Archive for July, 2022

Editorial

One of the big things about the CILIP Conference, which I was going to write about last week before a whole bunch of social media trouble, was the launch of the Green Libraries Manifesto. This looks like a sure winner to me. There’s no need to “greenwash” libraries. We’ve been pretty darn green to begin with. A book bought in a bookshop perhaps gets read once, twice if it’s lucky. And a lot of books aren’t even read at all: they’re just gifts. A library book gets taken out, what, twenty times? Thirty? I’ve withdrawn books with eighty date-stamps on them. And they’ve been doing it for ages. I bet those papyri at the Library of Alexandria got read a lot more than a typical “The Man Who Got Mummified Twice” by Richardeses Osmanakhun.

And, oh yeah, there’s a climate emergency going on at the same time as energy prices smash previous record highs. So public libraries can shout about their green credentials while at the same being a place of refuge for those who cannot afford to heat their houses. A tweet from Martin Lewis suggesting “warm banks” got 44,000 likes last time I checked. Wow.

And, as I write this, we’re living through a heat wave and in a country where barely anyone has air conditioning. I see an opportunity there for “cool banks” in libraries there, like they already do in the USA. And not just because I don’t want to melt in the libraries I work at this week. Oh no.

Changes by local authority

• Blackpool – Combined library and launderette opens in Mereside.
• Derby – Ten volunteer libraries potentially under threat.
• St Helens – Billinge Library, Garswood Library, Parr Library, Peter Street Library, Rainford Library and Rainhill Library to close or go volunteer.

National news

• Green Libraries – CILIP. “The Green Libraries Partnership works in collaboration with leading organisations: Arts Council England, the British Library, Libraries Connected and Julie’s Bicycle.”. Sign up to the Manifesto via Green Libraries Manifesto– working together for people and planet – CILIP.

• Green Libraries Manifesto – Libraries Connected. “As libraries we occupy a place at the heart of the communities we serve. Through this manifesto, we want to come together towards a shared vision: to lead by example through our own environmental actions and use our power and reach to inform and inspire people to take positive action and build resilience in the diverse communities we serve.”
• How to Apply – E to G Libraries Tour 2023 – Simon Armitage. “Does your library’s name or location in the UK (village, town or city, but not street) begin with the letters E, F, G or Welsh Ff or Ng? If so, you’re welcome to submit an invitation by August 19, asking Simon Armitage to visit during the next Tour: Mon-Sat, March 20-25, 2023. “
• Kerry Hudson: School librarians saved me – Scotland can’t afford to lose them – Press and Journal. “I’m writing this to you because I credit so much of this to school libraries and librarians. I don’t know how I would have survived those years had I not been able to disappear into the books and safe space you provided me.”

Public libraries also play an important role in supporting digital inclusion. Around 2,900 public libraries in England provide a trusted network of accessible locations with staff, volunteers, free wifi, public PCs, and assisted digital access to a wide range of digital services. Library staff and volunteers have been trained in digital skills so that they can provide library users with in-person support in using digital applications and services.

Damian Collins, Chair, Draft Online Safety Bill. They Work For You.

• Libraries as Dysfunctional Organizations and Workplaces – Routledge. “Libraries as Dysfunctional Organizations and Workplaces expands the ‘dysfunctional’ concept in the professional and academic LIS discourse by exposing the internal problematics of libraries, especially at the social and organizational level.”

• Libraries Hub – Libraries Week. “In 2022, Libraries Week celebrates how libraries support life-long learning. Visit our ‘Get Started Guide’ to explore our marketing and publicity toolkits and download posters and social graphics in four eye-catching designs to showcase how your library is inspiring learning for all.”
• Novels that Shaped our World libraries programme: Evaluation Report – Libraries Connected. “Here is just a snapshot of the impact on participants. Much more detailed information is included in the full report. At the bottom of this page you will also find the project brochure, produced to highlight and celebrate the fantastic work of each participating library.”
• Sustainability, Accessibility and Resilience: Reflections from the CILIP Conference + Expo 2022 – CILIP NW. “it really was terrific to have the opportunity to see people in person and listen to – and have – great and interesting conversations with people from all different places and experiences.”

