Archive for October, 2021

Editorial

There’s some scary news for libraries this week as four library services announce consultations. These tend to include only cuts as options so it’s fairly clear where the direction of intended travel is. The cuts look to be particular severe in Gateshead with a 2010-like 5 out of 8 being under threat. On the other hand, the whole of the island of Ireland is now fines-free, with Northern Ireland no longer forcing its customers to pay for not being able to return theirs books on time, following the example of the Republic of Ireland two years ago.

Changes by authority

• Dorset – Consultation.
• Gateshead – 5 out of 8 libraries (Chopwell, Crawcrook, Leam Lane, Pelaw and Wrekenton) may become volunteer.
• Hartlepool – Seaton Library may close, amongst other changes.
• Slough – Consultation – Langley and Cippenham may close, may have reduced services at Curve and Britwell.

National news

• 10 November – What’s new? What’s next? – Library Campaign. 7.30pm to 9pm, Wednesday 10 November, webinar. “Here’s your chance to catch up on all the news you need to know. The Library Campaign aims to give library users and Friends a complete one-stop update, via Zoom. Plus a chance to discuss it all. A lot has happened in public libraries since our last Zoom in May. More is due to happen in the next few weeks.”
• Children will be forced to do homework in cafes and libraries due to rising energy bills at home, experts fear – I News. “Isobel Hunter, chief executive of Libraries Connected, said public libraries are “gearing up to do much more targeted work with people suffering from destitution… because they know rates of people struggling in their communities have grown”. “
• Embrace it, Design It, Build it: Information Professionals at the heart of Digital Transformation – CILIP. 3 and 4 November, webinar. “Technology is transforming every point in the supply-chain of knowledge and information – from content creation to research, selection to data analytics. These technologies depend entirely on the availability of high-quality, well-structured information, data and metadata to function.”
• Freedom of information and library stats – Library data blog. “Everyone knows this is broken. Leadership organisations are on board, but none have direct responsibility for data. Many services don’t complete data because they can’t afford to receive the commercial reports. Plus the reports are marketed around benchmarking and performance management, which isn’t what library services need. Services need to be able to provide data in the knowledge that it will be widely used and shared for insight, and that they’ll also receive free access to other libraries’ data. Urgent change is needed, ideally in time for 2021/2022 data.”
• Haig, Whitty and McKay awarded CILIP honorary fellowships – BookSeller. “Author Matt Haig, chief medical officer professor Chris Whitty and librarian Amy McKay have been awarded CILIP honorary fellowships for 2021. The trio were described by the UK’s library and information association as “three very different individuals recognised for their contribution to this sector in the face of unprecedented global challenges”. “. Nick Poole says ““This year’s honorary fellows all demonstrate in different ways the powerful role our sector can play in health and social care. Whether it is leveraging evidence to support informed decision-making in the NHS and public health or exploring the role of reading in building empathy and improving mental health – the pandemic has truly shown the power of libraries as the ‘hospital of the soul’.””
• Northumbria research team celebrate library project award win – Northumbria University. “The Death Positive Library Project unites libraries in Newcastle, Kirklees in Yorkshire and Redbridge in London, with a research team from Northumbria University made up of Dr Stacey Pitsillides in the School of Design and Dr Claire Nally in the Department of Humanities.”
• Reading Agency project to bring latest VR technology to 15 libraries – BookSeller. “Called StoryTrails, the project is led by creative producer Professor David Olusoga and will include 15 libraries across the UK and Northern Ireland. It will involve speaking to members of the local communities gathering forgotten and unheard stories, before they are brought to life with the latest technology. StoryTrails will be in libraries from early 2022 and will return again in the summer, offering two-day residencies in each location which will be free for the public to attend. Starting in July 2022, the tour will visit Omagh, Dundee, Dumfries, Blackpool, Bradford, Sheffield, Lincoln, Wolverhampton, Swansea, Newport, Bristol, Swindon and Slough, before ending in the London boroughs of Lambeth and Lewisham in September.   “
• Rise by Maliha Abidi: competition resources – Reading Agency. “This pack contains an PDF sampler of the book “Rise” by Maliha Abidi and a promotional poster for a competition inspired by the book.”
• The U.K.’s Latest Budget Gives Arts Organizations an Impressive-Sounding $1.2 Billion—But It’s Actually Less Than Last Year – Artnet. ” This money is also for libraries, many of which have closed due to austerity policies that predate the pandemic.”

