.”

Megan, 17

International news

News by local authority

  • Bedford – Library spotlight: Dyslexia-friendly books – Bedford Council.
  • Carmarthenshire – Carmarthenshire libraries host dementia awareness events – South Wales Guardian. “sing-along and reminiscence sessions to raise awareness of the Reading Well for Dementia collection.”
  • 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.
  • Glasgow -Repair work to begin at library after RAAC discovery – Glasgow Times. “Cardonald Library closed in September 2023 after the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was discovered in the roof.”
  • 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”
  • Liverpool – The Reader launches new Shared Reading group in Spellow Library ‘open to everyone, regardless of background or literacy levels’ – Culture Liverpool. “It was originally due to start in 2024 after Spellow Library reopened last March but was put on hold following damage caused by devastating riots which swept across the city and UK last summer triggered by events in Southport.”
  • North East Lincolnshire – Library to stay shut for ‘some time’ after leak – BBC. “Grimsby Central Library will remain closed for “some time” to allow asbestos to be removed. The building closed at short notice in March after a water leak “created a risk of asbestos disturbance”.”
  • Northern Ireland – Plans for Belfast Central Library redevelopment in limbo amid resource pressures as officials work to ‘resolve issues’ – Belfast Telegraph. Paywall.
  • Oxfordshire – Refurbished library officially reopens – BBC. “Henley library has a new heating system, lighting, double glazing, contemporary furniture, and a dedicated work and study space with charging points.”
  • 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.”
  • Thurrock – Easter fun at Thurrock libraries – Thurrock Council.
  • 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. “
  • Westmorland and Furness – Call for young volunteers to support Summer Reading Challenge – Westmorland and Furness Council. “All volunteers are given training before the challenge starts and if they are working towards a Duke of Edinburgh Award or similar, their logged hours can be counted towards it.”
  • 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.”
  • York – Local History Month at Explore York Libraries and Archives – York Press.

There’s another word for it

Editorial

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.

Changes by local authority

National news

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.)

International news

Canada – Tariffs could raise costs of books etc
USAArizona Attorney General Kris Mayes joined other Democratic states in two lawsuits against the Trump administration to protect library funding and research.

Local news by authority

  • 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.”
  • Bedford Bookworms boost Bedford libraries to record-breaking February – Bedford Independent. “Love Libraries Month saw a record-breaking February in Bedford Borough, with more than 30,000 visits recorded across the borough’s libraries – and the highest-ever monthly footfall at Bedford Central Library since records began in 2022.” See Bedford Borough Year of Reading 2025.
  • 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.”
  • Brighton and Hove – Hundreds back campaign to protect popular library from closure – Argus. “More than 1,400 people have signed a petition to try to protect Rottingdean library from closure.”
  • 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”.”
  • Central Bedfordshire – Library Services Manager – Central Bedfordshire Council. Vacancy. Full time. From £53k.
  • 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.”
  • Devon – Devon toys and boards libraries an example for Cornwall to follow – Cornwall Live. Not a public library service but shows popularity of reuse: toy libraries at beaches.
    • 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.”
  • Dudley – Dudley Libraries offer free Easter activities for children – Dudley Council.
  • 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.”
  • Haringey – Celebrate International Children’s Book Day at your local library – Haringey Council. Crafts and events. “We have recently launched a new Library of the Month campaign. “
  • Hartlepool – Hartlepool’s Seaton Carew Community Hub opens to the public after £250,000 renovations – Hartlepool Mail. “The library has a brand new layout including a communal space, adult lending library, children’s area, public computers and a meeting room.” £200k Libraries Improvement Fund. £50k from Council for the roof.
  • 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.
    • Goodbye Gidea Park Library-Sad Day As Library Closes Its Doors After 60 Years. – Havering Daily. “Gidea Park Library closed its doors for the final time, after serving the adults and children in the community for over sixty years. “
    • 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.”
  • Liverpool – Liverpool Libraries have lots to do for all the family this Easter – Explore Liverpool.
Manchester

Stay alert to opportunities

Rather than have an editorial this week, I was grateful to Dr Anjna Chouhan of Warwickshire Libraries for giving a few lines on being an NPO Creative Producer and on how she became a board member of the Arts Marketing Association.

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A Few Questions with Dr Anjna Chouhan, NPO Creative Producer (Area Librarian). Warwickshire County Council and new board member with the Arts Marketing Association

How did you get into working in libraries? I stepped into libraries after working as an academic in a museum. The world of libraries is so exciting and public facing, engaging, and has fantastic community networks. When Warwickshire Libraries was given NPO status, it felt like an ideal opportunity to be part of the library sector and champion its vast potential for cultural impact.  

What is a “Creative Producer”? In the context of Warwickshire Libraries, it’s someone who designs events while shaping and delivering strategy, as well as content across multiple platforms.

How important do you think the Arts are for Libraries? The arts enrich libraries’ existing offerings. They have the power to engage and inspire, forging communities, uniting stakeholders, and creating impactful encounters across all ages and backgrounds.

Which project are you most proud of? Our annual Park Life Reads festival stands out. In 2024, we held the event in a Nuneaton community centre, bringing together creatives, environmentalists, and literary enthusiasts alongside wellbeing experts. The results were remarkable: over 30% of the audience were first-time library engagers, 96% reported feeling happier, and 100% felt more confident participating in cultural activities. We also provided 200 free lunches and 100 free ice-creams, making the event truly accessible.

Photo (from left to right): Illustrator Emily Sutton and Dr Anjna Chouhan with their new children’s book “Shakespeare’s First Folio: All The Plays”.

Should libraries be more involved in marketing? Messaging around libraries is absolutely needed, so it would benefit the sector enormously to be better aware of networks and marketing support, like that offered by the AMA.

How can the Arts Marketing Association help? Whether it’s social media support, branding or general copy writing, the AMA is an incredibly valuable resource for libraries.

They provide training, support and advocacy for cultural marketers, with over 4,300 members from cultural organisations including libraries such as us at Warwickshire Libraries, The British Library, Suffolk Libraries, Libraries Unlimited and Gloucestershire Libraries.

How can librarians put themselves forward to be on a board / does someone approach you ? / how does it work? Being on a board is an honour and a significant responsibility. Organisations expect members to contribute both expertise and time. In my experience, opportunities arise through different routes. I’ve responded to open calls for board members at the AMA and gone through an election process. In another instance, I proactively approached a charity not actively seeking members. My advice to librarians: stay alert to opportunities and don’t hesitate to reach out to organisations about which you feel passionate.

Thank you to Dr Anjna Chouhan and the Arts Marketing Association for agreeing to this short interview.

Changes by local authority

National news

  • GLL Literary Foundation’s launch event celebrates children’s authors – GLL. “Children’s authors, librarians and notables from the publishing world gathered at Battersea Library in South London yesterday (20th March 2025) to celebrate the launch of the GLL Literary Foundation.” … “Each of the successful authors will receive a bursary of £750 alongside in-kind support worth up to £4,000 each, that includes being partnered with a local librarian mentor who will help deliver a series of author events and provide networking opportunities with local booksellers, publishers, literary festivals and schools. “
  • How libraries can support blind and partially sighted communities  – Reading Agency. “With funding from the Ulverscroft Foundation, we partnered with Vision Norfolk to run co-production groups with blind and partially sighted participants to support Reading Friends – our reading connection programme. These sessions gave us valuable insights on their experiences with reading and libraries. Here’s what we learned – and different ways libraries might apply these insights as part of Reading Friends group activities and more widely.  “
  • Labour civil war erupts as Lisa Nandy set to be ousted for ‘not working hard enough’ – Daily Express. Minister ultimately in charge of public libraries brief. “, a source said: “Lisa seems to work about two days a week on her portfolio.” She has also been criticised for reportedly being interested in the “sport” part of her brief in running the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.”
  • Libraries in the digital age – BBC. Podcast. “What is the purpose of libraries in the era of the internet and AI? Whether at a school or in a community, libraries used to be key providers of information and enjoyment for many. But now, in a digital age, more books and periodicals are available online than even the biggest library can hold. If terabytes of text can now be stored on a single laptop, do we need to think differently about the way we access and navigate books? Could well-designed AI tools be trusted to make sense of this information abundance in a similar way that a good librarian can?”

International news

USA – Executive order threatens Iowa’s book lending program at libraries

Local news by authority

  • Argyll – Four libraries to close in Argyll as locals fight to save services – Herald Scotland. “Live Argyll currently runs 13 libraries across Argyll with Capbeltown, Cardross, Dunoon, Helensburgh, Lochgilphead, Oban, Rosneath, Rothesay, Tarbert, Tiree, Tobermory, Sandbank and Islay Mobile Library all under their guidance. The business plan for the trust for 2025 to 2027 now lists just nine libraries with Tiree, Tarbert, Cardross and Rosneath all missing. West Coast Today reports the discovery was made when an applicant for the position of library assistant at Tiree was told the post had been withdrawn.”
  • Bromley – Author Michael Braccia to launch new novel at Dudley Library – Dudley News.
  • Cheshire West and Chester – First glimpse of what new Northwich Library will look like – Northwich and Winsford Guardian. “The work included asbestos removal, floor joist replacement, and timber frame repairs but has now been completed. The next phase will see the building redesigned – with CGI images of what it could look like being published online by Cheshire West and Chester Council.”
  • Cornwall – Sensory story bags introduced at Cornwall’s libraries – Cornish Times. “Sensory story bags, designed to engage people with sensory needs, are now available to borrow from Cornwall’s libraries. Cornwall Library Service has bought a collection of sensory stories created by Joanna Grace, founder of The Sensory Projects.”
  • Cumberland – Council seeks public input on Cumberland libraries – News and Star. “Cumberland Council plans to launch a public survey and host a series of engagement events to gather views on and explore the future of library services in the region.”
  • Contractor appointed for major transformation of Carlisle Library – Cumberland Council. “This major redevelopment, funded by the UK Government’s Carlisle Town Deal, represents a £3.3 million investment in the city’s cultural and educational future. The project aims to revitalise Carlisle Library into a cutting-edge learning and community hub, offering state-of-the-art facilities tailored to modern users’ needs”
  • Ealing – Celebrating libraries: cornerstone of communities – Ealing Council. “At a time when some boroughs are having to reduce their library services, we are committed to their future and continue to look at innovative ways to offer more than just books. That’s why we chose to invest £900,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Funding allocated to us by the government, for extensive refurbishments at Northolt and Acton libraries and the Dominion Centre in Southall …  Next week, we’ll be celebrating their fresh new look at reopening events in the libraries” … Making four libraries volunteer-run has “given communities an opportunity to get more involved in creating and running their local library in the way they decide” … Northolt Leisure Centre Library and Jubilee Gardens Library to be come volunteer as well.
  • Join the celebrations at new-look libraries – Around Ealing. “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.”
  • Essex – Harwich Library transformation to finish this summer for 50th anniversary – Tendring District Council. “The £1.16 million transformation of Harwich Library is on course to finish this summer in time for its 50th anniversary. Harwich Library will expand by 182 sqm and sport two new classrooms for up to 40 learners, which can be used by community-based providers.”
  • Hartlepool – Welcome to Seaton Carew Community Hub – Hartlepool Council. “Featuring a fresh new look, upgraded facilities and a wider range of activities and services, this latest member of the Community Hubs family will be officially opened on Wednesday 2nd April at 10am.”
  • Highlands – Lochaber libraries blaze a trail for fundraising week – West Coast Today. Paywall.
  • Hounslow – Hounslow to transform local libraries into Community Hubs – Hounslow Council. “Community Hubs” and Libraries to be combined.
  • Lancashire – The membership of Lancashire libraries – Library Storytelling. An in-depth look at who uses Lancashire libraries and the use of data in analysing membership.
  • Manchester – First images: Chorlton Library to reopen after year-long restoration – Manchester Council. “An iconic building in the heart of Chorlton, this Grade II listed library has gone through a complete transformation to enhance the existing structure and refurbish the building. This process has unveiled long-hidden architectural treasures at the same time as upgrading facilities, to ensure it stays relevant for the next 100 years.”
  • Newcastle – Library opening hours cuts ‘will hit new writers’ – BBC. “From April, Newcastle City Library will close at 14:00 BST on a Saturday, rather than 16:00, as part of savings to “deliver a balanced budget”, the local authority said. Gateshead author Annie Doyle, who writes historical family saga novels based on her nana’s life growing up in the North East, said her “writing journey” began at the library.”
  • Newham – In praise of Warm Havens – We are Newham, we are helping – Newham Council. “5,000 additional visits to libraries during the extended opening hours” … “Some residents said they came to the library for the warmth and the unlimited hot drinks available at no cost. They also appreciated being able to use other services such as free Wi-Fi and phone charging. Others commented that they hadn’t had a hot drink since the previous day due to a lack of money, and they found the service extremely helpful.””
  • North East Lincolnshire – Water leak temporarily closes town’s library – BBC. “Grimsby Central Library has been forced to close temporarily after water leaked onto the premises following a period of rainfall overnight this week. North East Lincolnshire Council said an inspection revealed urgent remedial work was needed and the service would be “relocated as soon as possible”.”
  • North Northamptonshire – Year-long library roof repairs due to start – BBC. “Work to replace the roof on a Grade II listed library building will start next month and take more than a year to complete. The roof of Kettering Library and Art Gallery in Northamptonshire was damaged during heavy rain in 2023. North Northamptonshire Council earmarked almost £7m for the repairs and local firm Messenger will be using Collyweston slate from the county for the repairs.”