International news

• Australia – Why your library could soon change completely – News.com.au. Report on libraries going fines-free. “Last year, Cambridge Library raked in just under $15,000 in fees for overdue library books. However, Ms Shannon says the juice just isn’t worth the squeeze. “The report to council explained that the cost of the administration was actually greater than the fee collected”
  • Libraries are about ‘people, not books’ as they survive and thrive in digital age – ABC News. “Librarian Chris Jones remembers being warned in the late 1980s — just as the internet was emerging — that libraries would be “dead in five years”. But despite advances in technology and the emergence of the digital age, he said libraries were thriving as people changed the way they used them. Mr Jones said libraries were “here to stay” because they were about so much more than the books.” … “Libraries are about people, not books, they are about a safe, socially inclusive space where people can interact”

• USA – Montana rejects library logo over similarity to pride flag – AP News. “a member said the main feature — a prism — brought to mind the rainbow LGBTQ pride flag, something she suggested would set off a political firestorm.” [They’re going to get really angry when they see sunlight reflected through rain – Ed.’]. $130k logo design consultancy wasted. “suggested the logo be toned down to shades of blue, black and gray.”
  • Bee Cave librarian: Summer reading program winds down – Austin American Statesman. “World Champion trick roper Kevin Fitzpatrick and his horse Romeo helped us kick things off, drawing more than 350 people to the plaza in front of the library” … “The annual Summer Reading program has been a mainstay of public library service for the past hundred years or so”
  • Found in a Library Book – I Love Libraries. “The librarians at Oakland (Calif.) Public Library have collected the treasures they’ve found in books over the years and digitized them to create the “Found in a Library Book” project. The ephemera includes drawings ranging from crude to intricate, photos, homemade bookmarks, maps, personal letters, odd lists, and more. It’s all endlessly fascinating and incredibly bingeworthy.”
  • Libby is stuck between libraries and publishers in the e-book war – Protocol. “While they might be worried about their budgets, at the end of the day librarians just want people to read more, and Libby is helping them do that. “We only see it as a positive,” Jeske said. “It has introduced the library to folks who weren’t using it before.””

• More than 200 Stuffed Animals Sleepover at the Goleta Valley Library – Santa Barbara Independent. “Staff were prepared for a great turnout as they have had in the past but were thrilled to see more than 200 “stuffies” dropped off this year for the “all-nighter”.”
  • Urban Library Trauma Study Final Report – Urban Libraries Unite. “Almost every library worker has a story about one event at work that left them shaken. Sometimes it’s an abusive patron, sometimes it’s workplace bullying, and sometimes it’s that haunting feeling left behind when a patron needed more help than you could provide.  The Urban Library Trauma Study (ULTS) looked to take these anecdotal stories, quantify them and build a pathway to practical solutions for the issue and move the library industry towards a culture of community care.”
  • With another leader leaving, Vinton Public Library closes for now – Gazette. “The Vinton Public Library, which lost two directors in two years amid community complaints over books, is now closed indefinitely as the interim director has left, too. The previous directors left after city residents complained about the library’s display of LGBTQ books and books about Democratic President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.”
  • The ‘world’s first library farm’ is home to plush gardens and community innovations – Shareable. ““This is as grassroots as you can get,” Buswell said. “We saw the grass and we decided we could garden there.””

Local news by authority

• Blackpool – Grand opening announced for new Mereside library and launderette – Gazette. “The Langdale Library and Laundry Room – also called Wash Your Words – on Langdale Parade will officially open to the public at 11am on July 30, following a ceremonial procession to transport books from the old Mereside Library at Crummock Place. Clifton ward coun Paula Burdess said: “This new facility is great news for Mereside. The new library and laundry space will be a fantastic asset for residents to be able to use and socialise.”
• Borders – Mobile Library Service – Live Borders. “Need to print something?  Our East Mobile Library van now has a shiny new printer which can print, scan to USB and photocopy”
• Bradford – Money for mobile libraries among schemes to benefit from developer cash – Telegraph and Argus. “£312,216 will be spent on boosting education facilities, £191,587 on parks and green spaces, £70,958 on walking and cycling schemes, £70,958 on improving wildlife habitats and £63,862 on library services.”
• Calderdale – Calderdale councillor calls for sale of Hipperholme Library to be suspended – Halifax Courier. “A councillor has called for a halt to the sale of a library building in Calderdale while a complaint about the circumstances of its closure is considered.” … “Coun George Robinson (Con, Hipperholme and Lightcliffe) said Calderdale Conservatives have submitted a formal complaint to the Secretary of State for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) arguing that the council’s Labour Cabinet had not properly consulted the public immediately before agreeing to close the buulding – one of eight libraries across Calderdale – in November 2020 under the Future Council proposals.”
• Derby – There’s ‘no intention’ to close Derby libraries, says leading councillor – Derby Telegraph. “These are libraries run by volunteers and managed by Derby based charity Direct Help and Advice (DHA). The libraries involved are located in Allestree, Allenton, Blagreaves, Chaddesden, Chellaston, Derwent, Mackworth, Sinfin, Spondon and Springwood Library in Oakwood. But there are growing fears that some or possibly all of the libraries will close permanently as a result of the review as Derby City Council seeks to find “options for a sustainable library provision that meets the needs of its communities”. see also Council urged to take back control of under-threat Derby libraries – Derbyshire Live.