International news

• Singapore – NLB announces its blueprint to reimagine and transform libraries and archives for the future – Library Learning Space.
• USA – Defiant library refuses to remove LGBT+ books despite pressure from local idiots – Yahoo News. “The Campbell County Library has faced outcry from angry locals complaining that the materials in certain books are “disgusting” and “inappropriate for children”. Prosecutors even considered filing criminal “obscenity” characters against the public librarians over the decision to keep books about sex and LGBT+ issues on shelves.”
  • I Set Out to Build the Next Library of Alexandria. Now I Wonder: Will There Be Libraries in 25 Years? – Time. “When I started the Internet Archive 25 years ago, I focused our non-profit library on digital collections: preserving web pages, archiving television news, and digitizing books. The Internet Archive was seen as innovative and unusual. Now all libraries are increasingly electronic, and necessarily so. To fight disinformation, to serve readers during the pandemic, and to be relevant to 21st-century learners, libraries must become digital.”
  • Sirsi Connections – Conference. 2 to 4 November. “Connections—a free, online conference open to all libraries worldwide —provides opportunities for educational and professional development within time and budgetary constraints. Everyone in your library is invited to attend, including support staff, system admins, executives, directors, and anyone else at your library.”

Local news by authority

• Cambridgeshire – Libraries in March and Wisbech to stock Covid-19 rapid testing kits – Fenland Citizen. “From Monday, home testing kits will be available from March and Wisbech libraries as part of a four-week trial.” [Not sure why a trial is needed – home test kits have been successfully given out in many other council libraries for months – Ed.]
• Cheshire East – Children’s reading challenge encourages hundreds of youngsters to join local libraries – Cheshire East Council. “More than 172,350 physical and digital items were borrowed and 1,685 children became library members. A total of 4,390 young people took part with an additional 326 youngsters participating online.” … “The story walks were more like a treasure hunt where children needed to search for posters of famous book characters and read excerpts of text and respond to questions on their activity sheets. “
• Dorset – Public consultation over the future of Dorset libraries after drop in visitor numbers – Dorset Echo. “It comes after figures showed the number of visitors to Dorset Council libraries during 2020/21 went down by 93 per cent from the previous year – with 1,216,132 visitors recorded in 2019/20 falling to just 83,078 the following year. This was due to significant periods during the Covid-19 pandemic when the council’s library buildings were closed, followed by phased re-opening of libraries, with only limited services available.”
• Gateshead – Gateshead residents invited to share views on proposed changes to library service – Gateshead Council. “We are encouraging residents to help shape the future of their local library service by taking part in a public consultation on proposed changes. Under the new proposals, some library buildings would be transformed into community spaces that bring together key council services, voluntary and community organisations and neighbourhood groups.”
• Hammersmith and Fulham – Case Study: Engagement that Glows – Reflections on running public engagement in Hammersmith and Fulham – Libraries Week. ” have been running public engagement sessions in partnership with Imperial College.  These sessions bring research scientists together with community groups”
• Hampshire – Hythe library reopens for half-term holiday eight days after car ploughed through its wall – Advertiser and Times. “… an Audi’s two occupants escaped serious injury after it ploughed through one of the walls shortly after 11am on Sunday, scattering shelves, books and chairs. Despite managing to get themselves out of the vehicle, they were trapped inside the locked building and had to be rescued by firefighters.”
• Hartlepool – ‘We must really fight’ to keep Hartlepool library ahead of talks over its future – Hartlepool Mail. “According to council reports, the Seaton library building is in need of an estimated £220,000 of investment and renovation.”
• Isle of Man – Prizes handed out after summer reading challenge concludes – IOM Today. “craft competition and book reviews”
• Leicester – Job seekers can now find help at more Leicester libraries – Leicester Mercury. “Job seeker support has expanded to cover more Leicester neighbourhoods, after three more libraries joined forces with Jobcentre Plus. St Matthews Centre, New Parks Centre and Highfields Library have joined the list of libraries in the city which offer services to those looking to get back into work, Leicester City Council has announced.”
• Northern Ireland – Anne Hailes: The joy of visiting the library and fond memories of Brendan Kennelly – Irish News. “”The fine was a barrier in the past, people were afraid they might have built up a huge fine. Libraries have changed so much in the recent past, the image of the stern librarian has gone and the 49 public libraries in Northern Ireland are places to meet, learn but also to chat, no longer solitary places where you’re afraid to cough out loud and although there are quiet places to read and study there is plenty of activity as well.””
  • Library fines to be removed – Hargey – Northern Ireland Government. ““Fines, particularly where they accumulate over time, are more likely to impact vulnerable people, including those on lower incomes. This positive move paves the way for customers who have been anxious about overdue fines to return to libraries and avail of the many services they provide.””
• Moray – Moray libraries return to in-person events for Book Week Scotland – Northern Scot.
• Nottingham – Nottingham library £10m refit opening date question mark – BBC. “An opening date for Nottingham’s new Central Library has still not been confirmed, despite the council saying it is “one of its biggest priorities”. The library is part of the new Broadmarsh car park and was originally due to be up and running this year. But money from the sale of the old city centre site has not been confirmed.” A date of 2023 had been proposed but this week the council missed out on funding for the wider Broadmarsh area, including the £10m library refit.”
• Nottingham City Council loses out on £20m bid to complete Broadmarsh shopping centre – East Midlands Business Link. “The Government announced 109 ‘Levelling Up’ bids had been successful following the Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s Budget announcement on Wednesday (October 27) but the £20m needed by Nottingham City Council to demolish the Broadmarsh site, and to help fit out the new Central Library was denied.”
• Richmond – Richmond Literature Festival welcomes library lovers – SW Londoner. “The Library ranks number one in the UK for the number of book loans per 1000 people, and has one of the oldest lending libraries in London, making it the ideal place for book lovers.”
• Slough – Libraries Consultation – Slough Council. “his consultation is about proposed changes to Slough libraries statutory services delivered through The Curve, Britwell, Cippenham and Langley libraries, and access to online services.” Langley and Cippenham may close, may have reduced services at Curve and Britwell.
• Southwark – Una Marson: Southwark names new Walworth Library after pioneering black broadcaster and writer – Southwark News. “The new library will be in Walworth, on the north side of the Old Kent Road. It will open in spring next year. This news comes years after a Blue Plaque was unveiled for Una in Southwark,  a scheme run by the News, Southwark Heritage Association and the council.”
• Staffordshire – New Young Poet Laureate chosen for Staffordshire – In Your Area. “The Year 11 pupil from Sir Thomas Boughey Academy in Newcastle-under-Lyme was appointed to the role at a special poetry event organised by Staffordshire County Council’s Libraries service and WORD Stafford. The event was held in Stafford library on Thursday, October.”
• Warrington – Over 900 children take part in annual Summer Reading Challenge – Warrington Worldwide. “this year 934 children too part in the challenge”. Compared to 2009 who took part in 2019.
• Wirral – Four more Wirral libraries to reopen this week – Wirral Globe. “Irby, Pensby, St James and Wallasey Village will open their doors on Thursday and Friday.”
• Worcestershire – Tricks and treats this Halloween with Wythall Library – Redditch Standard.