“Oundle Library is still in an awful state of disrepair nine months after the fire. The staff room is a shell. Although the library is open, there are no computers or printing in the building. If any printing is needed, it is brought by car from Corby Library. There’s been almost no noticeable moves to make things better.” North Northamptonshire – Oundle Library – Email received.

No Safe Place for Trusts

Editorial

The rubber-stamping of the return of libraries in Suffolk to direct council control is full of controversy. We have of course seen many other non-profits (Falkirk, Flintshire, Merthyt Tydfil, Northamptonshire, Peterborough, Warrington – ish – and Wigan) losing public library control over the last few years. But Suffolk stands out, not just because of the unexpectedness and tone of the decision, but because Suffolk Libraries were largely seen as being highly successful.

So for those organisations still running trusts, including the mighty GLL, York Explore and Libraries Unlimited, the lesson is clear. You are not safe. And not because of anything you can do anything about but rather because, simply, your local councillors may just desire to get the contract back. And this could happen any time. Suffolk County Council itself may not last even another year due to devolution.

There are two bigger picture stories that have become crystal clear the last week too. The first is that the current Labour government is effectively simply continuing austerity policies of the previous government, right down to cutting benefits for the disabled. So no-one is coming to save public libraries. Rather it’s up to the sector itself to do so. Thankfully, the last fifteen years or so has given a lot of tips about what works in that regard.

Secondly, USA public libraries are now in a country whose government does not like public libraries. Now, few would have looked at their president before and thought “now there’s a man who’s regularly seen at his local branch” but the decision to effectively eliminate the national funding body for libraries kind of confirms he’s not the type. And the decision to stop up the access to the previously bi-national library on the Canadian border is just an extra sign, a big “no access” sign, that this can take place at the most local level as well. It’s almost as if libraries there are under the control of someone with their own political motives, lack of attachment to facts and prone to acting on a whim. Obviously, not at all like Suffolk.

Changes by local authority

National news

  • £1.1bn British Library extension plans to go ahead – BBC. “The project will see a total of 700,000 sq ft (65,090 sq m) of new library, learning, research and commercial space on the site in Kings Cross, alongside a redesigned full-height foyer and public entrances.”
  • Anti-racist Book Reviews – People’s Collection Wales. “As part of the CILIP Anti Racist Library Collections in Public Libraries in Wales project we collected short book reviews from public librarians in Wales. As part of Phase 1 of the project we bought books – by black authors, about anti-racism, and about diversity in libraries – from small specialist suppliers (Gwales, Books from Nowhere, and Facet). We posted books from the list to each volunteer reviewer. We hope these reviews will encourage library colleagues to read and talk about a range of potentially anti-racist books. Please see the reviewer guidelines for more information and context and feel free to re-use.”
World Book Day 2025 – Thank You.
  • Libraries are the heart of our rural communities – Friends of the Earth Scotland. “Across Scotland, local councils are closing rural libraries at an alarming rate. In Aberdeenshire alone, there are thirteen currently at risk.” … “I guess long story short, a library is more than just a building. It’s the heart of our rural communities, and we must ensure that they continue beating for the future generations.”
  • ‘A library is more than a place with books, it is a lifeline’ – BBC. “The UK is losing libraries at a rate of about 40 each year, BBC research has found. According to those who depend on them, local libraries are far more than a repository of books – they are community focal points and, for some, a vital lifeline to the outside world. What happens when one closes?”
  • The library named the best in Wales is revealed – Nation Cymru. “Awen Cultural Trust has won the Welsh title, engaging the local community in the heart of South Wales with their 21 Book Challenge challenging adult readers alongside the children’s Summer Reading Challenge, resulting in converting more parents to reading.”

“The following table shows the number of open static libraries in England in the most recent 10 years for which data is available. The data is taken from the Arts Council England Basic Dataset for Libraries 2023 which consolidated and validated previous datasets.

1/7/201631/12/201931/12/202131/12/202231/12/2023
Number of open static libraries included in the dataset3,0102,9382,9142,8942,877
Number of open static libraries within the statutory provision2,7272,5852,5502,5762,578
Chris Bryant The Minister of State, Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)

International news

“They invented the internet and now it devours them! How does does digitization change libraries and archives? We have three amazing guests to discuss this with: ✨ Ulla Leinikka is the communication manager of the Helsinki Central Library Oodi ✨ Monika Bargmann is a Data Stewardess at the Faculty of Philological and Cultural Studies at University of Vienna ✨ Tamás Miszler is the director of the Csorba Győző Library, Baranya county in Hungary.”
  • Canada – Temporary closure of Saskatoon library branches amid overdose crisis needed but won’t fix broader issues: CUPE – CBC. Two branches closed due to high number of drug overdoses. “Library staff responded to at least 48 overdoses or drug poisonings so far this year — almost double the number from the same period in 2024, according to a statement from the public library.” … “Staff at the two branches are routinely stopping people from using or selling drugs, and are removing intoxicated people from the buildings in line with bylaw requirements” … “The provincial government hasn’t increased library funding in the last three budgets and … they took the funding away for harm reduction”.
  • Canada/USA – Library on US-Canadian border feels effects of crackdown on movement – Argus. “For more than 100 years, people in Stanstead, Quebec in Canada have been able to walk into Derby Line, in the US state of Vermont to enter the Haskell Free Library and Opera House – no passport required. But municipal and library officials said on Friday that US authorities have unilaterally decided to end the century-old unwritten agreement.” … “In February, the Boston Globe reported that the US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited the library and repeated Mr Trump’s taunts about making Canada the 51st state as she stepped back and forth across the line that marks the border.” see also US blocks Canadian access to cross-border library, sparking outcry – Guardian. USA claims its to stop crimes but “The department provided no evidence of drug trafficking or smuggling and did not immediately respond to a request for additional information.”
China – Mushroom library for Children in Yunnan / Kong Xiangwei Studio – Arch Daily. Concrete mini-library for hamlet with 71 families.

Local news by authority

Greenwich – Roehampton Library, children’s library
  • Greenwich – Eltham library hailed for its status as a community hub and friend of Ukraine – London News Online. “Eltham Centre Library has been been highly commended in the ‘Library of the Year’ awards – acknowledging the part it has played in helping Ukrainians fleeing the war with Russia.” … “This has included more inclusive stock, eye-catching displays and even new wallpaper says October Jones, Children’s Librarian and the driving force behind the scheme.”. Roehampton children’s library mentioned.
  • Guernsey – Community library to close after 76 years – BBC. “A community library in Guernsey which specialises in large print books is closing after 76 years. St John Guernsey Charity said it will shut the library, which won the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2014, in May. The charity said it was “no longer… best placed” to continue offering the service and it would be transferred to the Guille-Allès Library in St Peter Port.”
  • Middlesbrough – Hope refurbished central library will reopen early – BBC. “Middlesbrough Central Library is set to reopen its doors sooner than planned following a “really exciting” redevelopment. The facility was closed in December 2023 for a refurbishment and was not due to reopen until the summer. However, councillors have been told it could now reopen in six weeks’ time, in May.”
  • Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire library set to reopen after refurbishment – Oxford Mail. “The library, under Oxfordshire County Council, has been made more environmentally sustainable with new heating systems, lighting, and double glazing. There is also new contemporary furniture and dedicated work and study spaces with charging points. The furniture uses fabric made entirely from recycled plastics, including sea debris and landfill-bound bottles.” … “The renovations were made possible through a combination of central government decarbonisation funds and developer funding, also known as the community infrastructure levy”
  • Somerset – Library to get £1.5m funding to fix leaky roof – BBC. “”This work will make the building watertight and weatherproof – as what good is a library if it’s full of water?”” … “”This funding of up to £1.5m is coming out of a pot of money we put in place to look after our listed assets.”
    • Library to close for vital upgrades – Somerset Council. Taunton ” library, and The Glass Box innovation space, will close their doors on Wednesday and Thursday 9 and 10 April for a major IT network and Wi-Fi hardware and systems improvements.”
  • Stirling – New chapter for library services to be written following public consultation – Stirling Council. “Focus groups are to be set up across Stirling for residents to look at what the future of Stirling Council’s library service may look like.”
  • Stoke on Trent – New library for ‘forgotten town’ as satellite site set to open at Fenton Manor – Stoke Sentinel. Unstaffed new “satellite” library planned. “Under the plans, shelves would be installed in the circulation space between the main entrance and the cafe, with existing leisure centre staff overseeing the service.” … ” the city council is looking to recruit more volunteers to work alongside paid staff at its six existing libraries.” … ” Some libraries could eventually move to a volunteer-led model,”
  • Suffolk – Mark Murphy: Suffolk County Council libraries backlash – East Anglian Daily Times. Paywall. “Suffolk County Council picking a fight with Suffolk Libraries Trust is liking Donald Trump picking a fight with Canada – why would you do it?”
    • Could Suffolk Libraries decision be challenged at county? – Ipswich Star. “Both the official opposition – the Green Liberal Democrat and Independent group – and the Labour group on the council have asked the council’s monitoring officer to call in Tuesday’s decision.” … ““My group was appalled by the decision on Tuesday, and the treatment of the libraries staff, volunteers and Friends groups – it’s been heartless and I’m sure they felt absolutely wrung out by the end of the afternoon”
    • Despite public outcry, the Tories just grabbed Suffolk Libraries back from a successful not-for-profit – Canary. “the council’s financial prudence is under scrutiny. The sudden decision to terminate the contract with Suffolk Libraries, especially after the charity’s proven efficiency and community engagement, suggests a lack of strategic foresight. This move could result in increased costs and reduced services, undermining the very community-centric model that has been lauded nationally.​” … “Suffolk County Council’s decision to reclaim control of the library services appears ill-conceived and dismissive of the substantial progress made under Suffolk Libraries. The council must reconsider its stance, engage in meaningful dialogue with the charity, and prioritize the interests of the communities that have benefited immensely from the enriched library services over the past decade”
    • New chapter as libraries revert to council control – BBC Radio Suffolk. 3 minute radio article.
    • Opinion: Suffolk’s libraries now need to prepare for future – East Anglian Daily Times. Paywall. “In the end it wasn’t really a debate when Suffolk County Council’s cabinet came to decide on the future of the library service.”
    • Protests as library services taken back by council – BBC. “Bruce Leeke, chief executive of Suffolk Libraries, said its finances were “rigorously managed”. He said the council had “seen the finances every month” and asked: “Why has this suddenly become an issue?””
    • Suffolk County Council confirms decision to bring Library Services back In-House – Suffolk County Council. “The decision, made at the Cabinet meeting earlier today, will ensure continued access to high-quality, community-focused library services across the county.”
    • Suffolk County Council libraries takeover backed as formal challenge request launched – Suffolk News. “On Tuesday, members of Suffolk County Council’s cabinet voted on taking the library service in-house from June.” … “Several protests took place in the weeks leading up to the decision, reflecting the strength of feeling shared in a petition which reached close to 23,000 signatures.” … Councillor “accused Suffolk Libraries of trying to get the authority to ‘roll over’ and agree to its demands with an ‘unshakeable belief’ the charity was the only option.” … “Despite the approval, however, councillors from the opposing Labour and GLI Groups have both invoked the ‘call-in’ process to formally challenge the decision.”
    • Suffolk County Council makes its decision on libraries – East Anglian Daily Times. Minute-by-minute timeline of the debate and vote.
    • Suffolk Libraries responds to Suffolk County Council decision on library service – Suffolk Libraries. “We are all devastated that the achievements and hard work of our staff, volunteers and supporters over the past 12 and a half years, coupled with the amazing support we’ve had over the past three weeks have still not been enough to convince the county council to change its mind, or at least reconsider its proposal.”
    • Suffolk Libraries to hold two-day DiscoveReads book festival in Ipswich – Suffolk Libraries. “Suffolk Libraries is working in collaboration with Suffolk Archives and the University of Suffolk to hold an exciting two-day book festival at The Hold in Ipswich this May as part of its DiscoveReads book promotion for 2025. The festival will include writing workshops, archive rummages, a pop-up book shop and six author talks”
    • Why is Suffolk Council wrecking a successful library system? – East Anglian Bylines. “The local election due in May has been postponed by a year because reorganisation is expected to be imminent. So, a reasonable person might expect an organisation facing a gigantic upheaval would not start tinkering with a part of its service that is working well. A reasonable person would be wrong.”
  • West Dunbartonshire – Residents asked to help West Dunbartonshire’s libraries – Reporter. “A consultation has been launched inviting the community to share their thoughts on accessing library services, activities, and priorities.”
  • Wirral – All the libraries that could close in £25m cuts – Liverpool Echo. “CIPFA said the council’s programme to transform itself has not saved much money. The organisation said the council’s back office functions “are large, expensive and do not currently provide value for money” with “many staff with legacy or historic job titles that do not accurately describe their current roles.”” … “Council-run libraries still at risk of closure include Beechwood, Eastham, Greasby, Rock Ferry and Upton. Wirral Council has also been asked for clarification about the future of three partnership libraries in Leasowe, Seacombe, and St James.”
  • York – Why Explore York Libraries are good for us & deserve support – York Press. “I truly believe that Explore York Libraries and Archives are a beacon of goodness. Our customers make up a wonderful community, and we are grateful for your support.” … “So, if the world ever feels overwhelming, come to Explore. Because in my experience, everyone on our team is good – and we hope to remind you that, even in difficult times, most people are good.”

