The usual repeat story of censorship in libraries is again in the news, with reports on protests to library staff over stock and events plus also the move in the British Library to tag books which may be politically incorrect at the date of tagging. I now remember somewhat fondly those innocent years when librarians could put what they thought was needed on the shelves without worrying about offending someone or being complained about. At least it means that people take what librarians do seriously I guess, although I could have done without the horribly one-sided report on GB News, though, included below.
Otherwise it’s been a quiet and indeed positive week, at least on the surface, with no less than three new libraries in the news. OK, none of them are big, at least one is volunteer staffed and one is community-owned but you can’t have everything I guess. Well, not people taking what you do for granted anyway.
Councils warned over library cutbacks after staff reductions – Herald Scotland. “New figures, obtained through Freedom of Information requests, reveal that the number of library staff in Scotland has dropped from 1,462 full-time equivalent workers in 2017-18 to just 1,306 by 2021-22. The data comes from the 24 out of 32 Scottish local authorities that provided responses to the requests.” … “Scotland’s Culture Minister has warned local councils to think “extremely carefully” before rolling out cutbacks to libraries after it was revealed the number of library staff has fallen since 2017.”
‘For the first time ever, I worry about doing drag gigs’ – BBC. ““Drag Story Hour looks exactly like any other [event] you would see at a library,” says Jonathan Hamlit, Drag Story Hour’s executive director in the US. “But the reader may look a little more fabulous than your average librarian.”” … “This level of violence has not been seen in the UK, but there have also been protests around drag storytelling events. “Last summer we had over 60 events [in the UK],” says Sab. “Only one of them didn’t have any aggressive people outside shouting at me.””
“To work in a library has always been considered a dull and boring job” … “Are librarians insulting the intelligence of the British public?” … “Obviously this is a waste of money”. GB News covers the British Library decision to flag potentially socially unacceptable terms in their own inimitably unbiased way.
Libraries partnership to provide information and support for people living with diabetes – Scotsman. “The pioneering project is a partnership between Diabetes Scotland, Digital Health & Care Innovation, Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), The Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (the Alliance), and pathfinder libraries in Aberdeenshire, the Borders, Dundee City, Glasgow City and Stirlingshire.”
Scottish Fine Free Movement – SLIC. “Removing barriers to access is a key action of Forward: Scotland’s Public Library Strategy, creating the momentum for Scotland’s public libraries to end fines for all. “
Third of UK librarians asked to censor or remove books, research reveals – Guardian. “Research carried out by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (Cilip), the UK’s library and information association, found that a third of librarians had been asked by members of the public to censor or remove books, indicating that such incidences “had increased significantly in recent years”, according to Cilip’s chief executive, Nick Poole. The most targeted books involve empire, race and LGBTQ+ themes.” … “Cilip is in the process of updating the national guidance for librarians in managing stock, spaces, events and activities.” … ” “No librarian should ever be in fear of their wellbeing or safety as a result of doing their job for the public.””
Why we should (sort of) abolish the poet laureate – Varsity. “We do need someone to stand in solidarity with poetry, but we don’t need them standing on the monarchy’s shoulders. If poetry needs a face, it should be a fresh one.” It should be poetry for the sake of poetry, and for the sake of the people” … ” laureates should take their cues from librarians, not the King”
International news
Canada – Why is there an increase of violence in Canadian public libraries? – Global News. “Local branches of all sizes are reporting an increase in verbal and physical violence. And for some, the pandemic made it even worse. Over the past two years, one person died and six others were injured in a mass stabbing in a public library in North Vancouver. Last December, 28-year-old Tyree Cayer was killed during a visit to Winnipeg’s Millennium Library. Four teenagers were charged in his death. And two branches of the Saskatoon library were closed temporarily because of concerns about staff safety.”
Poland / Ukraine – Rajska to Ukraine. Library’s help and support – Naple Sister Libraries. ” We are honoured that during this long and very difficult year, so many citizens of Ukraine residing in Krakow and Malopolska have found a place in the Rajska Library” … ” decided to launch a new, bilingual channel on Telegram”
Russia/Ukraine – Putin’s War on Ukrainian Memory – The Atlantic. “According to the Ukrainian Library Association, three national and state libraries, including the National Scientific Medical Library of Ukraine, as well as some 25 university libraries, have been severely damaged or destroyed. The most shocking statistics relate to public libraries: 47 have been completely destroyed beyond repair; another 158 are badly damaged and in need of repair; and a further 276 have received less serious damage.”