Editorial

Another quiet week, with the sound of Covid recovery broken only by the announcement of cuts in one service – they’re going to happen, they do not know the precise details. On the plus side, there’s a lovely short programme on reading, with lots of library references, from the BBC. If one is interested in what is going on internationally, and I feel we all should be, we can read about what’s going on in the USA and be grateful that, at least. we don’t work in libraries there. Oh boy, if we thought our society was divisive, we ain’t got nothing on the Americans. Finally, I’d like to pay tribute to #uklibchat, which has been providing a superb platform for people to share their professional experiences and thoughts for a decade. Well done to all those involved. And thank you.

Changes by local authority

• Slough – Consultation on cuts. Various options including closing two libraries to be considered.

National news

• Action Counters Terrorism for UK Libraries – Libraries Connected. London, Tuesday 2 November, 10am to 4pm. “In partnership with Libraries Connected, the National Counter Terrorism and Security Office (NaCTSO) will be delivering an ACT Corporate day at New Scotland Yard for public library services throughout the UK.”
• Angela Rayner Points Out A Very Obvious Problem With Nadine Dorries’ Endorsement Of Libraries – Yahoo News. “Rayner, Labour’s deputy leader, noted that hundreds of libraries have closed since the Conservatives were voted into power back in 2010, after the newly appointed culture secretary Dorries endorsed them on Sunday. Dorries tweeted: “It doesn’t matter where you’re from – a library card is a ticket to anywhere in the world.”
• CILIP’s Skills for Leadership – Manage, Motivate and Influence – CILIP. 28 and 29 October, webinars.
• A fond farewell to #uklibchat – UKLibChat. “We have made a decision to say goodbye to #uklibchat and end on a high with our 10 year anniversary. We will be hosting two last chats and will close the doors at the end of 2021. As we do so, we wanted to give people an opportunity to share what they’ve appreciated and look back on our history a little.”

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what plans they have to introduce loan schemes at libraries for electronic devices to encourage citizens to become more digitally capable. Lord Taylor of Warwick

… Whilst this is not a matter for the department to require, we understand that the provision of portable devices to lend is something library services are increasingly delivering. We know that at least a quarter of library services in England already provide portable electronic devices for loan, generally targeted to those more likely to be digitally disadvantaged. ​​I learned about an example of this at Manchester Central Library in my visit during Libraries Week. Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay.