Decision day for Suffolk and the Library of the Year

Editorial

Good grief, there’s a lot going on in Suffolk. You’ll remember that the council there has decided to bring back libraries into full council control, after it being run by a non-profit, Suffolk Libraries. Well, it looks like this is not the most popular decision, with over 20,000 signing a petition in protest and existing library volunteers declaring they will not continue helping out if the non-profit goes. Also, it turns out the change will cost £1.8m, which Suffolk Libraries points out, would secure the service under them with no reductions for three years. There’s also concern that whatever the councillors say, future austerity, and devolution, will force cuts on the service. In response, the council is promising extra investment and accusing the trust of being run by fat cats. The final decision will be made on Tuesday.

Awards are a great way of publicising library services, as well as highlighting the wonderful things they do. The British Book Awards have proven this again this year, with the help that there were joint winners and also some highly commended. Which is just showing off. But the best kind.

In other news, it’s sad to see Brighton and Hove, which I associate with good things library-wise as well as a rather bohemian outlook on life, thinking about cutting services but, on the other hand, good news in Knowsley where the temporarily extended opening hours have been confirmed long-term.

Changes by library authority

National news

  • The British Book Awards 2025 Library of the Year regional and county winners revealed – BookSeller. “Ten libraries and library authorities, from across the UK and Ireland, have been crowned regional and country winners at The British Book Awards 2025, celebrating those that make reading more accessible and inclusive. Lewisham, Manchester and Midlothian Library Services are among those to make the final cut from the 36 shortlisted finalists.” … “That there are joint winners, and four high commendations, speaks to the tough decisions the judges had to make.”. Winners include ” All Star Book Club designed for adults with Down syndrome”; “‘Winchester GoLD’ programme supporting adults with learning disabilities led to 40% of those attending signing up to the library”; ” Gaelic and British Sign Language sessions”;  a creative project engaging Afghan refugees with flower pressing to create bookmarks; Summer Reading Challenge training; Blue Peter Book Club Live programme; Imagined Worlds festival, a series of events celebrating sci-fi and fantasy; 21 Book Challenge for adult readers”
  • Carnegie Medal for Writing Shortlist 2025 – The Carnegies.
  • Many families may not feel welcome at library storytimes – here’s how to ensure everyone benefits from them – Conversation. “In theory, storytime sessions at local libraries should be part of the solution.” … However, it may be that because these sessions tend to be designed and delivered by confident, experienced readers, and attended by families who already engage with books at home, parents who did not have this advantage may feel less welcome or even uncomfortable.”
  • Public Libraries Forum 2025: 40 Years of NAG – Looking Back, Looking Forward – National Acquisitions Forum. “NAG’s Collection Development Seminar and Public Libraries Forum event will take place at the Leeds Marriott Hotel, Trevelyan Square, LS1 6ET, on Thursday 15th May 2025.”
  • Public library byelaws – Gov.uk. “These model library byelaws, supersede those published in August 2017. They are intended to help public libraries deliver their service within a safe and comfortable environment, to safeguard library property and to make libraries places everyone can enjoy.”
  • Sadiq Khan demands book exchanges reinstated in Tube stations amid fire safety row – Standard. “I’ve seen the difference they make, by speaking to commuters around Highbury & Islington, Oval and other parts of the network. TfL and LFB are responding to my request, and I’m hoping there’ll be a very swift announcement that this decision has been u-turned.”” see also Tube station book swap ban ‘ridiculous’ – BBC.
  • Stars of the Shelves Author Visits Helping Children Connect with Literacy – Welsh Libraries. ““Stars of the Shelves” is the latest project run by The Book Council of Wales and funded by Welsh Government. The purpose of the project is to invite authors to hold workshops for school children in libraries throughout Wales. The project runs until the end of March 2025 and over 25 authors from Wales will have had the chance to hold sessions to approx 4,500 children in 75 different libraries across Wales.”
  • Toy library scheme ‘would help struggling families’ – BBC. “Friends of the Earth Cymru, Early Years Wales, and an existing toy library have jointly written an open letter to the Welsh government calling for its support for the scheme.”
  • Working with IT: Library Guide for the Year Ahead – Lorensbergs. “With the right IT support, libraries can explore how they might develop the underlying library offer, how they might advance digital access and skills development overall. Can they do it better? Can they be more ambitious in who they help and with what tasks or skills?”

International news

Toronto Public Libraries vote in favour of a strike
  • USA – Struggle for control of public libraries in full swing across the Deep South – Southern Poverty Law Center. “No one used to envision libraries as battlefields. But in 2025, that’s what they have become. Across the South over the last decade, control of what happens on bookshelves has turned into a pitched battle, with white supremacist and Christian nationalist groups on one side facing off against an unlikely coalition of progressives, educators, Black leaders and drag queens on the other.” … “more than a third (36%) of the 4,218 books banned during the 2023-2024 school year featured characters or people of color. Measuring only history books or biographies, that number rises to 44%. ”
    • Behind the stacks: research exposes sexual harassment of library workers – University of Alberta. “Only seven per cent of workers report never being harassed by patrons, say researchers who have identified “pillars of resistance.””
    • Statement on Trump’s Attack on Federal Funding for Libraries – EveryLibrary. “The Executive Order states that IMLS must be reduced to its “statutory functions.” It also requires that “non-statutory components and functions …shall be eliminated to the maximum extent…”. We are extremely concerned that the wording of this E.O. could result in cuts to the core functions of IMLS. The Administration and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have used similar E.O.s to dismantle the other federal agencies.”