USA – The Week in Libraries: April 21, 2023 – Publishers Weekly. “”Local-library systems, and local librarians, are being vilified nationwide as peddlers of Marxism and child pornography. Whatever faith there was in public learning and public space is fraying. ”
“When the Culture Wars Come for the Public Library” – New Yorker. Republicans redefining “everyone” as “the majority” … ” trust has worn away, shrinking the bonds of state and citizen, and the public sector over all.” Local politicians no longer trust the library and wish to decide on what is appropriate stock themselves.
Bolton – Little Lever Library: Youths continue to terrorise library – Bolton News. ” the toilets were trashed with paper strewn everyone.”… “Now there is call for more to be done rather than just giving the youths ‘biscuits’.”… “People are now calling for the council to take action and simply ban the young people responsible from the library.”
New library wi-fi printing service in West Devon – Okehampton Today. “Customers can also print from home or on-the-go by logging in, sending to print and collecting from the library the same or next day”
Edinburgh – New library now under construction in Ratho – Edinburgh Reporter. “The library had been contained in a temporary unit and this was demolished making way for a new single storey building. This will allow flexible library space and a modern early years facility.”
Glasgow – Closure fears as dozens of Glasgow libraries shut down because of staff shortages – Yahoo Sport. Greens fear “closure by stealth”. “The information shows libraries shut for a whole day on 47 occasions last year and 19 times they closed for part of the day. The closures across the city were mainly on Saturdays.” … ” it is libraries in the most deprived areas that appear to be affected most.” Glasgow Life denies reduction in library access is deliberate.
Glasgow library helps get people online who don’t have internet – Glasgow Times. ““Thanks to the reopening of the Castlemilk Library and the £484,000 refit it means a lot of people in my ward, in particular, and I’m sure this is the case across a lot of wards in Glasgow are able to access the internet which is becoming crucial for people with their everyday lives.”
PlayTalkRead scheme proves a hit at Greenock South West Library – Greenock Telegraph. “PlayTalkRead is part of a wider range of support provided for parents and families through the Scottish Government’s Parent Club” … “Smart Play Network runs drop in sessions for play, story time, singing and messy play and targeted and sensory block bookings.”
Stirling – First community-owned library built in generations opens in Strathblane – BBC. “The Thomas Graham Community Library, which was partly financed by crowdfunding, is part of a £1m hub that includes meeting and social facilities. Almost 300 local families invested, with the majority of funding coming from local businessman Angus Graham.”
Suffolk – Long Melford Library still searching for new home as suspension of services in village continues– Suffolk News. “The branch’s regular activities were forced to stop at short notice after the library’s host venue, the Royal British Legion building in Cordell Road, announced that it was closing down with immediate effect in January.” Suffolk Libraries say “we want to reassure everyone that we are 100 per cent committed to finding a replacement site in Long Melford”
Surrey – Grant is great news for our services – Surrey Comet. “The funding from Arts Council England’s (ACE) Libraries Improvement Fund will go towards transforming facilities at the Hook Centre in Chessington. ” More digital materials, integration with museum.
Baroness Elizabeth Sanderson is the chair of a new advisory panel that will inform the Government’s new public library strategy this year. Elizabeth, a life peer, although described as “independent”, sits on the Conservative benches, has advised Theresa May and has, well, before been a Mail on Sunday journalist for seventeen years. Given that is the case, and being it’s not an alternative universe, any advice to her has to be made being aware that there won’t be any significant extra funding (that is, more than is taken away via budget cuts) for library services. In addition, localism and lack or regulation are very much still the flavour of the month, so any proposals which require large amounts of money or new rules are not likely to be accepted. With all that in mind, here are my thoughts, on the understanding that if this was for someone in a government of a different colour, they would be very different:
A strategy that deals with attempts at censorship both in terms of stock and events. We’re seeing increasing attempts, especially by those on the fringe (anti-vaxxers, religious extremists) and others to stop anything too LGBT in the sector. It would be useful to have some thought on how to respond to such attacks. After all, even the Times, is questioning whether we’d prefer children to have advice from Pornhub instead.