Libraries: Electronic Equipment – DCMS written question

• Inside Culture: How We Read – BBC iPlayer. Takes a good look at how people read, including many references to libraries. “In Edinburgh, author Ian Rankin gives voice to the words of Scotland’s secret book sculptor, whose intricate artworks, created from the pages of novels, were made in support of libraries, books, words and ideas. ” Liz Lochhead says ” if a community has a public library then it perceives itself as having some worth in the eyes of others “
• Libraries and the environment – Library data blog. “How could digital waste apply to library activities?” amongst other things.
• New book celebrates Wales 34 Carnegie libraries – National. “In his book, Griffiths also repeatedly makes comparisons between “church and chapel buildings in Wales” and Carnegie libraries, which were “built close to the heart of their communities, acting as community centres and meeting places… freely available havens for quiet contemplation or self-improvement”. If the cultural and social parallels between chapel and library are clear from this description, the book’s many illustrations also serve to underline architectural similarities.”
• Working Internationally for Libraries – CILIP. Full project report. ” the project focused on English public libraries to develop a programme of activities including grants for international collaboration projects and an international conference that featured ideas and inspiration from across the world.”

International news

• USA – Hawaii Libraries Face Patron Pushback While Upholding Vaccination Mandate – Library Journal. ” an executive order requiring all state facilities, including libraries, to require proof of vaccine or a negative COVID-19 test for visitors 12 or older to enter. Since the mandate took effect on September 13, library employees throughout Hawaii have been contending with patron reactions ranging from gratitude to anger—including hurled library cards, vandalized cars, and a lot of frustration.”
  • Prosecutors In Wyoming Considering Charging Librarians For Stocking Books – Huff Post. “Prosecutors in Wyoming are evaluating whether to file criminal charges against officials at a public library for stocking books some say are obscene in sections for children and teenagers. For weeks, Campbell County Public Library officials have been facing a local outcry over the books and for scheduling a transgender magician to perform for youngsters, an act canceled amid threats against the magician and library staff.”
• USA / New Zealand – From New Zealand to Gardiner: City hires new library director with experience all over the world – Central Maine.

Local news by authority

• Brent – Former council leader thanks Brent library campaigners on 10th anniversary of closures – Kilburn Times. “Ten years ago six highly valued community libraries in Brent were closed by Brent Council. Paul Lorber, former Liberal Democrat council leader and library campaigner has paid tribute to the “hundreds of local volunteers” who have maintained the closed spaces and brought them back to the community. “
• Gloucestershire – Gloucestershire library shortlisted for award – Planet Radio. “Bishop’s Cleeve library managed to get 4000 children in Gloucestershire reading as part of their summer reading challenge. They also rolled out a scheme providing reading packs – full of literary resources and books – for vulnerable children in the county. The David Vaisey Prize ceremony takes place today – with the winner awarded £5,000 and £1,000 to the runners up.”
• Highlands – Bookbug stories and rhymes sessions run by High Life Highland libraries short-listed for Scottish Library and Information Council award after going online during coronavirus crisis lockdown – Ross-shire Journal. “The SLIC Award celebrates the commitment and creativity of Scotland’s library services and shortlisted High Life Highland for its work moving Bookbug sessions – stories and rhymes for young children – online during lockdown.”
• Manchester – Chorlton and Longsight libraries to get revamp – About Manchester. “Libraries in Chorlton and Longsight are the latest Manchester libraries set to get a re-vamp as part of the council’s ambitious £6m Libraries 2023 strategy.” … “Now, under latest plans to further improve the city’s libraries – announced this week to coincide with National Libraries Week – Chorlton Library will be completely transformed and restored, whilst over at Longsight Library, library users are going to benefit from a complete reconfiguration of the building along with other improvements that will help open up the building to more people and broaden the services it provides.”
• Norfolk – Anger at ‘unfair’ plans for library expansion to swallow community garden – Norwich Evening News. “Norfolk County Council has drawn up plans to build an extension to Sprowston Library in Recreation Ground Road which would result in the loss of the sensory garden finished just before the pandemic. The town council has said it is strongly opposed to the application due to the loss of the garden.”
• Northamptonshire – A ‘much loved and vital community hub’ to celebrate three decades since opening its doors – Northampton Chronicle. “To mark the anniversary, there will be a series of activities taking place at the library throughout the day including a giant birthday card for members of the public to sign, birthday cakes from the WI and entertainment from the ‘Big Sing’,”
• Redbridge – Redbridge Libraries to Receive Huge Digital Upgrade – Redbridge Vision. Bigger screen sizes. “The Public PCs are available now at Redbridge Central Library and will continue to be rolled out across the rest of the service this Autumn. “
• Renfrewshire – Jack Carlin hopes new campaign can inspire cyclists – Gazette. “The ideas process open until Sunday, November 14 and can be submitted online at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/YouDecide or via post boxes placed in libraries, leisure centres and Morrisons supermarkets across Renfrewshire.”
• Slough – Two Slough libraries could be axed in bid to ease financial pressures – Royal Borough Observer. “A 12-week consultation could be launched from October 28, if cabinet members decide to give the go-ahead at next Monday’s meeting. According to the library services consultation report, it states the current service is “not affordable”, and the Labour-run council is eyeing up cuts after it was forced to freeze all non-essential spending over years of high borrowing and accounting errors.” …. “There are five proposed options that residents can comment on including closing both Langley and Cippenham library buildings but maintain the staffing and hours at the Curve and Britwell.”
• Wandsworth – New library: Wandsworth Town Library(England – Naple Sister Libraries. “29 European public libraries participating”