Local news by authority

  • Aberdeen – New chapter for Cults Library as locals launch crusade to bring it back to life – Press and Journal. “Residents of an Aberdeen suburb have joined forces to ensure the story of Cults Library isn’t over quite yet… The venue was one of six libraries to be axed during “machete-wielding” city council budget cuts two years ago. Local authority chiefs closed them to save around £280,000 per year.”. Friends group trying to reopen Cults Library.
  • Barnsley – Barnsley Libraries named one of the best libraries in the North at the British Book Awards – Barnsley Council. “Judges selected Barnsley for the fantastic work of our National Portfolio Organisation Team, who support exciting cultural activities across our libraries, including developing the travelling Story Shell with international artists Suzie Devey and Steve Messam, to encourage reading in new creative ways.”
  • Brighton and Hove – Brighton’s Jubilee Library is one of the most popular in the country – Argus. “More than 3,000 new members joined Brighton & Hove libraries within the first two weeks and the library was visited 810,000 times in its first year, with 23,000 new members. Twenty years later, Jubilee Library is still bustling with activity and continues to be one of the top 10 most popular libraries in the country. Jubilee Library has been far more successful than originally projected. In the year before the Covid-19 pandemic, the library had a million visitors, twice the number originally projected.”
    • Up to three libraries may close, says council report – Brighton and Hove News. “Up to three community libraries could close while customer services look likely to be moved out of the town hall and into remaining libraries in Brighton and Hove. The possible changes are outlined in a report to Brighton and Hove City Council’s People Overview and Scrutiny Committee”
  • Camden – Swiss Cottage Library celebrates 60 years with new children’s library and historic exhibition – Camden Council. “Last week, Camden Council celebrated World Book Day at Swiss Cottage Library by opening the redesigned children’s library and launching an exhibition commemorating the gallery space’s sixtieth anniversary. The event saw the unveiling of the new children’s library, a vibrant and engaging space designed to nurture a passion for reading and learning in young people. “. Some lovely photos.
  • Derbyshire – Reduced library opening times to come into force – BBC. “The library service strategy unveiled by Derbyshire County Council in July aims to save £625,000 over the next four years. The changes, which were agreed after a 12-week public consultation, come into force on 31 March and will see all 43 council-run libraries open for at least 16 hours per week.” … “Reservation charges for book and talking book requests, where the item is either in print or in stock in Derbyshire libraries, are being ended, as are charges for borrowing talking books.”
  • Devon – Exeter librarian shortlisted for top national award – Exeter Council. “Chris has championed the transformation of Exeter Library into a ‘cultural powerhouse’, curating an innovative and accessible events programme that engages and reflects the diverse needs of the community.”
  • Dorset – Verwood Library members given ‘extended access’ – Hello Rayo. “I usually work from home and Extended Access means I can use the library from early until late when it suits me, which is great.”
  • East Lothian – Letter of the Week: Keep our libraries safe from cuts – East Lothian Courier. “If there are to be further cuts, could the people be consulted as to where the cuts could be made by the council? Can I also make a point about alternative openings on Saturdays being almost a way to undermine any success of Saturdays.”
  • East Riding – Major refurbishment work on library to start soon – BBC. “East Riding of Yorkshire Council said the ground floor of the building would be fully refurbished and refitted with equipment including 3D printers, embroidery machines and the latest game design software. The refurbishment is being funded through a £250,000 grant from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s libraries improvement fund and about £200,000 from the council.”
  • Enfield – Enfield Council Pushes Ahead with Library Closures Despite Opposition – UK News in Pictures. “Enfield Council argues that the move will save up to £560,000 per year in staffing and operational costs, while the sale of the library buildings could generate between £3m and £3.85m.” … “The decision has sparked strong criticism from opposition Conservative councillors, who claim the cuts are unnecessary and harmful to communities.”
  • Hampshire – Winchester Library in running for National Library of the Year award – Hampshire Council. “A creative initiative to encourage reading among people with learning disabilities” … “The free 30-minute readings of classic and modern tales create a welcoming and safe space for participants to enjoy interactive storytelling, socialise, and unwind.”
  • Knowsley – Live blog: Knowsley Council Budget Meeting – Knowsley News. “We are making a permanent commitment to our Stronger Communities Fund and with an allocate £250,000 every year to community projects.  We will also permanently extend our library opening hours so that we can continue to provide community hubs for residents.”
  • Lambeth – Lambeth Libraries named as “book BAFTAs” finalists – Lambeth Council. “For Lambeth’s librarians, being shortlisted is a recognition of the unique and innovative way they manage the books they stock for the community to borrow: buying the titles customers ask for, so the books are as diverse as their readership”
  • Lewisham – Lewisham libraries named London’s best at prestigious book awards – News Shopper. “Lewisham Libraries has been crowned the London winner of The British Book Awards 2025 Library of the Year.” … “targeting specific niches and passions in books, capitalising on the current boom in fantasy to create the Imagined Worlds festival.”
  • Lincolnshire – Grantham and Bourne MP Gareth Davies reflects on Lincolnshire libraries in wake of World Book Day – Lincs Online. “As well as acting as centres of learning within our community, our libraries also act as a hub. When I visited Grantham Library, I was excited to learn about their efforts to open up more space to growing local businesses. Work led by Lincolnshire County Council at Grantham Library to create a new IT suite equipped with business software, as well as drop-in working zones with acoustic booths for meetings is due to start in the summer. This is an excellent initiative to both drive local economic growth and boost access to our library being championed by a number of our county councillors.”
    • Bra banks launched to support cancer research – BBC. “Bra banks have been set up at libraries across Lincolnshire in partnership with the charity Against Breast Cancer. Donated bras are sent for textile recovery, giving them a new lease of life and raising money for work on research, including secondary spread cancer.”
  • Manchester – Darren Harte & Colin Hyde chat to David Govier Archivist at Manchester Central Library – Mixcloud. “about the digitization project preserving the archive of Piccadilly Radio.”
  • Middlesbrough – Revamp of IT services unveiled at Thorntree Hub and Library – Middlesbrough Council. “State-of-the-art upgrades have been unveiled at one of Middlesbrough’s community hubs as part of an investment programme. Improvements at Thorntree Community Hub and Library mark the final phase of a three-year project made possible through the Libraries Improvement Fund. The Hub’s IT area has been redesigned to create a modern, vibrant space fit for purpose for the 21st century.”
  • Monmouthshire – Vow never to shut libraries ‘on my watch’ – Monmouthshire Beacon. “Labour’s Mary Ann Brocklesby did say however libraries and community hub buildings could be reviewed individually to see how they could operate more “effectively and efficiently” which she said could lead to “some challenging discussions”.”
  • Norfolk – Opening date announced for new Great Yarmouth Library – Norfolk Council. “Great Yarmouth Library is due to reopen at its new location, ‘The Place,’ on 6 May 2025, it has been announced today. This will mark a new chapter for the library, which will be housed in the former Palmers department store – a central and easily accessible location in the heart of Great Yarmouth.”
  • Nottinghamshire – Nottinghamshire library charges up around 5% from April to cover rising costs – West Bridgford Wire. “The council has proposed a series of modest price and rate increases across various services, with some charges remaining unchanged.”
  • Shropshire – Bridgnorth exhibition pays tribute to a female unsung hero of Shropshire – Daily Motion.
  • Staffordshire – Ten Staffordshire libraries receive share of £5m libraries investment – Express and Star. “More than 25 of Staffordshire’s 43 libraries are now community-managed services, where day to day running is carried out by a community group while the county council remains responsible for providing books, other stock and IT services and paying utility and maintenance costs. The scheme sparked concerns in some communities when it was first proposed more than a decade ago, but it has been hailed for keeping libraries open across the county and providing community meeting space and facilities.”
  • Stoke on Trent – Former library could be turned into flats – BBC. “Plans have been submitted proposing to create nine apartments in the old Fenton Library in Stoke-on-Trent, which has been vacant for 13 years. It originally opened in 1906 after it was funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie”
  • Suffolk – ‘Council library takeover will make things worse’ – BBC. Library users express their views of council ending contract with Suffolk Libraries. “I can’t imagine them making improvements, I expect that they will do the opposite and things will get worse” … “My fear is things will close or change… sadly, it wouldn’t surprise me if they took it over and things like this would go” … “”I think since the libraries have been run as a charity for the last 12 years they’ve done very well. I can’t see any way to change it, and I don’t think it could be improved in any way” 
    • Agenda Item 6 – Provision of Library Service (Update) – Suffolk Council. Link to Item 6 (Provision of library service) on Tuesday’s Cabinet agenda, which will decide the fate of Suffolk Libraries. “Bringing the service in-house and providing one-off investment will realise back office savings and efficiencies which will enable the protection of frontline library staff and maintain the service in its current budget envelope.” … “There will be an estimated upfront one-off cost to bringing the service back in house in year 1 of up to £1.8 million which will be funded through surplus in external revenue grant.”. Move will “provide significant opportunities for greater integration of the Council support and services, relating to Children and Young People, Public Health Communities and Adult Social Care through the 45
      libraries and their staff.”
    • Bright future for Suffolk’s libraries outlined – Suffolk Council. “By integrating the library service into the council, we will be able to deliver more cohesive and accessible public services, connecting residents with vital health and social support. “These library spaces will continue to serve as community hubs, providing seamless integration with other public services and ensuring that Suffolk’s residents can access the help they need, when they need it. “This is a positive move for Suffolk’s communities and the future of our libraries.””
    • Can Suffolk’s library service recover from the current row? – East Anglian Daily Times. Paywall. “Get a grip – that’s our blunt message today to both sides in the increasingly acrimonious row over Suffolk’s library service.”
    • Council must re-think its plan to break-up Suffolk Libraries – East Anglian Daily Times. “This weekend, I was out as usual talking to residents across Suffolk Coastal – speaking to hundreds of people over the Saturday and Sunday. And the biggest thing that came up as a frustration locally? It is probably of little surprise that so many people wanted to tell me about their dismay at Suffolk County Council’s decision to end their contract with Suffolk Libraries, and to bring the services in house.”
The Suffolk Libraries Contract: A Message from Sylvia Knights, Chair of the Board

“So of the 36 libraries in Northamptonshire back in 2017/18 there is just one that is now totally lost, i.e. Far Cotton in Northampton itself.”

Email received

Suffolk, Lambeth and free food

Editorial

The reaction to the move by Suffolk to cancel its long-running contract with Suffolk Libraries has been happening this week. More than 15,000 have signed a petition against the move and the councillor in charge has been online defending the decision, with Suffolk Libraries answering back. It’s highly unusual for such disagreements to be made public and shows the strength of feeling on the issue.

Also strong on feeling were the protests against Lambeth’s decision to cut £1 million from its library service. The council is being cagey about how it is going to do this without closing branches or reducing opening hours, which are the two things it has guaranteed it won’t be doing. So the alternatives are: cutting staff, giving away libraries to other providers (which will be may involve cutting staff), cutting book fund, cutting staff by replacing them with staff-less technology and, finally, cutting staff.

More positively, Wakefield have decided due to weight of public opinion not to cut its library budget and also there’s been some fun initiatives announced. This includes donation point for old bras, safety testing for electric blankets and loaning out sensory equipment for those with autism. There’s also a list of green initiatives from the USA, with the one that stood out to me being “community fridges”. This is something that happens in the UK too, with Devon having several, stocked by charities with supermarket food that would otherwise go to waste. Which is great for the public and the library, not just because it increases footfall and environmental impact but also, more importantly, the staff may get a free doughnut occasionally. Frankly, I feel we should start a campaign to have one in every library.

Changes by local authority

National news

International news

  • Netherlands – More libraries are offering free membership to the over-18s – Dutch News. “Libraries are already free for schoolchildren but some 40% of local councils have now extended the measure to some groups of adults, mainly people in their 20s, broadcaster NOS reported. “Libraries want to spread the message that anyone who is still studying or has just finished their studies is welcome to use the library for free,” researcher and librarian Mark Deckers said. By the end of the last century libraries had some 2.3 million, mostly paying, customers. That number has almost halved to 1.2 million”
  • USA – Let’s Keep Libraries Open Longer – American Enterprise Institute. “The New York City public library system has over 200 branches scattered throughout the metropolis, but only 21 libraries are open seven days a week. In a recent surprise announcement, New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams proposed additional funding to the city’s libraries, expanding seven-day service to 10 additional library branches citywide. While a small change, this is still great news.”