• Devon – Popular escape room experience comes to South Molton Library – North Devon Gazette. “Following a sold out run at Exeter Library last year, the escape room experience will be visiting” … “The Lost Librarian is a ground-breaking escape room for inquisitive explorers of all ages. Using interactive mechanical books, groups of up to six people experience a 60-minute journey, uncovering a fantastical tale of the last known witches in the UK and the legacy that they have left behind. Work together as a team to solve the mystery of the Lost Librarian.” £12 per session.
  • Police probe after Devon mobile library destroyed in savage fire – Devon Live. “Owners of Torrington Mobile Library are “devastated” after their vehicle was destroyed in a fire last night. A spokesperson at Libraries Unlimited said the service is currently suspended and would have serious financial implications for the charity.”
• Dudley – Go explore with Beat the Street Dudley – Dudley Council. “This week is Go Explore and events include a Mystery Box event, where random Beat Boxes all across Dudley will be giving out triple points this weekend and a Wild Letter Hunt at Brierley Hill Library on 9 July 11am – 3pm. Pick up an activity sheet and find the letters hidden around the library. Earn double points at our Mobile Box and win great prizes. People can also post selfies of themselves playing the game and share on twitter @BTSDudley with the chance to win their own stuffed toy cuddly hedgehog. So far, 22,385 participants have signed up and have together walked, cycled, run, scooted and wheeled nearly 48,000 miles across the game area.”
• Gateshead – Gateshead warm buildings plan for people in heating crisis – BBC. “On Monday, Mr Lewis, the founder of the Money Saving Expert website, tweeted he could not “believe I’m writing this, but I wonder if this winter we’ll need ‘warm banks’ the equivalent of ‘food banks'”. He suggested public buildings such as libraries might be used for people to keep warm.”

• Glasgow – Call for Springburn Library to restore opening times and fix staff shortage – Glasgow Evening Times. “Springburn Library is only open on Monday, Tuesday and Saturday and has also experienced a string of sudden closures. Glasgow Life, which runs the facility, said there have been recruitment issues and staff absence. “
• Gloucestershire – ‘Ambitious’ new library strategy aims to fight climate change in Gloucestershire – Gloucestershire Live. “Libraries will encourage wildlife and tree planting in library gardens, install electric vehicle charge points in library car parks, promote recycling and raise awareness of initiatives to help the environment”
• Hampshire – Hampshire County Council faces £200m budget hole – BBC. “The social care budget has also hit by cuts while plans to close eight libraries to save £1.76m were unveiled in 2020. Liberal Democrat leader Councillor Keith House said the county council was in “a deep, dark financial hole that gets worse each year”.”
• Kent – Get ready for the Gadgeteers, coming to Kent libraries – Kent Council.
• Lancashire – Greater Manchester council plans ‘warm banks’ in libraries to help struggling residents survive the winter – Manchester Evening News. “It comes after concerns were raised by the money saving expert Martin Lewis about the prospect that ‘warm banks’ may need to be used. Warm banks are spaces where people who can’t afford to heat their home can go to stay warm. Lancashire County Council (LCC) has announced that some of its public buildings, such as libraries and other council buildings, could be used as “warm and welcome places” amid fears vulnerable people could freeze to death this winter. Rising fuel and energy prices with rocketing inflation are driving more and more people to food banks and other support areas, but this is only set to get worse.”. Only Tameside of the Manchester councils went public on what they plan: “Tameside was the only council to issue a full statement. They suggest residents using libraries in the borough to keep warm if needed, but they are also exploring ‘other options’ which could also be used.”
• Lincolnshire – Summer Reading Challenge – Spalding Voice. “Children aged 4-11 can visit the Victoria Street building to meet the Gadgeteers and get involved in a science and innovation themed challenge.”
• Middlesbrough – Libraries and Hope Foundation join IT poverty battle – Middlesbrough Council. “The town’s Library Service has joined forces with the Hope Foundation to get IT equipment to those who need it most. They’ve teamed up with the FurbdIT partnership which collects unwanted devices and IT equipment, and refurbishes and breathes new life into it for the benefit of local communities. Residents, organisations and businesses can drop off unwanted IT equipment such as PCs, laptops, iPads, tablets and mobile phones at Middlesbrough Central Library and community hubs and libraries at Acklam, Hemlington, Marton and Thorntree.”
• Norfolk – Norfolk libraries announce record year for supporting local businesses – Norfolk Council. “From April 2021 to March 2022, over 700 attendees received free business support from the Centre. 36% of these attendees were aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to start their own business and 27% were looking to grow an existing business. Additionally, there was a 180% increase in people receiving support from the Centre during this period.”
• North Somerset – Free sim cards to be handed out to people in part of Somerset – Somerset Live. “Residents who need a data voucher should contact their local library to make an appointment to collect it.”