Editorial

The ninth anniversary of Suffolk Libraries being a trust, combined with release of York Explore’s annual review reminds me to talk about libraries trusts for a moment. There’s only really three of them in England (Devon, Suffolk and York) and they’ve all done, as far as I can tell, pretty well. There may have been unpublicised cuts in any of them (by the nature of things, this is hard to say) but generally they have been notably full of innovation, confidence and a lack of branch closures. The library trusts are also far better at publicity (I’m actually quite concerned there’s nothing from Devon this week in this bulletin, I must see if they’re feeling well) than a typical council library service. Libraries run by leisure trusts, on the other hand, have had a far more chequered decade, with some going strong but quite a few falling by the wayside. The reasons for the difference is complex but presumably a major factor is that leisure trusts rely far more on private income than pure public library operations. And private income can be fickle. Whatever the reason, I see library trusts, with some reservations, as generally a success story. I’ll report back on the subject in another nine years.

Changes by local authority

• Wrexham – Mobile Library may be withdrawn.

National news

• An Introduction to Death Positive Libraries – British Library. Thursday 30 September, 11am to 12 noon. “Recently a number of pioneering libraries have been exploring creative ways to help people think and talk about death and loss. This webinar will explore what being “death positive” really means and why it matters. Join Anita Luby, Head of Cultural Services at Redbridge Libraries, as she reflects on the impact of implementing death positive initiatives. To many, Libraries are seen as a refuge for thought, reflection and connection, where life can be better understood. In many ways they are a perfect space for opening up conversations about death in a positive and supportive context. This webinar will provide some general tips and advice to give you the confidence and inspiration to consider a death positive approach to your own service. It will also be an opportunity to hear how Libraries Connected will be supporting death positive initiatives and how you could get involved in their future plans.”
• Black History Month 2021 Celebrated In Better Libraries – Better. “Taking the theme Dig deeper, look closer, think bigger – October is Black History Month and GLL libraries will be joining the action with an insightful and entertaining programme of arts, literature and more – sharing perspectives on history, identity, music and politics.”
• Black History Month in Libraries – Libraries Connected. A look at what’s going on in Lambeth, Oldham, Redbridge, Staffordshire, St Helens and Wandsworth.
• Libraries Connected to host digital tour with Pearse – BookSeller. ” “I’m delighted to be embarking on a follow-up #LoveLibraries tour, supported by Libraries Connected. The #LibrariesFromHomeLive initiative launched last year was a huge success and, although I can’t wait to see people face to face, hear their laughter, and know they’re enjoying themselves with a friend or family member for a couple of hours, the ability to travel the UK without leaving my armchair does give some benefit! Support for our libraries, via digital events, or physical, is so important. They have played such a pivotal role in my life, allowing me the dream of becoming a writer, and their importance to our communities, and future readers and writers, can’t be underestimated.””
• London’s most-fined library books from the Highway Code to physics textbooks – My London. “The request was sent to all 33 London boroughs, and 14 held this information.”. Public libraries fine those learning to drive, applying for citizenship and studying the most.
• Mr. Men Little Miss and Winnie-the-Pooh: Once There Was a Bear – POS pack and digital resources – Reading Agency. 100 packs to give away.
• Support our Libraries: history shows the crisis of the public library is nothing new – Scotsman. “Yet while our universities flourish, there is a crisis in our public libraries. Councils all over Scotland are forced to reassess the future of their library network. Many branches have not reopened after the pandemic closures; perhaps some never will. Why has it come to this?” … summary of public libraries in Scotland … “he current crisis of the library is not a new phenomenon of the digital age, but part of a recurrent pattern of collecting, dispersal, recreation and destruction that goes all the way back to the Roman Empire” … “The London campaigners acknowledged that they were not themselves regular users of the branch they wished to save, and when we visited the under-threat building, a Victorian benefaction that predates Carnegie, we found people using computers and newspapers but none consulting the book stock. And councils, unlike the UK government, cannot print money”