Local news by authority

Protest outside Lambeth Council against cuts
  • Campaign group protests Lambeth libraries funding cut – Arts Professional. “Campaign group Friends of Lambeth Libraries says that before the cut, the council’s budget for libraries had barely changed since 1984. It added the standstill funding already represented a loss of a third when adjusted for inflation.”
    • How shameful that Lambeth Council is marking World Book Day with library cuts – Independent. Subscription paywall.
    • Lambeth library cuts: Lib Dems slam last minute announcement – Lambeth Liberal Democrats (press release). ““It was beyond disgraceful that the Friends of Lambeth Libraries were given such a poor response to their passionate and articulate deputation at the budget full council meeting. Lambeth Labour went further in their speeches to claim how they were investing in and supporting libraries, yet they failed to mention the £1 million cut. In fact, they recently posted on social media, praising how wonderful their library provision is. Only Lambeth Labour would have the audacity to do this”
  • Lancashire – Friends groups help improve Lancashire’s library services – Lancashire Telegraph. “There are now almost 40 established groups across the county, some of which have been running for more than a decade. They help to support the libraries and enhance what they have to offer. Many of the groups have raised money to hold events or improve outdoor areas, both through fundraising and applying for grants.Friends of Savick Library, which was recently reopened, applied for funding to enable them to be able to show films, while Chorley Library has hosted local bands and other talent.”
  • Lincolnshire – Bra banks launched to support cancer research – BBC. “Bra banks have been set up at libraries across Lincolnshire in partnership with the charity Against Breast Cancer. Donated bras are sent for textile recovery, giving them a new lease of life and raising money for work on research, including secondary spread cancer.”
  • Manchester – Libraries Report 2025 – Manclibraries Blog.
  • Norfolk – Free electric blanket testing at libraries across Norfolk – Norfolk Council. “Norfolk County Council Trading Standards and Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service will be holding these drop-in sessions at libraries across the county, so people can have their electric blankets tested by an expert free of charge and stay safe and warm.”
  • Northumberland – Spring into culture with Northumberland Libraries – Northumberland Council. “From theatre performances to hands-on crafting sessions, Northumberland Library Service offers something for everyone to enjoy in the coming months – with families invited to take part in craft activities at libraries across Northumberland during half term week. There’ll also be plenty of opportunities to spring into nature at Hexham Library, including a half term planting party on February 27 and an introduction to ‘Forest Bathing’ on March 14.”
  • North Yorkshire – Mobile library stops set to double – BBC. “The van currently makes 21 stops every month but North Yorkshire Council plans to increase it to at least 40 in the region. Money from the government’s Libraries Improvement Fund will be used to replace the existing mobile library with a smaller and more versatile van.”
  • Nottingham – City library marks 100 years of serving community – BBC. Meadows Library “The library, first opened on 11 March 1925, has stood the test of time and survived the threat of cuts to public services.” … “There’s a really special feeling about Meadows Library. There’s a fantastic community feel.”
    • Nottingham: Call for safety checks at library site with ‘dangerous paving’ – West Bridgford Wire. “Failing tiles on steps leading to a new library and supermarket in Nottingham have prompted a call for a health and safety investigation. Work was carried out on steps outside Sherwood Library and a Sainsbury’s store in Spondon Street in February, after tiles began to crack and break away. The problem has since been fixed, however a resident is calling for further investigation into the safety of the site.”
  • Nottinghamshire – New Library of Things offers help in ‘tough times’” – BBC. “The service will allow people to borrow household items, rather than books, such as carpet cleaners, sewing machines, and children’s party sets.” … “The project has received funding from the Beeston Civic Society and Broxtowe Borough Council to help with the purchase of items – totalling £1,500.”
  • Oldham – A new chapter for the Old Library – Oldham Council. “The exhibition is titled “New life in an old building” and is a celebration of the skilful restoration of this Victorian gem. As preparations continue to reopen the Old Library later in 2025, this exhibition acts as a taster of what is to come.”
  • Oxfordshire – Council’s home library service receives positive feedback from users – Oxford Mail. “The vast majority of people who use Oxfordshire County Council’s home library service are overwhelmingly pleased with the service they receive. This is according to feedback from a recent survey which was sent to 175 customers visited by library staff.”
  • Salford – Council issues statement on cuts to Salford’s libraries and leisure centres amid finance problems – Manchester Evening News. “Library and leisure centre staff in Salford will not be cut and opening hours will not be affected, despite the operator facing major financial problems, Salford council has said.” … “Salford City Council today agreed to bail out the company with a one-off payment of £350,000 to cover management costs this year, but more cash could be needed as soon as next year to the tune of £1.5m.”
  • Stockport – Vacancy: Neighbourhood Library Manager – Stockport Council. “Stockroom’s Library Manager will support the development of bold, ambitious and creative and inclusive Library offer at Stockroom. “
  • Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries row continues as petition hits 15,000 – Ipswich Star. Subscription paywall. “A show of defiance is set to place this weekend with protests against Suffolk County Council’s plans to bring the library service back in-house.” see also Suffolk Libraries row continues as petition hits 15,000 – East Anglian Daily Times. Subscription paywall, looks to be same article.
Suffolk – Chief Executive appeals to public to learn facts about Suffolk Libraries’ dismissal. see Suffolk Libraries’ Contract
  • Suffolk MP calls libraries takeover decision appalling – East Anglian Daily Times. “Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, MP for Suffolk Coastal, addressed Lucy Powell, leader of the House of Commons, during debates on Thursday and said Suffolk Libraries, the previous provider, had “saved” the service from cuts under the previous Tory government. She added the company, set up to run libraries after the council divested the service in 2012, had expanded the institution when similar facilities were closing down across the country.”. Councillor says ““I fail to see anything “appalling” in this outcome for Suffolk’s library service, which has also been supported by Unison and local residents who want certainty and security for frontline staff and maintaining access to 45 library sites and the mobile library fleet serving our local communities.”

Surprise ending of Suffolk Libraries contract

Editorial

The big news is this week is the shock decision of Suffolk Council not to renew the six-year contract of non-profit Suffolk Libraries. And I mean “shock”: the trust found out only 15 minutes before the public did and there was apparently no consultation with them or the many Friends groups beforehand.

So, what’s at play here? The libraries will again be part of the Council from 1 June, there are 45 libraries in the county, with 364 “frontline” posts and 56 others. Suffolk Libraries has been running the service since 2012 with no reductions in service with no increase, until last year, in initial council funding. Council funding was £5.9m in 2023/24, which has been increased to £6.6m for 2024/25 but Suffolk Libraries gained extra funding, and recorded an income of £9.9m according to its latest accounts for the year to the end of March 2024.

But also what’s at play is the viability of non-profits running public libraries in the UK. Including Suffolk, eight councils have returned libraries to the council fold since spinning them out since 2010: Falkirk, Flintshire, Merthyr Tydfil, Northamptonshire, the Library of Birmingham, Peterborough and Warrington. For single-council (ish) trusts, that leaves just a few including Devon’s Libraries Unlimited and York Explore (itself facing substantial cuts). Explore already looks a bit shaky. Libraries Unlimited must be feeling dismayed.

And as for Suffolk? Well, the situation is disputed. I think readers of my recent editorials will know my opinion of the Trust has changed but make up your own mind. Below, are the pros and cons (in no particular order) that have been quoted by everyone I’ve spotted for the move. You can read the article links in the special Suffolk session too.

For the move back to Council control

  • The belief that all public libraries should be run directly by the Council – Unison, Library Campaign
  • Council says Suffolk Libraries will reduce hours by 30% [Presumably to reach the lower budget provided by the Council compare with inflation? We don’t know – Ed.]
  • Council says 33% of to the Suffolk Libraries budget was at “head office” and suggest this is wasteful, with money to be saved by making some of these staff redundant.
  • The Council calls itself “safe hands” and casts doubt on the financial viability Suffolk Libraries.
  • Return to in-house means more of the library budget should be invested in frontline services
  • No libraries would close and there would be no reduction in opening hours.
  • A total of £200,000 will be invested in replacing Suffolk’s aging mobile libraries and a further £157,000 for new books and on replacing public computers. This was in addition to the standard budget.
  • Shorter-term proposal by SL would have breached procurement law.

Against the move back

  • Trust says volunteers may be less willing to work for the Council than a charity
  • Trust says decision will lead to loss of funding from external grants and fund-raising. Suffolk Libraries say that they have secured direct funding for several key projects including a long-term community arts programme and various other community and wellbeing services. “Hundreds of thousands of pounds and activities across Suffolk could be lost”
  • Suffolk Libraries raised it’s own funds: £400k of its own money through fundraising in 2023/24 and SCC’s ability to match this figure to support the service will be severely restricte; Over £500k of rate relief on library buildings will no longer be available; Tens of thousands of pounds of money raised by library friend’s groups (and their time and support) could be lost; The forfeiting of the contract for prison libraries that contribute over £100k profit every year, offsetting some of the back-office costs. This appears to comfortable be more than £1 million if fully added up.
  • Service costs £3m less than it did when SL took over (and the Council ran it) but offers more services.
  • Decision “will potentially cost taxpayers at least £1m in the first year and potentially more in the long term”
  • SL seen as innovative, “recognised as pioneers for change and are regarded as a leading force within the industry”
  • Changing back to Council control will be expensive.

Changes by local authority

National news

  • Can book fans turn the page on decline in reading? – BBC. “I can’t help but lament the closure of public libraries which have a very important community function.”
  • CIPFA library research reveals rising income not enough in face of cost pressures – Public Finance. “The cost of running libraries remains a “significant challenge” despite income from the service rising by almost a fifth over the past financial year, ” … “revenue from libraries – including grants, overdue charges and fees for reservations and photocopying – rose by 18% to £978.90 per 1,000 people in 2023-24. Library use also continued to rise, with in-person visits per 1,000 people increasing by 13.5% and online visits by almost 37%, while the number of books issued also went up by 0.5%. However, CIPFA warned that the rise in income would not be enough to address cost pressures on library services, with total expenditure increasing by 2% to £12,732 per 1,000 people.” … “The survey also detected a falling off in staffing levels, with the number of paid library employees falling by almost 1.7% per 1,000 people, although volunteer numbers rose by 7%.”
  • How public libraries break down barriers to digital inclusion – DCMS. “Public libraries play an important and inclusive role in making sure everyone has the equipment, skills and confidence required to access digital services which is recognised in the Plan.”
World Book Day is now accessible online through , Books2Door, until Sunday, 23rd of March. 
  • Libraries Connected submits evidence to Parliamentary inquiry into council funding – Libraries Connected. “Libraries Connected has submitted evidence to the Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) Committee’s inquiry looking at whether the local government finance system in England is fit for purpose. The evidence outlines the precarious state of local government finances, and the impact this is having on library services – including closures and cuts to opening hours, staff and book budgets. It argues that the current regime for identifying and responding to financial distress “incentivises short-term savings over long-term investment in communities”.”
  • New Literary Foundation announces awards for children’s authors – GLL. “The newly launched GLL Literary Foundation has selected 17 children’s authors from across the UK to receive bursary placements for 2025 worth up to £4,000 each.”
  • Public Libraries 2024: Netloan Survey Results – Lorensbergs. Concentrating on public access computers: “Councils are investing in the infrastructure with up to 40% of authorities planning a PC refresh in 2025-26″ … “PC use has remained constant in nearly 60% of libraries, with increases or decreases in approximately 20% of libraries in each case” … “Library footfall and/or event attendance are increasing in nearly 50% of libraries due to a range of factors including extra events, reopening refurbished sites, publicity, extended self-service hours, partnership services inclusion, and face-to-face support for council services”. 109 library authorities took part in the survey.
  • Second round of Microgrants announced – Libraries Connected. £1-5k. “The 12 successful projects include a pop-up library at a Traveller site in Bristol, a manga exhibition in Northumberland, singalong sessions in a rural Cornish community and a scheme bringing older people together to play carrom, a tabletop game popular throughout South Asia.”

Suffolk

“The Library Campaign as always taken the view that public libraries should be run directly by  local authorities in order to ensure accountability. So we welcome the news that the service is being brought back to where it should be. The detail of the failed negotiations to let the IFS carry on is beyond our pay grade so we await with interest the Council’s plans. They say they won’t close any libraries and will put money into book buying. They also claim that the IFS proposed cutting opening hours by 30% and there was concern about the cost of its head office, which it said equated to 33% of annual staffing costs.”

Library Campaign
  • Stop Suffolk County Council wrecking our fabulous local libraries – Change. “For the last 12 years our libraries have been successfully run by a charity with Suffolk County Council’s financial support funding just part of the service.  But they are now under threat following a proposed move by the Council. The charity has transformed our libraries into true community hubs offering a wide range of services, particularly relied on by families, children and some of the more vulnerable members of our community. Remarkably, the service now costs £3 million pounds less now than it did in 2011 whilst offering so much more to local people. ” 3822 signed at sign of checking.
  • Suffolk County Council to resume control of library service – East Anglian Daily Times.
  • Suffolk Libraries plans to ‘fight’ decision to bring libraries back under council control – Rayo.
  • Suffolk Libraries reaction to Suffolk County Council decision on future of the library service – Suffolk Libraries. ““We are incredibly shocked, disappointed and frustrated by this afternoon’s announcement by Suffolk County Council. It’s a bolt from the blue and in our opinion, it’s a staggeringly short-sighted decision. “Suffolk Libraries has done an amazing job of running the library service in Suffolk for 12 and a half years under very challenging circumstances.  We have successfully steered the charity to become a recognised pioneer for change within the library sector and we are now regarded as a leading force within the industry. We currently have one of the best run library services in the country which has saved millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money, increased the impact and value of libraries and ultimately made Suffolk a better place to live by offering residents access to a ground-breaking and diverse range of services and support. “Suffolk County Council’s decision will impact everyone in the county and indeed will send out worrying signals to the nation with regard to the future of libraries within the community. Even if you don’t use libraries, we believe the proposed change will be a very inefficient and costly process and the cost to the people of Suffolk is even higher. “We intend to fight this decision and will comment further once we’ve had a chance to fully digest the details from today’s briefing.””
  • Suffolk’s 45 libraries to remain open and see new investment as Suffolk County Council plans to take service back in house – Suffolk Council. “an attempt to secure an external provider for a new six-year contract (with the option to extend for up to a further six years) which had to be abandoned due to difficulties in aligning submissions with the service requirements and budgets. ” Open letter to staff. Open letter to the public.