• Nottingham – Nottingham library campaign group concerned as councillors ‘discussing’ running them with volunteers – Nottingham Post. “A campaign group seeking to save three vital Nottingham libraries from closure fears attempts may be made to have them operated by volunteers. The group says libraries are “nothing without library staff” and volunteer-run schemes generally favour more affluent areas.”
• Oldham – Summer Reading Challenge can help inspire young people – Oldham Council. “Sign up for the challenge and have fun making Lego Robots, musical instruments and slime”
• Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire libraries invite children to get curious and inventive this summer – Oxfordshire Council. “get entered into a countywide prize draw. Prizes include exciting science kits and national book tokens.”
• Plymouth – Former North Prospect Library site will be turned into homes – Plymouth Live. “Plans for homes to be built on the site of the former North Prospect Library site have been approved. Plymouth Community Homes’ scheme, which would see four two-bedroom flats and four one-bedroom flats built, has been backed by Plymouth City Council.”

• Portsmouth – Book your tickets for the Drag Queen Story Hour tour – Portsmouth Council. “Cllr Steve Pitt, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Economic Development, said, “We are committed to supporting diversity, as well as developing children’s love of reading, so I am really pleased that the summer tour is visiting our city and hope many families will choose to support this event.””
• Redbridge – Redbridge Holiday MiniMix – Redbridge Vision. “Redbridge Holiday Mini Mix is a programme of books, culture and creativity for children 4 years and over happening in Redbridge Libraries this summer holidays.”
• Solihull – Library Specialist – Stock and Resources – WM Jobs. £31-37k, full time permanent.
• South Gloucestershire – ‘Reading challenge can support literacy in South Gloucestershire over holidays’ – Gazette Series. “There are also lots of incentives to encourage young readers to participate such as free swim vouchers and brilliant books.”
• St Helens – Libraries decision ‘one of the most difficult’ councillors in St Helens have taken – St Helens Star. “a decision that could lead to the closure of six libraries is arguably one of the most “difficult” choices senior local authority figures have had to make.” … ” “some people were in favour” of having just one library in the entire borough which he was “strongly against”, which is why that plan “did not come forward”.” … “The current library service includes 13 libraries – although Billinge Library, on Main Street, is temporarily closed due to the condition of its roof and floor. The council says the findings of consultation and engagement exercises have been considered and are reflected in the final library strategy and delivery plan. These include the relocation of St Helens Library to a refurbished Gamble Building, making it a “state-of-the-art cultural centre”. However, the report confirms that the council proposes to reduce the number of library buildings to seven.” see also Historic building to be transformed as six libraries marked for closure – Liverpool Echo.
• Stockport – Stockport’s Central Library to continue to offer library services – Stockport Council. “the town’s Central Library will continue to offer library services to the borough’s residents. Following a consultation regarding the move of library services from the Central Library Building to Stockroom, it had previously been announced in February that the council’s adult education service, currently based at Hardman Street, would be the preferred service to relocate to the historic grade 2 building on Wellington Road South. Whilst many consultation respondents were very positive about the opportunities offered by Stockroom, others expressed concern that the Central Library Building would no longer house any library services. Some respondents said that they wanted to ensure that the public could continue to access and enjoy this important heritage building.”
• Stoke on Trent – Tunstall Library set to move into refurbished Tunstall Town Hall – Stoke on Trent Council. “We are really excited to be moving Tunstall Library into the Ballroom of the recently refurbished Tunstall Town Hall. “We have organised additional pop-up library facilities in Tunstall throughout the summer, to ensure our members can access all of their regular services while we transport the library to its new home.””
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries supporter announced as new children’s laureate – East Anglian Daily Times. “known for his Luna Loves picture books and Fairy Tales Gone Bad, which are often featured in Suffolk Libraries and recommended for children. Mr Coelho visited Ipswich County Library as part of a library marathon, where he pledged to join every library service in the UK. “
• Warwickshire – Could you be Warwickshire Libraries’ next Young Poet Laureate? – Warwickshire County Council. “The competition is open to anyone aged between 13 and 17 who lives and is educated in Warwickshire, and who would like to perform their own poetry to an audience.” … “ate’s Storytree ‘Stories of Innovation’ sessions will also be taking place,”
• Libraries across Warwickshire are inviting children to participate in the ‘Gadgeteers’ Summer Reading Challenge from Saturday 16 July 2022 – Warwickshire County Council. “Warwickshire libraries will be hosting a range of free events for children to enjoy during the summer, including an action-packed storytelling adventure game with Pyn Stockman called “The Lost Book of The Magic Flying Ship”.”