The fines-free movement has, from being almost unknown in 2018, taken off at speed in the UK with 71 services now no longer charging money for late books. However, this is heavily skewed towards Scotland (two-thirds), Northern Ireland (all) and Wales (half) compared to just to a quarter in England. Encouragement to push for all library services to be fines-free would be good as this would be instantly popular, promote equality and, crucially, not result in huge extra costs. However, being budgets are very strict, some thought needs to be given to account for the small percentage of funding that they do bring in.
Back up the current law about all areas having a “comprehensive and efficient” library service.In addition, the lack of any actual standards for English public libraries is a bit embarrassing. I know this is the most unlikely of the suggestions to be carried out in practice but, remember, closing libraries is not a popular vote-winner.
Libraries Connected has proven to be a big success in sharing best practice and encouraging responses to challenges (e.g. Covid) on a national level. It needs to be continued.
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Libraries are a brilliant springboard for lending and providing information for others e.g. NHS information and heart monitors, covid tests. A push for this to be known to all government and agency services, to make it a case of think library first and only if that’s not possible create your own (expensive, reinvention of wheel) service instead would be good. This may both save money and provide extra funding for libraries.
Usage is changing since Covid but not declining. The big change is a sustained increase of e-lending. Some thought as to how services should pay for these as well as for printed stock would be useful as well as a way of encouraging publishers to reduce their (often inflated) library e-book prices and encourage all publishers to allow library lending.
A lot of libraries need refurbishment. This is especially true in the children’s areas, which are often too small compared to the adult areas and not exciting enough. The Libraries Improvement Fund has been a success in providing capital investment (rather than soon-forgotten events) to libraries and should be maintained and hopefully expanded.
A national public library website, LibraryOn, is being tested and will one day become public. This needs to be as public (rather than librarian) focused as possible, with some way of allowing minimum-clicks-needed access to finding book titles both in print and e-book form. It should also be maintained long-term.
That’s enough, for now, Baroness. Let me know if you want to know or are curious as to what I’d suggest if legislation, enforcement or funding are options.
The Future of Search Is Intelligent – Information Today. Libraries expert Phil Bradley on the impact of ChatGPT etc. “In summary, I hope that you’re concerned. Indeed, I rather hope that you may be slightly scared, because you should be” but “be concerned and scared, but also excited. Thing are changing very quickly, and it’s going to be a great ride”
The Guardian view on US book bans: time to fight back – Guardian. “The primary cost is to children denied appropriately selected books that could be life-affirming and life-changing – even, perhaps, life-saving. The chilling effect of challenges makes librarians and teachers second-guess their choices and cut book purchases.”
Libraries and archives: engaging communities with local heritage – Libraries Connected. Thursday 27 April 2pm to 2.15pm webinar. “Smartphone compatible history trails, and interactive community engagement platforms can bring library and archive collections to life”
Nadia on… Libraries – LeftLion. “Nottingham East MP and regular LeftLion columnist Nadia Whittome tells us why libraries are so important…”
Colombia – Of libraries, ruralities, and mycelia – Medium. ” the greatest value of libraries lies in how tremendously adaptable they can be. But their success depends on us. It depends on us removing stereotypes from our heads and limits from our eyes and hands, and being able to see mycelia where others see closed rooms and ordered shelves.”
Denmark – Children, reading culture and libraries: Building blocks for a better future – Christian Lauersen. “Being a Children’s Librarian is a crusade for a better future for us all.” We had four criteria for the new Children’s Library: it should not be made for children but with children; it should not be a playground – it should be a universe for stories, imagination, curiosity and community and a place where children and their families could meet books and library staff in an inspiring and inclusive environment; on a functional level it should be flexible and be able to hold different kind of activities; The collection should be made accessible from a children’s logic – not a librarian’s logic”
European Union – Recommendation on Library Legislation and Policy in Europe – EBLIDA. “This Recommendation reinforces active citizenship in a democratic environment and, beyond culture and education, focusses on the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development. It also reinforces the social dimension of libraries and their commitment towards a sustainable, democratic and equitable society.”