International news

• Afghanistan – The battle for Afghanistan’s libraries – Financial Times. “In the popular imagination, libraries are seen as safe and serene, places where study is undertaken in an atmosphere of quiet contemplation. Yet in Afghanistan today, libraries and archives are under attack. Librarians are either unable to come back to serve their community or in fear of what the Taliban will inflict on them. Many have fled the country or are in the process of leaving, often at great personal risk.  The public library in Kabul and the National Archives there now have a limited staff presence, but no services are provided. University libraries are all currently closed …”
  • As Taliban violence forces schools in Afghanistan to close, mobile libraries give hope to girls – South China Morning Post. This is an August post, showing what has been lost.
• Canada – “Read October” campaign launched to provide dyslexia friendly books to Ontario public libraries – Yahoo News. “All funds raised through Read October go to grants to help Ontario public libraries purchase dyslexia-friendly resources.”
• Global – Covid-19: A catalyst for change?Covid-19: A catalyst for change? – Research Information. “as more and more libraries turn to digital content and cloud-based services, Burke believes there will be no going back” … “‘There’s going to be continuing  greater demand for ebooks over print books” [mainly about academic libraries – Ed.]
  • EB#1 Events and Bookings – Solus. “Specified, designed and built in partnership with Eastern Regional Libraries Corporation (Melbourne, Australia), Solus is delighted to bring you eb#1, your library centric Events and Bookings software. “
• USA – Author Ta-Nehisi Coates on Banned Books Week, anti-racist books being banned – CBS News. “”Between the World and Me” author Ta-Nehisi Coates joins “CBS Mornings” to discuss Banned Books Week and the dangers of censoring books. Plus, he shares his reaction to one of his own books being banned.”
  • Implications of the transition towards library services platforms – Paul Derscheid. “Library services platforms or LSPs for short represent the current iteration of library management software. These platforms are distributed systems by nature and leave the trodden path of monolithic products by providing APIs for customized application development, which is by itself a considerable improvement in comparison to the rather limited possibilities that traditional integrated library systems (ILS) provide. LSPs are able to achieve this by implementing a couple of architectural changes to the underlying system, which will be discussed in a dedicated section.”
  • Times are changing: Covid-19 and library late fees – BookRiot. “Michelle Jeffers of the SFPL responded, “The library’s job is not to teach that kind of responsibility. It’s to provide equal access to information and education.””