“The library boom has council officials both pleased and baffled. “Maybe during the pandemic people have got more into reading books,” said chief executive Nigel Lynn.”

• West Berkshire – Osman’s whodunnit most popular book in West Berkshire libraries – Newbury Today. “The council says there has been an 86 per cent increase in the number of people visiting, at around 60,000 for the first quarter of the year. Around 150,000 items were borrowed which is up 15 per cent on pre-pandemic levels.”

• West Northamptonshire – Campaigners’ joy as Northampton library gets set for a new chapter in a new home – Northampton Chronicle. “St James’ Library will open its shelves to customers at the Doddridge Centre on July 25, followed by an official opening on Saturday, July 30. The move comes after the library was shuttered during the Covid-19 pandemic and years of battling to avoid it becoming a victim of county council cutbacks.”
• Wrexham – Summer Reading Challenge book collection with Aura Libraries – Leader. “visit www.aura.wales/holiday-activities to view our list of Summer Reading Challenge activities including workshops with authors Karen McCombie and Ben Davis, plus mad science workshops, Lego clubs and Xplore Science Wrexham.”
  • Celebrating milestone of Wrexham Library – Leader. “In December 1972, Wrexham Library moved from its previous location on Queens Square to a new purpose-built building off Llwyn Isaf. To help us celebrate this milestone we would like you to share with us your stories and memories of you using the library, either the old building or the new one”

Editorial

As you may have noticed from last week’s editorial, the subject of intellectual freedom and public libraries is on my mind a bit recently. This is partly due to me being about to do a short presentation on it at the CILIP Conference this week. But it’s also because it’s, well, been in the news a lot. The far-right in the USA have been targeting public libraries for a while now for a range of things that they don’t agree with. Being this is the USA, this includes turning to children’s libraries with guns and liberally scattering accusations of paedophilia around.

This infection is now spreading to other countries, with Canada reporting multiple outbreaks as well. The disease of aggressive close-mindedness is also, worryingly, becoming part of the scene in the UK with very similar tactics (thankfully, minus the guns) being deployed against drag queen story-times here. The time when such thought-burning trends could be seen as part of just one country’s make-up appears gone. The internet has allowed such prejudice to go global as easily as local. And the English-speaking world, being able to understand American bigoted social media posts and the like easily, is as susceptible as anywhere else. Perhaps even more so.

Of course, being British, some of this tragedy translates as something closer to comedy. You will recall from last week that Nottingham, which is moving forward with its plans to close libraries, decided to ban a radical feminist author from speaking last week. But of course they still have the author’s books. And that of JK Rowling, who prominently thinks the same way. So why? Well, I guess censoring book-stock would be going a bit too far. And banning Harry Potter is, amusingly, exactly what the Religious Right in the USA would want to do. And also there’s a court ruling that could be used against such a thing. But the author is going to sue anyway. Because, well, this is the world we live in now.

Changes by local authority

• Bradford – Becomes fines-free.
• Norfolk – Mobile library service may be cut

National news

• Anti-vaxxers select their next target – Scout News. “Where America leads, Britain follows. Protesters are trying to cancel a tour of the Drag Queen Story Hour traveling across England and Wales this summer. ” … “we don’t know the exact contents of the show, but I’m willing to bet any schedule that involves reading aloud the adventures of Little Nutbrown Hare won’t be especially damaging to children.” … “A group called Outreach WorldWide, which has campaigned against Covid jabs, has turned its attention to LGBT affairs. Based on Telegram, where it has 4,000 members, it has been instrumental in protesting against the story tour. It has encouraged members of its 37 regional teams to complain to their local library and contact their councillors and MPs to get the event cancelled.”

“it’s not like the event is being forced upon children. It’s ticketed and in libraries over the summer holidays, so unsuspecting children are unlikely to wander in. And even if they did, they are only likely to find a solitary drag queen reading the works of Michael Rosen. There are far worse things children could be watching.”