Ireland – ‘Not the country I left’: Cork man working in UK’s oldest LGBT bookshop proud of changed Ireland – Echo. “Amid the difficult period, however, staff are believed to be receiving overwhelming support in the form of everything from bouquets to letters and chocolates from members of the public who oppose the protests. And now, Ballinlough native Jim MacSweeney who is the manager of Gay’s The Word, in London, the UK’s longest-running LGBT bookshop, has also sent words of support from overseas.”
New Zealand – Libraries branching out for community wellbeing – NZ Herald. “Public libraries help local government enhance community wellbeing by fostering networks, providing spaces for people to gather and share knowledge and adapting services to respond to community needs.”. Incorporating Maori language “extremely important” … “The research noted that in an ideal future, libraries would be neutral safe spaces that anyone in the community could access. Libraries should be involved in local and national decision-making, and receive national funds.
Missouri state House Republicans vote to defund public libraries – Salon. “Republicans are retaliating against a librarians’ organization for suing the state over a law on book banning”. $4.5 million cut after attempts to overturn censorship. $2000 fine or up to one year in prison for library staff who do not censor.
Naturalist-in-Residence – Madison Public Library. “The Naturalist-in-Residence will facilitate outdoor programming in Madison’s diverse natural areas, including outdoor library spaces, for community members of all ages.”
The Week in Libraries: April 14, 2023 – for a full summary of all the censorship in USA libraries this week plus other news including $1.4m embezzlement at one library
Local news by authority
Aberdeen – Aberdeen campaigners claim library and pool closures ‘may be unlawful’– Aberdeen Live. “Activists say they could seek a judicial review after experts from Govan Law Centre and Grampian Community Law Centre advised them that the closures ‘appear to be unlawful in relation to recent Scottish case law” … “”Our legal advice is that the council has failed to undertake proper equality impact assessments in relation to the impact closure will have on local people with protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act”
Bath and North East Somerset – Paulton librarians say goodbye to their community librarian, Helen – Journal Gazette. “The Library Hub was a new departure for BANES Library Service, staffing it full time with a combination of professional librarians and a team of volunteers.” … “The volunteer team was originally trained in basic library tasks masterminded by Helen, who was then also manager of the three local libraries.”
Have you got your tickets yet? Come celebrate @WorldBookNight with us and @blackliver4 with their ‘Support Your Local Library! A Gothic Pub Rock Opera’
Bromley – Bromley libraries issue the most books in London– News Shopper. “Refurbishment works are soon to commence at both West Wickham and St Paul’s Cray Library, with both library services being temporarily relocated to accommodate the works.”
Croydon – Council’s £150,000 for digital zone with 12 libraries part-closed – Inside Croydon. “Of the 13 libraries, only one, Central, operates anything like “normally”, and is open for five days each week. Of the others, some are open just two days each week, as a consequence of the council spending cuts.” … “The council provided no other information about how the six-figure sum is to be spent, nor explaining what “an energy-efficient, accessible digital discovery zone” might offer to library users.”
East Dunbartonshire – No more fees for late return of borrowed library items – East Dunbartonshire Council. ““We want to make EDLC libraries a welcoming place for everyone and to encourage East Dunbartonshire residents of all ages to come in and see what their local library has to offer. We know these are financially challenging times so please don’t be put off returning to your local library if you are late to return an overdue book.”
Glasgow – Libraries could offer free tea and coffee under new proposals – STV. “It comes after some libraries served up the hot drinks during the winter period after becoming ‘welcome places’ to help battle the cost of living crisis. The move was a “big hit” and “very popular” a council meeting heard as councillors discussed a vision for the cities libraries and welcomed a £10m investment that has been poured into the buildings.”
“We would struggle to take the tea and coffee away in some of those venues now. I think it is a service that has been introduced that is very popular.”