Local news by authority

• Bolton – Bolton: Libraries to stay open despite £364,000 cuts plan – Bolton News. “all the borough’s libraries are set to remain open despite plans for £364,000 worth of cuts. But the cuts will result in reduced opening times in many of the borough’s outlying libraries, with some smaller ones losing as much as half a day, while some librarians have opted for retirement or redeployment.”
• Bradford – Bradford Council stages free interactive storytelling sessions – Telegraph and Argus. “Bradford Libraries has teamed up with 14 local authorities across the country to offer families an exciting, engaging and free programme of virtual entertainment experiences. Children aged three and over and their families can join a programme featuring online activities and storytelling sessions held by drama facilitator John Kirk, who will take participants to far-off places with classic fairy and folk tales.”
• Camden – Kentish Town Library of Things – Library of Things. Based in Kentish Town Library. “Kentish Town now has its very own Library of Things. It’s a place where you can borrow useful things for your home, projects and adventures.”
• Doncaster – Danum Gallery, Library and Museum is officially open – Doncaster Council. Official opening pushed back several months due to Covid.
• Edinburgh – In pictures: ‘Book wumman’ builds a library for the homeless – STV News. ““I asked her how important a book was,” recalled Rachel, who knows what it’s like to be homeless. “And she thought about it really hard and said ‘well, it can be better than food’.” That encounter led to her setting up a charity – aptly named Streetreads – and now she’s opened a library in the capital that has impressed one of Scotland’s bestselling authors.”
• Essex – Essex: Valentine’s Day obscene content led to library ban – BBC. “Libraries in Essex have banned people 146 times since 2016, most commonly for intimidating and aggressive behaviour. But the county council said one person is prohibited from Maldon library for “viewing obscene content” on 14 February 2017. The council said the “vast majority… use their libraries appropriately”.”
  • Essex County Council says Essex’s 74 libraries will remain open – Gazette Standard. “The council triggered an almighty reaction three years ago in November 2018 when it was announced there were plans to close 25 out of 74 libraries and remove support for a further 18.” … “But Kevin Bentley has made his – and the council’s – position clear. He will not be cutting libraries. In fact, the plan is to invest in them and make them fit for future generations. The county council is now developing a four-year plan which seeks to improve services and maximise the number of people using libraries”
  • Essex writers invited to Essex Authors Day at Chelmsford Library on Saturday – Essex Council. “The programme will comprise of three exciting seminars, led by experienced authors Jonathan Crane, Simon Edge and Lizzie Chantree.”
  • Reasons for over 100 bans from libraries revealed – Halstead Gazette. “Another member of the public was banned from Braintree library on May 5, 2019, for “urination on furniture”.”
• Falkirk – Falkirk’s libraries in running for major award – Falkirk Herald. “The Falkirk Community Trust (FCT) story may be coming to its final chapter but that has not stopped its library service making the shortlist of national awards.” … “The trust is due to hand back its responsibilities – including the library service – to Falkirk Council in April 2022, but hopefully it will be able celebrate winning a Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) accolade before then.”
• Flintshire – Mold’s first ever BookFest will come to the town – here’s how to get involved – Leader.
• Glasgow – Macmillan@Glasgow Libraries support service restarts – Glasgow Times. “Macmillan Cancer Support and Glasgow Life have restarted the face-to-face support that stopped during the pandemic. But as libraries reopen across the city, the service is getting back up and running. Pip Lawrenson, Macmillan’s engagement coordinator for Glasgow Life, said: “We’re so glad to be back and to be able to see people again.”
• Hertfordshire – Herts libraries service could be transferred to public service mutual – Welwyn Hatfield Times. “The results of that review are expected to be reported to a meeting of the council’s education, libraries and lifelong learning cabinet panel next month.”
• Hull – ‘There are lots of lonely people who look forward to their regular phone call – you might be the only person they’ve spoken to that day’ – Hull Council. “In November 2020 Library Link, a service from Hull Libraries, setup Call and Chat, which saw volunteers making weekly or fortnightly befriending telephone calls with customers. To date, volunteers have made more than 500 calls lasting a total of more than 15,500 minutes. Many of these regular telephone calls continue almost a year on from the project’s creation”
• Kent – Thousands of Kent bookworms enjoy Summer Reading Challenge – In Your Area. “More than 12,000 children have been learning about nature and the environment in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge from Kent libraries.” cf. 19,000 in 2019.
• Leeds – Horsforth Library leads on entrepreneurship – Wharfedale Observer. ” Start-up Leeds will be run at local libraries across the city and will offer support to anyone with a business idea or a fledgling business in any sector.”
• Leicester – Readings, workshops and poetry on offer for Libraries Week – Leicester City Council. “crime writing, poetry and the Black Lives Matter movement.” … “Visitors to any city library between 4 and 7 October will also be able to contribute to a community poem to mark National Poetry Day”
• Northamptonshire – Concerns about Raunds Library – helping raise local concerns – Tom Pursglove MP / Facebook. “I have been receiving a number of emails from local residents regarding the future of Raunds Library. I am mindful of what a much loved facility this is for a good number of people in our local community and am keen to help in any way that I can in securing its future for the long-term and gaining clarity around this. Indeed, I have been very active on these matters in the past and am willing, and actively being, supportive again. I have already been liaising with Raunds Town Council in search of answers. Of course, please feel free to get in touch with your concerns so that I can raise them with the relevant authorities.”
• Northumberland – Northumberland libraries prepare to mark new chapter as popularity continues to grow – Northumberland Gazette. Launch of a “welcome back to libraries” promotion. “We certainly are ready to Turn the Page on a new chapter for the service with a programme of both virtual and physical events planned for the rest of the year, fresh new stock and a digital offer accessible to all.””