• CILIP Conference – CILIP. Last chance to book for 7 and 8 July. “Libraries, Information and Knowledge for Sustainability”
• Essential services websites in UK ‘should be accessible to all’ – Guardian. DCMS minister says “Public libraries play an important role in tackling digital exclusion. About 2,900 public libraries in England provide a trusted network of accessible locations with staff, volunteers, free wifi, public PCs, and assisted digital access to a wide range of digital services,”

• Inflation could push English councils into bankruptcy, say leaders – Guardian. “When budgets were set earlier this year, councils were typically factoring in average pay and inflation costs of about 3%. However, inflation is now at 9%, with the Bank of England predicting it will hit 11% by October.”
• Libraries Connected welcomes Ayub Khan MBE as new President – Libraries Connected. “As the first Black President of Libraries Connected, Ayub has vowed to use his platform to encourage more people from diverse backgrounds to pursue a career in libraries.”
• Libraries key to closing post-pandemic literacy gap, new report reveals – Libraries Connected. “Public Libraries and Literacy Recovery – produced for Libraries Connected by the National Literacy Trust and supported using public funding by Arts Council England – examines the role of libraries in raising the literacy skills of children whose learning has been disrupted by the pandemic. It highlights evidence that, despite the huge achievements of teachers and librarians in supporting pupils through periods of school closures, the pandemic has exacerbated the literacy gap between children from disadvantaged backgrounds and their peers.”
• Library fines – Libraries Hacked. ” Library fines are a policy that should be informed by data. Libraries cannot argue to continue doing something with no affirmative research, just because they don’t think there’s enough research to stop.” … “no service has released any publicly available open data that would make such analysis possible. “

“Why would someone return books to the library if they were going to have to pay £20, and they need that to feed their family? It’s more likely they’ll stop using the library.”

• New training programme aims to improve diversity in library leadership – Libraries Connected. “The modules, which were produced by the Birmingham Leadership Institute at the University of Birmingham, are structured around four core leadership capabilities: Leading for Resilience, Leading for Dialogue, Leading for Inclusion and Leading for Innovation. Unlike many online learning modules, Leading Libraries has been designed to be worked through gradually, allowing time for personal and group reflection. It can be accessed by all library staff, regardless of seniority.”
• Website survey – DCA/Koios. “a new survey for librarians designed to shed some light on how library websites are perceived and used. The survey includes questions on discoverability, purpose, and utility and asks how successful librarians think their websites are at supporting the library mission. The survey takes five minutes to complete and DCA will make a donation to Clear Voice Interpreting Services, a social enterprise that supports refugees and other people in need with free translation services, for every response received.”

International news

• Australia – Decolonising Libraries: Who controls the narrative? – ABC. “Hit play to hear Kerry’s story and learn what you can do to make sure libraries are a safe space for all.”
  • The world gets worse, but public libraries are forever – Sydney Morning Herald. “With all they have to offer, it’s odd then that the main users of libraries are babies, students and tech-phobic grandmothers looking to print out emails at 8am. The rest of us should rediscover the public library’s infinite assets. In fact, take my credit cards because the most valuable card in my wallet now is my library membership. (Note: Don’t take my credit cards.)”

• Canada – Libraries in Canada hit by wave of hate, threats, as right-wing groups protest all-age drag events – CBC. “More than half a dozen libraries and drag performers, from Saint John to Victoria, reported being inundated online and over the phone by homophobic slurs and, in some cases, threats of violence” … “library staff were, among other things, accused of assisting paedophiles and threatened with lawsuits. Their personal information was also circulated online.”. Comments include “one that said it was time to “light the torches,” and another that called for Saunders and a fellow performer to be burned alive.”
  • Calgary’s Central Library is a stunner to rival Seattle’s – Washington Post. “Visitors could easily spend an entire afternoon engrossed in the Calgary Central Library’s architecture, amenities and programming — or not. It’s also a beautiful place to simply pass the time and people-watch.”
• Ireland – Library reopening: ‘It’s one of the last great sanctuaries’ – Irish Times. ” you quickly begin to believe that if librarians were running the show, the world would be a better and nicer place. ” … “In February, when Libraries Ireland asked people to join the Ireland Reads campaign (irelandreads.ie) and pledge to put aside time to read a book each day, 570,000 people signed up.”

“It’s inherent in being a librarian that you move with the times, you move with society, you move with the world. You still work with people, that hasn’t changed. The library is a safe, secure, democratic space. it’s not for any one category or group. It’s a place where people can be free to meet, they don’t have to spend money. It’s one of the last great sanctuaries.”

• New Zealand – Horowhenua Libraries To Be Fine-free – Community Scoop. “We want our libraries to be inviting to everyone, allowing equal access to the information and inspiration found within the walls and resources, however fines can deter people from enjoying the services our community centres provide.”
• UAE – UAE unveils ‘Library of the Future’; over 1.1m books available for readers – Baaghi. “‘Mohammed bin Rashid Library’, a new cultural beacon in the region.” £225m cost (1 billion UAD). … ” “The economy needs knowledge … politics needs wisdom … nations need to learn … and all of that can be found in books.” see also Dubai opens new book-shaped library – Book Riot. “It’s been deemed the largest cultural project in Dubai. In addition to its unique design, it features eco-friendly features such as solar panels and and water recycling, used for its green spaces.”