Andrew Olney, Glasgow Life director of libraries, sport and communities
Moray – Information Hub scheme rolled out to all Moray libraries– Northern Scot. Help with council services. “The Warm Havens initiative benefitted from extended opening hours in all libraries, meaning that there were open for a total of 92 extra hours per week. This enabled more people to go to them, resulting in an additional 7,000 new library memberships.” … “As well as a warm welcome and advice, libraries are now part of the National Databank to provide 500 free SIM cards in Newham every month”
We are introducing a brand new shelving system, extensively researched by world renowned bibliographical scientists, over a period of 17 years. All this to provide YOU, our customer, with the ultimate browsing experience! pic.twitter.com/ly2yzudYCs
— Oxfordshire Libraries (@Oxonlibraries) April 1, 2023
Sandwell – Community hubs pilot at Blackheath and West Bromwich Central libraries – Sandwell Council. Weekly sessions. “Available at the hub sessions will be customer service advisors, a housing officer, revenue and benefits advisors via Teams and webchat, and a staff member from the Healthy Sandwell team in Public Health, plus library staff on hand to support residents who need any face-to-face support.”
Warwickshire – Customers set to benefit from new look Warwick Library – Warwickshire Council. “A new sensory area to encourage library use by children and adults with additional needs. Relocating the children’s area to provide additional space and create a focal point to the library. Creating a lighter, more welcoming space with an improved customer flow”
Worcestershire – Worcestershire Libraries handing out 500 free books– Worcestershire Council. “The copies of the bestselling novel ‘Paris for One’ are being donated by Worcestershire County Council’s Library Service to coincide with World Book Night which is on April 23. The books will be distributed at locations across the county, including the Refugee Resettlement Programme, Breastfeeding Groups and Ukraine English Classes, as part of Worcestershire Libraries’ service commitment to promoting literacy and fostering a love for reading. “
One of the many fascinating things about public libraries is that they’re so very diverse. In the UK, and in many other parts of the world, each library service (or the council or other body that controls it) is effectively its own kingdom, with its own rules and norms. This is shown by variation in even neighbouring services: requirements to join (normally one of three, with no evidence of a connection between it and theft rates – none, one, two including proof of address), fines (from, increasingly, none, to sky’s the limit), number of loans (anything from normally 6 or 8 to limitless), stock (size and composition), how to loan (self-service or staffed), size of library per thousand population, staffing (staffless, unpaid, paid but none professionally qualified, etc). Really, there’s no end to it. Moreover, each individual library within a service often has its own character, depending on neighbourhood, building and even the personalities of those working there. And, of course, in England even more diverse. After all, England quite literally has no standards when it comes to libraries. Which means that the individual library offer can appear pretty darn random at times.
So it’s not surprising that an organisation like GLL/Better has wide variations, even in one week of news. Recent statistics and surveys reported by GLL shows its libraries to have some of the highest usage in England along with high satisfaction rates. On the other hand, the situation in Dudley – which it runs on behalf of the council there – is looking pretty dire. The council is looking to cut it so much that only 2 or 3 of the current 13 libraries may still be open in three years. It’s worthwhile pointing out that this has nothing to do with GLL – it’s the council that decides these things – but still it’s interesting how different things can be even within services run by the same organisation. And it’s a reminder that diversity represents a rainbow, from the brightest to the darkest colours.
Farewell Ridgmount Street, hello British Library – CILIP. “Our needs have changed and, accelerated by the pandemic, CILIP was occupying less than 15% of its total floorspace and was landlord to 9 tenant organisations. Much of our work is now online, with staff working remotely and positive feedback from members about our new-found decentralised role.”
Libraries and archives: engaging communities with local heritage – Libraries Connected / Eventbrite. Thursday 27 April 2pm, online. “This forthcoming webinar will take an in-depth look at innovative digital local history and community projects that inspire, connect communities and provoke debate.”
Canada – Okanagan Regional Library receives $1.6 million from province – Penticton Western News. “The funds are part of $45 million the province has earmarked for libraries throughout B.C., funding which was announced March 24. All 71 B.C. public libraries, and organizations that help libraries deliver their services, will receive one-time grants in addition to their annual operating funding. This aims to give libraries flexibility to address local priorities including longer hours, bigger digital collections and better access to literacy and lifelong learning opportunities.”
Global – The technology career ladder – Lorcan Dempsey. “Library leaders should be drawn from across the organization. Any idea that technology leaders are overly specialised or too distant from general library work is outmoded and counter-productive.” Academic library focused but some relevant points.