“We appreciate that this may come as a surprise to some, but want to assure you that this is happening to protect our valuable community libraries and the wide-range of services they provide.”

Suffolk Council

International news

India – “Today, at 13, she has set up 19 free public libraries, and even caught the PM’s attention. Now, she’s gearing up to bring libraries to 57 metro stations in Hyderabad! “Start reading! It’ll sharpen your mind, imagination, and focus,” she says.”

Changes by local authority

“There’s already kids sitting on the floor to study most weekends at Brixton library. Anyone in favour of cuts should go and explain to them why it’s the right thing to do. We need an expanded library service, not a reduced one.”

Lambeth – Ben Rymer

£5.5m grant, Library of the Year shortlist, PhD in libraries and the normal mix of news

Editorial

The £5.5m announced by the Government to aid libraries is welcome but, basically, chickenfeed compared to the funding she announced for the Arts at the same time and, more seriously, the funding needed for the public library sector. Just one example, Lambeth this week is contemplating cutting it’s libraries by a further £1m. To reinstate just that one service to the level it was, even without this further cut, it would need around twice as much as that national grant.

Moreover, this will be not be a grand masterplan. Bids will be, as ever, effectively scattergun if looked at nationally and will inevitably result in lots of time wasted in eventually unsuccessful bids. It’ll also lead to the weird state of affairs where some library services will gain funding for some nice new shiny thing while simultaneously cutting basic services. So, why do it this way? Because of publicity. You see, each one of the successful bidders will gain positive media coverage. And, closer to home for Lisa Nandy, when asked questions in parliament, she will be able to list all these small individual grants, to better portray that the Government is actually doing things for the sector.

A far more positive publicity push can be seen in the shortlisting for the Library of the Year awards. There’s still some weirdness – some councils are happily bidding for one library while cutting others – but it gives a positive way of showing all the good things that the sector is able to be doing. Also positively, but unrelated, there’s a paid PhD up for grabs to survey the library sector since 2010. I’ve been doing this free all that time but I have had an insufficient time to do a good job. I hope whoever gets it can produce something really useful.

Locally, there’s a big cut in Enfield, with the extra twist that they’re looking to make millions back in property sales and maintenance savings. I’ve already mentioned Lambeth. Elsewhere in London, Sutton is touting that it has increased library opening hours at the same time as cutting costs by £400k. It has done this with staff-less technology, leading me to wonder what “library opening hours” actually means. But that’s a topic for another editorial. Moving away from the capital, things continue to look bad in Nottingham and Peterborough but at least the cuts in Moray have been reduced and it looks like the same is happening in Warwickshire. And Staffordshire is leading the good news leader-board this week by announcing £5m for library refurbishment.

Internationally, I’m loving the library publicity around “Ireland Reads Day” and finding similarities in Australia and News Zealand to what is happening here. But then there is the USA. Dear God, the USA. Makes me glad to be British.

Changes by local authority

National news

  • £10m grant for mill library conversion reinstated – BBC. “Funding to convert a Victorian mill in Leeds into a northern outpost of the British Library has been granted despite fears it had been withdrawn. The government has awarded £10m to the project to restore the Grade I-listed Temple Works in the Holbeck area of the city. Last year the Treasury said it was “minded to withdraw” from the scheme in a bid to make savings, but the money has now been confirmed.” see also Woman wins £7,500 after complaining British Library was too noisy to work in – Metro. “She argued that failing to do so clashed with sections of the Equality Act that ask employers to make accommodations for people with disabilities.”
  • All the Libraries in London – Webpage listing all the libraries, of all types, in London, marking which ones have closed.
  • Four libraries in the running for Library of the Year award 2025 – London News Online. “GLL’s South London nominees include St Paul’s Cray Library, in Mickleham Road, Orpington, Eltham Library, in Archery Road, Greenwich, Roehampton Library, in Danebury Avenue, Wandsworth and Wandsworth Town Library in Courthouse Way, Wandsworth.”
  • GLL’s Fantastic Five – GLL. “St Paul’s Cray Library – London Borough of Bromley; Eltham Library – Royal Borough of Greenwich; Roehampton Library – London Borough of Wandsworth; Wandsworth Town Library – London Borough of Wandsworth; Lye Library – Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council”
  • GLL Libraries win prestigious award – GLL. “GLL libraries in Bromley, Dudley, Greenwich, Lincolnshire and Wandsworth have been granted the ‘Technology Excellence in Libraries Award’ (TEiLA) by not-for-profit membership organisation BIC (Book Industries Communication). This accolade acknowledges the libraries’ efforts in using technology to improve customer service and reduce costs.”
  • Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham visits a Warm Welcome Space – Warm Welcome. “Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham, and broadcaster Gaby Roslin joined guests yesterday (12th February) at Longsight Library and Learning Centre in Manchester. The library is one of more than 5,000 Warm Welcome Spaces across the UK, offering a safe space to keep warm, make friends, and connect with their local community.”
  • The historic and special libraries in Greater Manchester that could soon be hailed as the best in the UK – Manchester Evening News.
  • Library cuts dropped by council as income improves – BBC. “Staffordshire County Council said it was investing an extra £5m into a number of libraries in its area over the next five years. Meanwhile Warwickshire County Council said it was scaling back planned cuts to services after a better than expected public health grant as well as income from business rates.” … “The council’s leaders are expected to ditch plans to reduce Sunday opening hours while scaling back a proposed expansion of a scheme to move more libraries into being taken on by their community.”
  • Library of the Year – BookSeller. List of finalists. “From digital literacy initiatives to inclusive community outreach programmes, these libraries have shown extraordinary creativity in adapting their services to reach new audiences while maintaining their core mission of fostering a love of reading. What particularly stands out is how these libraries have become true community hubs by working so collaboratively with local partners. “
  • Library survey reveals reasons for significant shift towards self-service technology – D-Tech (press release). “Of the 68 respondents, 79% have implemented self-service technology, rating its ease of use and integration with existing systems as its most valued features. One of the standout trends identified is the rising demand for 24/7 access to library services with 63% reporting this as the most important feature of library smart lockers. Smart lockers, allowing for around-the-clock collection and returns, have been used to give access to library resources outside of opening hours, and even offsite at a more accessible location. 
  • Nandy to announce millions in funding for museums, libraries and arts venues – My London. ” a new £270 million Arts Everywhere Fund to help organisations in urgent need of financial support” … “£5.5 million to improve libraries.”
  • Nationally powered, locally driven: The next chapter in library digital development: A look at the LibraryOn grants programme and its outcomes – LibraryOn. “In total, following panel decisions just under £1.5m was awarded across both rounds. Its strategic purpose was to increase access and usage by enhancing the online presence of public libraries through improvements and increasing discoverability to make it easier for people to digitally access services provided by libraries.”. 77 page report.
  • New PhD Studentship to investigate changes in library service in England – Kings College London. “Between 2010 and 2020 the number of service providers who have reportedly ceased the statutory provision of library services in their area has tripled. This change in the landscape of English libraries has attracted numerous news headlines but has not been researched academically. The closure of local authority libraries and the emergence of community-run libraries is acknowledged, but data remain scarce and disconnected.”
  • Thirty English councils granted exceptional financial support packages – Guardian. “A record 30 English local authorities have been granted effective “bailouts” enabling them to borrow money to avoid bankruptcy, as ministers advised them against selling off prized local assets such as historic buildings, parks and allotments. The councils, all of whom were experiencing “unmanageable” financial pressures, were given the green light by ministers to collectively borrow £1.5bn to plug significant budget gaps caused by underfunding and soaring demand for social care and other services.” … “Six councils who are in special measures after declaring effective bankruptcy in recent years – Birmingham, Croydon, Nottingham, Slough, Thurrock and Woking – have again been granted special financial help.” … “For the first time, the government has imposed conditions preventing councils granted EFS help from selling what it calls “community and heritage assets”, reflecting fears that desperate councils could embark on a fire sale of well loved parks, golf courses, regeneration land and artworks.”
  • Three south east London libraries shortlisted for Library of the Year Award – News Shopper. “Lewisham Library, Eltham Centre Library, and St Paul’s Cray Library are among the seven London finalists vying for the Library of the Year Award at The British Book Awards.”