• USA – Pride Month Children’s Library Event Canceled After Proud Boys Disruption – Newsweek. “Proud Boys confronting with staff about the LGBTQ+ books that were going to be read to children”
  • The Emerging Role of Outdoor Public Librarianship: Understanding the Need for Strengthened Infrastructure – Taylor and Francis Online. “Data reveal these services are expected to continue, and possibly expand. Given this potential growth, future research to uncover effective practices is needed so that libraries can effectively help their communities benefit from being outside in nature.”
  • The Important Role Libraries Play in Building a Creative and Innovative Society – Arch Daily. “Despite the rise of the online age, therefore, resulting in what we believe is the death of printed books and a growing lack of interest in libraries, there are still more libraries in the U.S. than there are Starbucks or McDonald’s franchises. Public libraries have continually evolved throughout the years, serving as important community hubs to aid learning, professional development, and healthcare.”
  • A panel at national conference for librarians raises questions over approach to Holocaust denial – Jewish Insider. “Two prominent literary figures argued that opposing book bans means allowing the dissemination of books that promote the Holocaust, sparking controversy and clarifications” … ” “The truth is, the hard truth, is that if we are going to unite against book bans, it includes all the books, and I think that’s what makes it a complicated gig.” but ““Disinformation is inconsistent with professional library collection development practices that have made libraries trusted community resources,”
  • Proud Boys who targeted LGBTQ+ story time met with ‘human shield’ of LGBTQ+ love – Pink News. “the far-right mob was met with a veritable wall of counter-protesters wearing kaleidoscopic colours, waving Pride flags and holding up signs in support of the LGBTQ+ community. “

Local news by authority

• Barnet – Barnet City of Stories Home Celebration Event – Eventbrite. “Come along to this special free event celebrating the launch of the City of Stories Home Anthology featuring talented new writers from across London, alongside published authors.”
• Bradford – Bradford Libraries scrap overdue book fines from today – Telegraph and Argus. “This decision has been taken in recognition of the financial pressures facing communities, particularly given the current cost of living crisis. Several library services across the country have dropped the charges and noticed more use of libraries and more stock returned.”

• Cheshire East – Cheshire East libraries helping support people in crisis – Winsford and Middlewich Guardian. “Adults coming in to browse the book stock and borrowing of books has not returned to pre-pandemic levels yet” … “Winter wellbeing resources were delivered to all Cheshire East libraries enabling other agencies working in communities and library staff to provide residents in need with much needed equipment including duvets, hot water bottles, gloves, and slow cookers.”
• Coventry – Digital Spaces present event to showcase at Coventry libraries – Coventry City Council – News Anyway. “a two-day showcase of live events that will feature digital activities, artwork and immersive experiences that celebrate Coventry Libraries as places of creativity, community and new perspectives.”
• Croydon – Croydon Mayor makes statement on South Norwood Library – Croydon News. “mayor has blamed “rising costs and construction delays” after a new library left empty for two years was put up for rent as a shop.” …”In 2021, there was a chance the library was going to be sold off as the building was not finished to the standard expected, but the council said it would use Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money to make it usable.”
• Devon – Secret Book Quest on a mission to reverse the literacy gap – Libraries Unlimited. “The Secret Book Quest – aimed at kids aged five and older. The Secret Book Quest has been challenging them to read a total of 50 books to collect all the stickers, decipher the code, and win a special prize”
• Dorset – Dorset Library Service participates in the ‘Gadgeteers’ Summer Reading Challenge – News Anyway.
  • New proposed strategy for libraries across Dorset – Bridport News. “Councillors reviewing the future strategy for the service say that while libraries should change to meet emerging needs and offer new services books should still be at its core. A new proposed overall strategy recognises that there has been a year on year decline in library use with some age groups seldom, if ever, stepping inside one.” … “the pattern over the last 20 or 30 years had seen the heavy use of libraries for younger children and their parents, followed by a drop in interest and then more library use by older people.”