• North Yorkshire – Libraries to celebrate poetry day – Keighley News. Events including poetry.
  • Join the fun-filled Libraries Month activities – North Yorkshire County Council. “To coincide with National Libraries Week (October 4 to 10), residents are being challenged to Squeeze in a Read to encourage more people to make a safe return to libraries.”
  • Libraries support students with new digital offer – North Yorkshire County Council. “Eduroam is an online roaming service for students, staff and researchers from organisations signed-up to the service, allowing them to access educational resources. Eduroam has also been rolled out as part of the County Council’s introduction of free public Wi-Fi across 16 of the county’s market towns to support recovery and growth for communities and businesses.”
• Orkney – Library launches dementia help point – Orcadian. “Orkney Library and Archive has helped a dementia charity reach a milestone achievement, by becoming the UK’s 1,000th Playlist for Life Help Point. Playlist for Life supports those living with dementia to access music from their past. The charity has teamed up with Orkney’s flagship library to offer this service to folk in our community. A Playlist for Life Help Point is somewhere that people affected by dementia can access free information, resources and in some cases support about creating and using a personal playlist.”
• Reading – Reading Libraries Events This October – Reading Council. Various events including Fun Palaces and Black History Month.
• Redbridge – Council to approve children’s performances after monkey costume scandal – Ilford Recorder. “All children’s performances at Redbridge libraries will be signed off by the council following a controversy over an inappropriate monkey costume earlier this year.” … “At a full council meeting last Thursday (September 23), council leader Jas Athwal said Vision had provided a “full and thorough investigation of why the series of events took place”. “
• Rochdale – Balderstone Library chosen for national scheme – Rochdale Online. “Balderstone is one of ten libraries in England that will work with BookTrust to test new ways of inspiring shared early years story experiences. Starting in October, the pilot will encourage young families to visit their local library, offering them a shared reading experience, to help bring the magic of reading to life.”
• St Helens – Business start-up support now on offer at St Helens Library – The Reporter. “The move comes as The Business & IP Centre (BIPC) Liverpool (based in Central Library) and the British Library announced the roll out of several new local BIPCs across the Liverpool City Region to support future entrepreneurs.”
  • Best-selling author to give virtual talk with St Helens Library Service – Reporter. ” in conjunction with Libraries Connected and Michael Joseph Books – Lesley Pearse, one of the nation’s best-loved storytellers, will be giving a talk over Zoom”
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries marks nine years of making a difference – Lowestoft Journal. “All 44 libraries in Suffolk remain open with several now offering improved facilities and increased opening hours … After the relaxation of COVID regulations in July Suffolk Libraries launched ‘The Big Catch Up’ campaign to help bring people together and show how the library service can play a vital role in recovery after the pandemic. … “The last year has turned the traditional idea of a library service on its head and allowed us to reach even more people than ever before in all sorts of different ways.”
• Wiltshire – Library book arrives in Salisbury 18 years after it was due to be returned – Planet Radio.
  • Campaign encourages Wiltshire residents to pick up a book – This is Wiltshire. “Beginning on September 27, Wiltshire Council is inviting all schools in the county to sign up to a reading awards scheme that enhances reading through a series of achievements to tick off.”
• Windsor and Maidenhead – When are RBWM’s library hours changing? – Windsor Express. “The Royal Borough’s libraries are starting a new chapter this month with an expanded home delivery service and revised opening times. The council came under fire earlier this year when its budget included a plan to ‘transform’ the library service to move to an increased digital offering. This involved a plan to close certain libraries, including Boyn Grove Library, with the remainder operating for a total of 217.5 hours per week.” … “More than 1,000 responses were sent to the council consultation. Since then, it revised its position and is keeping all 11 permanent library buildings open, with some reduced hours.”
• Worcestershire – Call to end scaremongering over future of town centre library – Redditch Standard. ” Coun Dormer said it was wrong to keep alarming the public over the future of the library in Redditch. “The library function in this town is going nowhere,” he said. “After The Hive in Worcester it’s the most used library in the county so why would we want to downscale it or downgrade it? “However it does need modernising, the future of libraries is as community hubs and it needs more tech, more computers. “A decision has not yet been made on its future site but the town hall is the favoured location for me and the county council.””
  • Free anthologies at Redditch Library to mark UK Poetry Day – Redditch Standard. “Visitors will be able to help themselves to these books from the day itself, Thursday, October 7, for one week. The books are the result of four different free writing courses, run by The Word Association CIC in partnership with Worcestershire Libraries and funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.”
• Wrexham – Wrexham’s mobile library van could be replaced by ‘pop-up’ service – The Leader. “A mobile library van which visits isolated communities in Wrexham could be replaced by a new “pop-up” service, it’s been revealed. The travelling library has been out of action since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic to prevent the spread of the virus. In autumn 2020, it was replaced by a pop-up service, where temporary libraries are set up at venues across the area.” … “The local authority is now proposing to make the changes permanent in a bid to reduce its carbon footprint [not seen this one used as a reason for cutting library services before – Ed.], resulting in the old mobile library service being axed.”
• York – Annual Review – York Explore. “We hope you will agree that our Libraries and Archives aren’t just places to read stories, they are places to make stories, and that this was especially true in the year the world turned upside down.”