International news

Canada – Animated video entices readers to visit library

Local news by authority

  • Aberdeenshire – Proposals for future delivery of library services in Aberdeenshire communities agreed – Aberdeenshire Council. “The plans will see some existing local arrangements continue, with some new community partnerships established, and the transfer of some buildings to local groups progressed. Opportunities to enhance provision with support from volunteers will also be explored.”
  • Birmingham – Last-gasp bid to save Birmingham libraries from cuts that would ‘worsen child poverty’ – Birmingham Live. “Campaigners have won the right to question every aspect of Birmingham City Council’s plan to downgrade and potentially close libraries across the city at public meeting”. Rebel and opposition councillors “have successfully combined to get the plans ‘called in’, meaning the leadership now has to justify its proposals at a public council meeting before they can go ahead.”
  • Bromley – Burnt Ash Library to reopen following refurbishment – Bromley Council. “Burnt Ash Library is the latest library to benefit as part of a refurbishment programme, with Beckenham Library also successfully re-opening last month. The upgrade work helps ensure that the borough’s libraries continue to be welcoming places, with the improvements also helping minimise future maintenance costs. The refurbishment work at Burnt Ash included installing new lighting, an accessible public toilet and a new heating system, while also creating an improved children’s library space.”
  • Buckinghamshire – Libraries to share hidden stories of disability – BBC. “An installation, writing workshops and dramatic performances, created by adults with disabilities, will be touring Buckinghamshire libraries this spring.”
Cambridgeshire – “Knitted Mobile Library scene beside The Mobile Library”
  • Cornwall – ‘Over capacity’ St Agnes library could be replaced – BBC. “St Agnes Parish Council took over running the library, in Trelawney Road, from Cornwall Council in 2019. A design and access statement, drawn up for the parish council by building consultancy Desmonde Associates, said the council found the building was “frequently over capacity” due to the area’s growing population. The statement said the council offices were “rapidly becoming unfit for purpose and unsafe as the building deteriorates”.” … “Library manager Andrew Ley said: “The building we are in, although a game-changer in 1997, is now hopelessly inadequate for our growing needs and the needs of the community we serve.”
  • Devon – Three Devon libraries up for national award – BBC. “Bideford Library, Braunton Library and Exeter Library are all 2025 South West finalists “
  • Dudley – Free talk at Sedgley Library shines spotlight on superstitions and their origins – Dudley News.
  • East Renfrewshire – New programme of events and activities taking place at libraries – Barrhead News. “The initiative, in partnership with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), aims to support the East Renfrewshire Clean Air campaign.”
  • Edinburgh – Edinburgh Libraries launch new recycling programme to promote sustainability and digital reuse – Edinburgh Council. “The service secured £23,000 in funding from the Public Library Improvement Fund, awarded by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), which supports innovative initiatives in areas such as digital upskilling, sustainability, and inclusivity. This funding will allow Edinburgh Libraries to collaborate with Edinburgh Remakery to introduce Tech Donation Boxes to 15 libraries, these boxes will provide Edinburgh residents with an easy, welcoming, and accessible way to donate their old devices. Donated tech devices will be repaired and reused when possible or responsibly recycled when necessary, contributing to a circular economy and reducing electronic waste.”
  • Enfield – This north London borough is closing seven libraries – Time Out. £500k cut. “The closures follow a city-wide trend. According to creative project All the Libraries in London, which tracks openings and closures, 120 libraries have been axed in the capital in the last 10 years. “. Seven libraries will close “Southgate Library, Winchmore Hill Library, , Bowes Library, Bullsmoor Library, Enfield Highway Library, Enfield Island Library, John Jackson Library, Southgate Library and Winchmore Hill Library” with £3.85 million income from property sales, “and save £4.5 million in maintenance costs over a 10-year period”. 
  • Essex – Librarians could wear body cameras to curb abuse – BBC. “Essex County Council said it was considering the action at Witham Library, where it recently hired a private security guard.” … “new doors were being installed at Colchester Library to combat anti-social behaviour.”
  • Guernsey – Guernsey’s Guille-Alles Library nominated for Library of the Year Award – ITV. “Guille-Alles Library is a finalist for the South West, going up against 34 other libraries across the British Isles.”. Guernsey’s Summer Reading Challenge had “unusually high impact”.
  • Inverclyde – Inverclyde Libraries introduces weekly quiet sessions – Greenock Telegraph. “These sessions include reduced noise levels, sensory tools, and friendly staff to support those who benefit from a quieter environment.”
  • Highlands – New mobile libraries for Highland communities – BBC. “Highland Council has purchased the vans for £332,000 and they will take to the roads across the north and west of the region this summer. These areas have been relying on a temporary delivery service.”
  • Hounslow – Hounslow’s libraries get a digital upgrade – Hounslow Council. “All 11 libraries will now take card payments and the Council’s online library collection has recently been improved. Residents will now find it easier to browse and borrow the 1.2 million eBook and audiobook collection. The improved online platform also boasts seven million books from across London, which residents can reserve and borrow. “
  • Lambeth – Lambeth Council proposes a £1million budget cut for Lambeth Libraries – Brixton Buzz. “Lambeth Unison have called for a protest outside the Cabinet meeting coming up on Monday 24th February.” – see also Lambeth Council Cabinet plans to slash library budget – leaked – Friends of Carnegie Library. “£1 million is almost 25% of the total library budget of £4.2 million, a figure which amazingly has not changed in 40 years. (With inflation this means the budget has already eroded by about two thirds since 1984.) This in the context of the Council’s £1.47 billion annual gross expenditure (2023-24).”
  • Liverpool – Family fun at Liverpool libraries for half term and beyond – Liverpool Express. “Programmed by Liverpool City Council’s Culture Liverpool team and made possible thanks to UK Shared Prosperity Funding, the free drop-in activities will kick off in half-term but continue through to March”
  • Monmouthshire – The View from Westminster with Catherine Fookes MP – Monmouthshire Beacon. “In Monmouth, I heard concerns from residents about the proposed relocation of Monmouth Library. I raised these with Monmouthshire County Council and organised a meeting with MCC and Friends of Monmouth Library to confirm the library will remain in Rolls Hall. Libraries are at the heart of our communities, and I will always fight for them.”
  • Moray – Moray libraries won’t close – but some could be moved into schools – Grampian Online. “The local authority met behind closed doors on Wednesday afternoon to discuss the future of seven of its 11 libraries – Fochabers, Lossiemouth, Burghead, Cullen, Dufftown, Keith and Tomintoul. It has subsequently released a statement saying that the proceeds raised from any sales would be ring-fenced for the library service.”
  • Nottingham – Library to close for £17k window replacement work – BBC. “A Nottingham library is set to close for a day for work to replace a large window. The damage to the second floor window of Nottingham Central Library was found on 16 August 2024 and work to make it safe was carried out the following day.”
    • Thousands spent on Sherwood Library as wait for opening drags on – Nottinghamshire Live. “The city council most recently said that all snagging issues have now been resolved, though did not give an exact timeline for the reopening. Councillor Sam Lux, the council’s executive member for culture, previously said: “It’s not going to happen overnight, but we are confident that Sherwood Library is going to open this year.””
  • Perthshire – Iconic Perthshire Library Inspires Contemporary Art Exhibition – Creative Scotland. “presents a site-specific visual art project: Reading Forms. Scotland’s first free public lending Library, Innerpeffray Library in Perthshire, is the location for this Creative Scotland-funded exhibition.”
  • Peterborough – Dementia centre tipped to move into library – BBC. “Plans to move Peterborough’s Dementia Resource Centre into Bretton Library moved a step closer to completion after the city’s council approved a change of use for the building. Library users and people working with those with dementia have raised concerns about the idea.” see also Library dementia centre idea jumps planning hurdle – BBC.
    • Street-cleaning and libraries staff reject pay offer – BBC. “About 80% of GMB Union members at Peterborough Limited, which provides services including street cleaning and libraries, turned down the latest offer. Union regional organiser Gordon White said the salary was less than the Real Living Wage, of £12.60 an hour, and members felt “unloved and unappreciated”.”

“The vote was close but the Council’s budget was passed with libraries now in a state of limbo and in addition Woodston Library, along with three others, remain on the Council’s community assets list of buildings for disposal. These are uncertain and unsettling times … There is already reduced access to books and computers along with minimal library opening hours in Peterborough … “Peterborough has one of the lowest literacy rates in the UK and is ranked the lowest for KS1 reading and with 16% of adults in the UK being functionally illiterate – this is not a time to be closing libraries nor is it a decision that inspires confidence for the City’s future.”

Official statement from the Friends of Woodston Library’s in response to Peterborough City Council’s Full Council Budget meeting
  • Reading – Rainbow Rescue to tour libraries in Reading, Berkshire – Reading Chronicle. “an interactive delight for children aged six and under”
  • Rutland – Ryhall, Rutland Residents Rally to Save Their Library – Oakham and Rutland News. “Ryhall residents are fighting to save their library, as Rutland County Council explores alternative options for library services in the east of the county.  A second drop-in session by the council’s Living Well team on Friday saw protestors create homemade banners and posters, many featuring handprints representing the children who use the facility.  The council had hoped to convert the current building into a new community facility, but rising costs have forced them to reconsider. The future of the library now hangs in the balance, and locals are determined to make their voices heard.”
  • St Helens – Anger at plans to sell off Rainford library building after closure – St Helens Star. “Shock, disappointment, and disgust are some of the words used to describe the reaction to the planned sale of a community library.” … “Following the news that Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust purchased the former Rainhill Library site earlier this month, there has been further upset as it was confirmed that Rainford and Billinge libraries will also be placed on the open market.”
  • Staffordshire – Investment plan for local libraries unveiled by county council – Lichfield Live. “Around £4million will be allocated to sites run directly by Staffordshire County Council – including the facility at Burntwood – while a £1million fund is being made available for 27 community managed libraries, such as the one at Shenstone. The money will be spent on refurbishing and improving public areas.”
  • Live music, guest sports journalists and free children’s books, all at Burton library – Staffordshire Council. “Live music, an audience with popular sports journalists and a free book give away for World Book Day are some of the events running at the library.”
  • Suffolk – Library undergoes biggest refurbishment since 2010 – East Anglian Daily Times. “A major refurbishment project is underway at Bury St Edmunds Library, the largest since 2010. The work, which started this month, is part of a significant initiative to improve the library’s layout and interior. The project is funded by Section 106 developer contributions via Suffolk County Council. The first phase of the project will focus on the ground floor, including the foyer area, children’s library, and the county council family hub.”
  • Sutton – Sutton Council saves £400,000 by extending library hours – Sutton Council. “Yes, you read that right. All eight of Sutton’s libraries are now open 8am to 9pm six days a week (9am to 6pm on Sundays). There are now over 80 community groups – ranging from Tai Chi and calligraphy classes to dementia support, chair yoga, Scrabble and reading groups – all making full use of the spaces and extended opening hours in Sutton’s Libraries. ” … “There was a clear choice last year: we could do what other councils were doing, close our libraries and sell off the buildings; or we could take the brave and bold choice to invest in self-access technology. It has been an outstanding success. All our libraries remain open and are being used more than ever. “
  • Warwickshire – Libraries in Warwickshire chosen as finalists for Library of the Year – Rugby Observer. “finalists for Library of the Year at The British Book Awards 2025.” … “Rugby, Stratford and Alcester libraries are among 36 finalists”
  • West Northamptonshire – This Spring, grow your potential in one of Northamptonshire’s Libraries – West Northamptonshire Council. List of services.
  • West Sussex – Library celebrates a century at the heart of West Sussex – Sussex World.
  • Wirral – ‘Our money is going into a black hole the council used to fill’ – Liverpool Echo. “A community group feels they’re “being set up to fail,” council staff are wondering whether to leave before they’re “forced out,” and potential strike action looms as Wirral Council prepares to cut £25m from its budget.” … ““You can look at the library service which has been whittled down over the years. It makes it difficult for the staff to have confidence that there’s an investment, I don’t mean wholly financial, to provide a quality library service for the borough.””
  • Wokingham – Find the joy of reading aloud – at two libraries – Wokingham Today. “A shared reading group that launched last year in the borough was so successful that a second group was needed.”
  • York – Calls for certainty over York library services ahead of cuts – Press. “Opposition councillors have called for certainty over the future of York library services ahead of planned £600,000 cuts which the council’s deputy leader has defended as necessary.” … “It comes after £300,000 in cuts due to be made this financial year to York Explore’s contract to run libraries were delayed for 2025-6. It means the cuts will have to be made in one year rather than over two as originally planned.”

The Cuts Cycle and Hurricane Trump

Editorial

There’s a classic progression that happens when a council announces library service cuts:

  1. Cuts are announced, normally involving lots of library closures
  2. Protests against these cuts occur
  3. Council reduces cuts, often changing closures to being run by volunteers or reductions in hours.
  4. Cuts happen, with sometimes the protesters being co-opted as volunteers.

And, sadly, if you have stuck around the library scene long enough, as I have, then you see the cycle repeating. So, this week, Aberdeenshire is at (3); Perth & Kinross, Rutland, Coventry and Newport is at (2); Clackmannanshire is at (1, turning into 2). Meanwhile, Birmingham appears to be at (3) but when you look, the actual budgetary reduction is the same as before so basically no reductions have been made other than in their manner. The city has gone through the cycle a few times before so the heady days of the Library of Birmingham opening a decade ago appears to be well and truly gone. It’s notable as well that if a Scottish library cut is announced then the public protest, especially national Scottish protest, appears to be higher than South of the border. And heaven knows what’s going on in North Northamptonshire. This was one of the two councils created from the wreckage of Northamptonshire, and it looks like there’s still more destruction happening.

Right, now the good news. Thurrock has increased its opening hours due to Freeport funding, and Arts Council England funding is kicking in with a few places being currently refurbished. I’m also liking the report on eBooks, although its conclusions appear fairly self-evident. Anyone who has had to consider whether to buy a library eAudiobook or eBook for £50 or even £70 will know how painful digital lending is and it needs to improve, and this report will hopefully help do that.

Being less parochial, it’s sad to learn about the reduction in public library provision in Denmark but good to hear about things in Malaysia and to salivate over pictures of Swiss libraries. Hurricane Trump has started to hit US public libraries, with fears national funding will be stopped and what appears to be a purely revenge-driven sacking of the chief of National Archives. I also noticed a week ago that state cases against attempts to censor public library books have been entirely dropped. The storm is still growing there and we are likely to see more wreckage for quite a while to come.