• East Lothian – Continued staff shortages impact opening of several East Lothian libraries – East Lothian Courier. “Council libraries have faced closures ever since the Covid-19 outbreak, but recent staffing issues have resulted in difficulty fully reopening the sites. Six of the county’s smaller libraries have been affected, with the larger facilities remaining open on normal hours.”
• Essex – New partnership with HSBC UK to improve financial literacy – Essex Council. “We have joined forces with HSBC UK to bring a series of pop-up events to residents, sharing the bank’s financial literacy programmes in Essex Libraries.” … “They will offer face-to-face guidance around things like digital banking, fraud awareness and managing finances.” … “I am delighted that colleagues from HSBC UK are partnering with us to support our levelling up agenda”
• Gloucestershire – Proposal to move Stroud Library to shopping centre approved – BBC. “Gloucestershire County Council has agreed to move it to the Five Valleys Shopping Centre in Stroud. The council is expected to enter into a 25-year lease for the property within on the lower ground floor of the shopping centre in King Street. More than 500 people took part in a survey asking for people’s views on the proposal, with 70% in favour.”
• Highlands – High Life Highland libraries offer boost for those with type 2 diabetes – Ross-shire Journal. ” provide iPads to support those with type 2 diabetes. Packed with information and support the project is a partnership with NHS Highland, Diabetes Scotland and AbilityNet to support those at risk of developing diabetes as well as those newly diagnosed with the condition.”
• Inverclyde – Summer Reading Challenge set to sizzle – Inverclyde Council. Events include “the BodyWorks roadshow from Glasgow Science Centre, ‘Wee Storybox’ storytelling sessions, ‘Animal Man’ visits, and silent discos, as part of the challenge. “

• Lambeth – Lambeth library events and services for July 2022 – full listing – Brixton Buzz. Include children’s literature festival, musical recording and biodiversity.
• Lancashire – Lancaster teen’s ‘access all areas’ taste of music industry – Lancaster Guardian. “Skye Lumb, 15, took part in the Get it Loud in Libraries (GILIL) Academy Gig Camp at a show from rap artist Enny at Lancaster library, which saw her involved in a variety of aspects of putting on and promoting live music including marketing, digital media, photography and floor management.”
• Manchester – Suitcase unearths ‘treasure trove’ of Manchester history – BBC. “The free exhibition at Manchester’s Central Library will recount Ms Retallack’s life in the 19th and 20th Centuries.”
• Middlesbrough – Seed Library – Middlesbrough Library / Facebook. “The newly launched seed library is open to the whole community and will allow aspiring and novice gardeners to share and swap seeds and plants for free.”
• Newcastle – Summer Reading Challenge 2022: Gadgeteers – Newcastle Council. “the Summer Reading Challenge 2022 Trophy will be awarded to the school who has the most children completing the Challenge. The school in second place will receive a £50 voucher to spend on books for your school library.”

• Norfolk – Adult social care and mobile libraries at risk as council seeks £15m savings – Norfolk Live. “Dramatic measures including cuts to adult social care, mobile libraries and recycling centre are all part of measures proposed by County Hall in a bid to cut £15m from its budget. Options being considered by Norfolk County Council include raiding adult social care reserves and possibly cutting funding to mobile library services by almost half.” … “The council is also being asked to undertake a review of mobile library services. What changes could be made have not been announced but a saving of £200,000 is anticipated, almost half its £422,000 yearly budget.”
• Northumberland – Councillor welcomes efforts to improve promotion of Alnwick Library and TIC – Northumberland Gazette. ” work is underway to improve the advertising and visibility of both library and Tourist Information Centre which be believes have been ‘inadequately promoted for visitors’.”
• North Yorkshire – Experiment with new reading for summer challenge at libraries – Harrogate News. “A programme of events for families will support the challenge, including junk modelling, Lego sessions, science workshops, art and craft sessions, storytelling and theatre performances.”

• Nottingham – Nottingham City Council confirms it will not remove Julie Bindel books from library – Nottingham Post. “Nottingham City Council has confirmed that they will not be removing author Julie Bindel’s books from libraries across the city following the decision to cancel her talk on Saturday, June 25. Author Julie Bindel was due to speak at the library in Aspley.” … “There are books available by several other authors who hold similar views to Ms Bindel that have caused controversy. This includes books by authors J K Rowling and Kathleen Stock. Nottingham City Council has confirmed they will not remove any of the books. see also Julie Bindel: Council cancels author’s talk over trans views – BBC and Julie Bindel to sue Nottingham council after talk cancelled – Guardian. ““I was going up to speak about feminism, about violence against women. I was invited by a group of community activists who are trying to keep the library open.”” … “Bindel has been accused of transphobia because she says does not believe trans women can legitimately say they are a woman.”
• Reading – Aida H Dee to host Drag Queen Story Hour in Reading – Reading Chronicle. “Author and five-star Edinburgh Fringe Act, Aida H Dee, will be promoting diversity, acceptance and reading through interactive storytelling at four libraries in the town. Families are set to be entertained and children inspired to attend libraries as the comedian and activist makes Reading their first stop on a tour of 100 libraries in 100 days.”
• Sandwell – Sandwell to host summer jazz festival – Sandwell Council. Libraries as venues.
• Southend on Sea – Keep reading this summer and become a ‘Gadgeteer’ with Southend Libraries – Southend on Sea Council.