Public libraries are critical social infrastructure – Press Reader. “Contemporary libraries are the lifeline for communities in times of crisis. But as sociologist Eric Klinenberg noted in the New York Times, libraries are criticized and abandoned at the exact moment when they are most needed because “the founding principle of the public library — that all people deserve free, open access to our shared culture and heritage — is out of sync with the market logic that dominates our world. It’s also because so few influential people understand the expansive role that libraries play in modern communities.”
“I’m so saddened that this level of behaviour has now perpetrated Irish public libraries. But I am also not wholly shocked as despite a massive change in public attitudes to LGBTQIA+ rights, and bodily autonomy from when I grew up there in the 80s and 90s, there is still a religious and conservative undercurrent that has more influence than people realise. I am also disgusted that librarians are being targeted, as librarianship was always seen as a respected profession in Ireland – far more so than in the UK. I found that out very quickly to my huge disappointment when I moved here. I am proud of the librarians who are standing up for young people’s access to material but angered that the councils are hiding behind parental consent beyond the initial sign up. No-one ever policed my choice of books growing up in the library. Outside of it though, I remember the uproar in primary school of us sharing Judy Blume books secretly through the senior classes. They treated her books like moral semtex. Hiding and culling books on LGBTQIA issues entrenches shame and limits young people from accepting their whole selves. That’s what it used to be like in Ireland when church and state controlled the narrative. We can’t go back there again.”
Email about the current attempts at censorship in Irish libraries received
New Zealand – Libraries branching out for community wellbeing– Hawke’s Bay Today.“The literature, which was not only from New Zealand, but also Australia, the US and the UK, showed the expanding roles and responsibilities of public libraries that wasn’t yet reflected in many policy decisions, nor in the allocation of central funding.”
Library Eliminates Fines and Receives More than $400,000 Worth of Returns – I Love Libraries. “In January, Houston City Council voted to eliminate fines at HPL to encourage residents to use the library after seeing a decline in users. HPL held an amnesty period from January 18 to February 17 to allow users to return overdue books and materials and start over with a clean account. The results were astonishing: 3,098 customers had their overdue fines wiped during the amnesty period and returned 21,245 items—$425,000 worth of books and other materials. HPL cleared patron accounts with balances as high as $1,000 and even received three books checked out in 1992.”
Bexley – The Nest Community Building and new Thamesmead Library are now open – Bexley Council. “The impressive new building is the second new library to open in the borough in recent months. The new Sidcup Storyteller opened in December last year. Along with the usual library services, including free wifi and meeting rooms, the new library will offer a regular programme of events and activities. It is part of a Community Building that is already home to community groups and local organisations as well as a hub for Peabody’s communities team, which will be working with the Council to support local people.”
Blaenau Gwent – Libraries in Blaenau Gwent handing out home-growing kits – South Wales Argus. “Each veg library includes ‘pick and mix’ pots filled with different seeds, and envelopes that families can fill with the seeds of their choice to take home. “The idea is for people to have a go at growing some veg at home, in response to the recent food shortages and spiralling food prices,””
Devon –Much-loved Ashburton Library moves to newly-refurbished space – Devon Live. “The much-loved community space is moving to a new upstairs location at its existing location at 4 Lawrence Lane. The move makes way for the Ashburton Hub to invite community banks to use the lower floor, and will give a dedicated upstairs space to the town’s library.”
In the next 3yrs, Dudley Council plans to cut 30% from its libraries & archives budget. This means closing branches, reducing hours, or cutting staff.@UnisonDudley plans to oppose this attack on our services. Msg support to dudley_unison@msn.com@TUCBham@NeuDudley@wylie_alanpic.twitter.com/cwI2F25mky
Fears raised about the future of Dudley’s libraries – Dudley News. “Dudley Council has proposed nearly £1.5 million in savings on library services over the next few years.” … opposition says ““With the additional £1 million paid to GLL in 2021, the library contract has cost the council £4,230,000 since 2017, but it has not achieved the projected savings and the number of library users have declined significantly due to GLL’s mismanagement.””
Greenwich – Record numbers of visitors to South London libraries ranked busiest in the UK – London News Online. “Residents are making the most of the 12 libraries in Greenwich, the borough ranking as the location with the most visits compared to its population. Woolwich Centre Library also stood out nationally by being the second busiest library in the UK. 547,440 people walked through its doors between 2020 and 2021.”