Changes by local authority

National news

  • In a world of overwhelming choice, I love the whittled-down book selection at my local street library – Guardian. “the library is the same – the masses of books too frequently inspires inertia” but a street library reduces choice and inertia. “I still buy the latest releases; I still use my library card. But there is something nice in the quietness of the local little library”
  • Invest in libraries, invest in communities: the cost of cuts is too high – North Edinburgh News. Open letter from Alison Nolan, chief executive officer of the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC). “Did you know that over the past decade, 53 public libraries across Scotland have closed their doors for good – without replacement?” … “No other community asset can deliver the vast economic and social benefits that a thriving public library service can, and so we would urge decision-makers to prioritise investment in their communities.” see also Library chief in plea to prevent council cuts` – We Love Stornoway.
  • The National Archives to establish new hub for community-led research in the cultural heritage sector – Wired Gov. “This important work will connect our museums, archives, libraries and galleries more closely to the communities around them. Thanks to this grant from the AHRC, we’ll be able to support outreach work, so that more people are able to enjoy our cultural history.””
  • Report: cheaper ebooks for libraries could “revolutionise the promotion of reading” – Libraries Connected. Arts Council England funded report. Increasing eBook lending increases access to reading [fairly obviously – Ed.], prolific book borrowers are also prolific book buyers. Call for more flexible licensing to allow eborrowing for book groups, author talks and literary festivals. Just 7% of registered library users are ebook borrowers.
  • Val McDermid praises inspirational libraries ahead of campaign launch – National. “The author, who is best known for her Wire In The Blood series and Karen Pirie novels, was visiting the library in Kirkcaldy Galleries ahead of the launch of the Love Libraries campaign. The campaign, which begins on February 14 and runs until October, is designed to encourage more people to join libraries and make use of what they have to offer, and focuses on the benefits librarians bring to communities throughout the country.”

International news

  • Denmark – The necessary nearness – an ode to bookmobiles – Christian Lauersen. A look at Danish mobile libraries. ” Currently, there are 15 bookmobiles in Denmark, down from 52 in 2000. The same trend can be seen in the number of library branches, where there were just over 1,000 branches in the 1980s, a number that Statistics Denmark reports has dropped to 420 in 2023.” … “in 2009, there were just over 13,000 weekly opening hours with staffed personnel, but this number had dropped to 9,400 weekly hours by 2023.”
    • Next Library Pilot Projects – The Changemaker Award 2025 – Next Library. “We’re seeking projects that ignite innovation and bring the Next Library concept to life between events. Whether it’s a brand-new idea or something you’ve already been experimenting with, it should have the potential to scale and inspire change in other libraries. Your idea should focus on practical, actionable change with a meaningful impact on your library’s community—something that can also be scaled or replicated across countries.”
  • Malaysia – Public libraries now modern knowledge hubs – Sun. “Many centres feature cafes, lounges, activity spaces, auditoriums, gyms and jogging tracks: Librarians Association”
  • Pakistan – Libraries fail to promote literary engagement – Express Tribune. “According to sources of the Express Tribune, out of 41 districts in Punjab, just 11 libraries are scattered across seven districts including Lahore, Sheikhupura, Okara, Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh and Bahawalpur alongside 100 e-libraries.”
  • Switzerland – The most beautiful libraries in Switzerland – Swiss Info. “Libraries are thriving in Switzerland: the GGG City Library in Basel recorded over two million loans last year.” Those shown appear not to be public libraries but are rather nice.
  • USA – National Library Lovers Month is a call to action by all Americans who value freedom – Davidson Local. “he Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), an independent federal agency that is a primary funder for 123,000 public libraries and 35,000 museums in all 50 states and U.S.territories, has been called “unessential” by our current administration, and is threatened with elimination or with far-reaching cuts to staff, services, and funding sources.” … “Libraries are also under threat by organizations, such as Moms for Liberty (M4L), a well- funded organization bent on removing books and materials they consider unacceptable” … “I still love my books. But these days, loving the library means speaking out, making certain our leaders understand that the heartbeat of our American freedoms is our ability to learn, to know, to explore.”
  • Barnes & Noble will open 60 new bookstores in 2025, breaking last year’s record as bookstore revival ramps up – Fast Company. “2025 marks a new era for Barnes & Noble and other bookstores thanks to a few factors, including digital fatigue, TikTok’s #BookTok, the loneliness epidemic, and a rise in so-called third spaces”
  • Trump dismisses head of the National Archives – NBC. “President Donald Trump dismissed the head of the National Archives, a White House official said Friday night, following through on a vow last month to change the leadership atop the agency, which was involved in the criminal case that had accused Trump of mishandling classified documents.” Colleen Shogan says ““This evening, President Trump fired me. No cause or reason was cited.”. Archives had provided some documents to lawyers in cases against Trump.

Local news by authority

“It’s now more than seven months since there was a fire at Oundle’s public library and the building only reopened to offer a reduced service on 30 September after there had been quite a public outcry at the delay. All these months later and still there is no sign of that situation changing because the building still has no IT. This means: No computers are available for customers to access the internet; No tablets for visitors to use to access e-library services (although this seems to be a county-wide issue now); Staff working on small and inadequate laptop computers; No self-service units for customers to easily borrow or return books.

Last year’s fire (12 July 2024) was originally said to have started in the IT cabinet in the staff room and the room’s contents were destroyed. The building’s electricity and heating system have been repaired but the work to restore the staff room cannot happen until someone decides where and how the IT will be installed. It’s a Catch-22 situation and until decisions are made and expenditure is approved the public library remains in limbo, only able to provide a partial service.

Oundle Library serves a large rural area across North Northants, yet the Library Service and North Northamptonshire Council expect residents to travel to Corby or Kettering to access computer services. And despite customers asking time and again about when the IT will be restored at the library, no-one is prepared to give a date or even tell people what progress is being made. The lack of information and engagement with residents is startling, and many people are beginning to wonder (again) if this is a signal that the library will never reopen to offer a full service or that this is a prelude to its opening hours being reduced. What makes the situation worse is that the leader of North Northants Council, Jason Smithers, is the councillor for Oundle Ward.”

North Northamptonshire – Email received
  • North Tyneside – World Book Day 2025: Hundreds of Free Books on offer for Children in North Tyneside – North Tyneside Council. “North Shields and Wallsend Community Hubs and Libraries will be official token exchange hubs, giving away hundreds of books to encourage children to read.” … “To add to the celebrations, North Shields Library will host a special ‘meet the author’ event for local schools, featuring Jack Jackman, author of Maisie vs Antarctica.”
  • Northern Ireland – Sight and hearing information points launched at libraries across Mid Ulster Council area – Northern Ireland World. Deafblind UK and Libraries NI “are introducing dedicated information points in libraries across Mid Ulster, linking people living with sensory loss to vital resources and guidance.”
  • Perth and Kinross – John Swinney backs fight to save Perthshire libraries – Courier. “The First Minister says SNP-run Perth and Kinross Council could use additional Holyrood funding to invest in closure-threatened libraries.” … “The First Minister said he “stands firmly” with the Save Our Rural Libraries campaigners. And he is suggesting Perth and Kinross Council use the funding boost it’s about to receive from the Scottish Government to invest in library services.”
  • Peterborough – Street-cleaning and libraries staff reject pay offer – BBC. “About 80% of GMB Union members at Peterborough Limited, which provides services including street cleaning and libraries, turned down the latest offer. Union regional organiser Gordon White said the salary was less than the Real Living Wage, of £12.60 an hour, and members felt “unloved and unappreciated”.” … “The company is wholly owned by the council and its services also include museums and leisure centres.”
    • Library group calls on council to bring in experts – BBC. “the Friends of Woodston Library group said the council did not have the “resources or experience” to carry out the assessment in house.” … “Woodston Library and others locations remain on the council’s community assets review, which lists buildings that could be closed, sold or repurposed.”
    • Plans to cut library size recommended for approval – BBC. “Plans to cut the size of a library so it can double as a dementia resource centre have been recommended for approval. Peterborough City Council wants to convert Bretton Library in the Cresset Centre to accommodate the facility, which needs a base as the authority is selling its current building. Campaigners have said the library would no longer be fit for purpose if its floor space is reduced.”

Some folk can’t be satisfied

Editorial

Once upon a time I was very hesitant about library trusts. This was back in the early 2010s when deep cuts led councils to experiment with many different types of library delivery. But, like (it or not) volunteer libraries, and often, unlike leisure-and-libraries-trusts, library trusts have proved resilient. And thay have also proved remarkably entrepreneurial and innovative. Suffolk is one of these and I have been quietly impressed for the last decade on the sheer amount of events and services that they have launched. They have also been very active in fund-raising and are, as one observer notes below, offering an excellent service at a cheaper rate than the council was previously able to do.

It is with surprise, and some anger, then, to see that Suffolk Council are hesitating about maintaining them, apparently because even Suffolk Libraries are not cheap enough. Ironically, the Council is run by Conservatives who would have been delighted back in 2010 to see how successful a trust could be. But that seems no longer enough. It looks like they want to pay even less for libraries, presumably fancying the idea of turning them volunteer instead and thus delivering a warning to everyone that some councillors will want you to bend so far to their demands that you break your back.

In other news, there are two councils reducing the number of closures previously announced, one (Havering) going through with closures despite public outcry and two more announcing new cuts. In good news, it’s good to see that the practice fancy dress swaps to time in with World Book Day is spreading. There’s also a scratch-card book bingo and one council combining Valentines day with a “love” for nature. All of the latter showing that the imagination of public library staff is wide and reasonably irrepressible. I love it.

Changes by local authority

National news

  • Fight to save Scotland’s libraries taken to Holyrood – Morning Star. “The services have come under increasing pressure over the last decade as councils scramble to balance their budgets, prompting Green MSP Mark Ruskell to take a motion to Holyrood calling on the “Scottish government to help protect the future of Scotland’s libraries. Rallying outside ahead of the debate on Wednesday, Laura Anne Collier of Friends of Scotland’s Libraries said: “Campaigners from across the country have come together in solidarity to call for a serious national conversation about the vital role libraries play in the future of communities.”
  • Libraries must remain the ‘beating heart’ of Scottish communities – Scottish Greens. ““Libraries are not only for borrowing books. They are the beating heart of our communities. They are vital, life-enhancing spaces where opportunities for learning, connection and support take place.”
  • The power of nine: Creating a community of digital practice in library services – Arts Professional. “Public libraries are unique public spaces. They’re perfect venues to test the idea that digital technology and creative media can enrich the lives of individuals and communities.” … ” we supported Coventry in delivering a range of digital experiences and training sessions, which included VR content, community co-creation projects and staff skills development.”
  • Report: cheaper ebooks for libraries could “revolutionise the promotion of reading” – Libraries Connected. “Arts Council England-funded research finds ebook lending increases access to reading. Data shows prolific borrowers are also heavy book buyers. Call for more flexible licensing to allow eborrowing for book groups, author talks and literary festivals”
  • Scotsman Letters: Culture Secretary could do much to save our libraries – Scotsman. “Did I miss SNP Culture Secretary Angus Robertson’s support for your sister paper Scotland on Sunday’s “Save our Libraries” campaign launched in August 2021? Surely he must accept that years of the SNP council tax freezes have made life exceedingly difficult for councils trying to provide good local services. Sadly, the Save our Libraries campaign ran during the time of that “great reader” Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister …”
  • Women’s Prize for Fiction partners with retailers and libraries to mark its 30th anniversary – BookSeller. “The Women’s Prize Trust will be expanding engagement opportunities for readers through libraries, under the new brand name “Readers’ Room”, which is supported by marketing leader Syl Saller CBE. Working with Libraries Connected, the prize will share free printed POS to boost engagement with the 562 backlist titles in the Women’s Prize library and the 2025 Women’s Prize for Fiction and Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction shortlists. Digital POS will be available for the longlist announcements.  ”

International news

Grimly realistic filming of public libraries compilation from “Parks and Recreation”

Local news by authority