Gwynedd – Gwynedd Libraries Service announces vision for next five years – In Your Area. VR Hubs plus “Development of the Library of Things – People can borrow useful things for their homes and more, for example, tools, electrical items and toys. It saves money and is less harmful to the environment than buying new and using only once. The library, known as Petha, will be available at the Dyffryn Ogwen, Penygroes and Blaenau Ffestiniog Libraries. Improving Penygroes Library – Thanks to the grant from the Welsh Government Transformation Capital Grant Scheme, the space at Penygroes Library will be improved and improvements at the Dyffryn Ogwen library will also include a new wellbeing garden.”
Hertfordshire – Cuffley Community Library Open Day – Hertfordshire Council. First year anniversary of volunteers. “We are proud to celebrate our achievements over the past year and have a special day planned that will appeal to all our visitors”
Kent – 200 protest to save Folkestone Library – Socialist Party. “Local activists spread the word for a protest and within 24 hours of the call, a demonstration of around 120 people gathered outside the library demanding that it must be kept open. Anger against the threatened closure has spread quickly, shown by the support for the ‘Save Folkestone Library’ Facebook page.” … “We decided that the pressure must be maintained and so we called another demonstration and rally. Over 200 people, mums and children, young and old, marched …”
Lancashire – Lancashire Libraries are supporting voters to be election ready – Lancashire Council. “Lancashire Libraries will be offering trained staff to help people navigate the voting application process. Voters who require support when registering to vote can visit their local library. Staff will be available to help people access the website and apply. Support is also being offered by libraries across Lancashire to help voters complete their Voter Authority Certificate application. An appointment may be required in advance.”
In a Tory world addicted to library closures, this is important and wonderful to see. Manchester’s beautiful central library today. Packed with young people quietly studying @MancLibrariespic.twitter.com/cP918qQZZK
Nottinghamshire – Introducing your new and improved Harworth and Bircotes Library – Inspire Culture. Library Improvement Fund: “Nottinghamshire County Council, partnering with Inspire were awarded £170,000 to create community hubs in Nottinghamshire, transforming the buildings into flexible welcoming spaces for communities to use and enjoy.”
Slough – Slough libraries see new opening times – Slough and South Bucks Observer. “Under the new schedule, a minimum of one library will be open every Saturday. In February Slough Borough Council agree to make changes to the schedule to make savings and streamline the service offered. Since April 1, The Curve, Langley, Britwell and Cippenham are predominantly running as self-service. Library hours have also been amended, while the publications budget of £90,000 has been maintained.”
Our #ToyLibrary has a range of toys to spark imaginations!
Wild Reads 2023 collection launches – Suffolk Libraries. “a new book collection and a five-month programme of themed events and activities created by Suffolk Libraries and Suffolk Wildlife Trust.”
Tameside – Story Makers – Sunny and Rainy Days – Tameside Council. “The project, which was made possible by funding from Tameside Community Safety Partnership, was organised by Tameside Libraries.”
Wandsworth – New look bigger and better Northcote Library opening soon – Wandsworth Council. “The existing 1960s-era Northcote library is being replaced with a larger and better equipped public library and community centre offering a wider range of services. Construction work is now virtually complete on its modern three storey replacement that will offer a dedicated and improved children’s section, enlarged study accommodation, self-serve kiosks for book loans, upgraded computer and digital learning areas, an events space and restroom facilities. The new Northcote library will provide 848 square metres of usable floor space compared with the existing library’s 728 sqm. It will also incorporate eco-friendly energy measures including solar panels – reducing its carbon footprint and making the new building more sustainable”
It’s not often that I get to report on Scottish public library closures. This is because, well, there aren’t that many Scottish library closures. Aberdeen, however, is bucking the trend by closing six libraries, despite sizeable opposition. The amount of money saved is £280k. Meanwhile, the same council is putting an art installation in, right next to a closing library, for £155k. So, there’s priorities for you. The new First Minister of Scotland had, as one of his first duties, the need to respond to why this happened with a SNP council in charge of Aberdeen. His response was not overly reassuring.
In other news, the beta version of LibraryOn is now open for people to look at. It’s hard to tell with such things and unfair to give an opinion on an unfinished product so I will refrain from commenting on it yet.
The normal madness in US libraries is continuing, with Republicans now trying to withdraw funding from public libraries because there’s some fight back over censoring stock. This, as Judy Blume notes this week, is a dark time for America and is downright embarrassing to look at. Great also to see Wil Wheaton getting in on the act. Not embarrassing at all, though, is a nice new library song to have a listen to. I’m also loving the Somerset idea of lending out activity monitoring watches.
BFI Replay – BFI. “BFI Replay is a free-to-access digital archive exclusively available in UK public lending libraries. Thousands of digitised videos and television programmes from the BFI National Archive and partner UK regions and nations film archives are available to browse and enjoy, research or study – with some familiar and memorable, others rare and unseen for decades. If you are a UK lending library service and would be interested in knowing more about the service, use our enquiry form below.”
The Buildings of Philanthropist John Passmore Edwards – Historic England. “Over 70 buildings were constructed in 14 years due to his dedicated philanthropy, including libraries, literary institutes and art galleries.”. 19 libraries for 19 letters: “Taking advantage of the 1850 Free Libraries Act, he pursued opportunities for public self advancement. His ambition was to build a library for every letter of his name. The 1850 Act gave local councils the power to establish libraries open to everyone without a subscription, and many councils had technical schools for science and art.”
Are you a public library manager in England or Wales? Do you have an interest in audiobook usage during and after the pandemic? Please consider taking part in this survey from my master's student @CILIPinfo@CILIPNE@publiclibnewshttps://t.co/I8r2JfhZkp
In celebration of small & thoughtful innovation – Artefacto. “Consider the significance of the fine-free library policy. This relatively minor adjustment has had a profound impact on making the library more inclusive and equitable.” …
Libraries Strategy Update – DCMS. “Baroness Sanderson began a series of 9 in-depth discussion sessions with a wide range of people – both within and outside the sector – looking at the successes of the sector as well as the challenges confronting it and possibilities for the future. These sessions are taking place in libraries all over the country from Ipswich to Leeds, focusing on one of the 7 strategic outcomes in Ambition, plus sessions on libraries governance and ‘blue sky thinking’.” … ” The conversations have been wide ranging and thought provoking covering issues such as the need for improved data collection to better showcase the impact of public libraries, how libraries can most effectively raise awareness of their local and national offer and the importance of seeing libraries as an investment rather than a cost.”
LibraryOn– Site now in Beta, with very limited functionality. Includes LibraryMap to show where your nearest library is (many links not working correctly as of yet). Become a Beta tester here. Includes grants for public libraries.
Musician Natalie Merchant, poet Victoria Adukwei Bulley, library funding – BBC. “Libraries were awarded the smallest amount of money from the Cultural Investment Fund, which was announced last week. Front Row speaks to Nick Poole, Chief Executive of CILIP, the Library and Information Association.”
£5.8 million project to deliver a more sustainable future for Open Access books – University of Lancaster. “Led by Lancaster University, the Open Book Futures (OBF) project will develop and support organisations, tools and practices that enable both academics and the wider public to make more and better use of books published on an Open Access basis. “
International news
“Sarah Brimelow is offering a short, fun video to any group that wants to promote their library service. You can view it here. It was made by her partner, ‘part-time musician’ John Phillips. He says: ‘During lockdown I started making videos to accompany my home recordings. I was inspired to make “My Local Library” because I was impressed with the range of services offered at Grove Vale Library in Southwark, and concerned about the threatened loss of libraries to local communities in the UK.””
Global – Public Library of the Year – Systematic. “To qualify in 2023, the library must be built and opened between January 1st 2022 and December 31st 2022. “
USA – Judy Blume worried about intolerance and book banning in the US – BBC. “I came through the 80s when book banning was really at its height. And it was terrible. And then libraries and schools began to get policies in place and we saw a falling off of the desire to censor books. Now it is back, it is back much worse …”
Libraries Need More Freedom to Distribute Digital Books – Atlantic. ” if Controlled Digital Lending sought to provide an alternative pathway for the possession and use of digital books, it did so only after a new, highly constrained marketplace arose that disadvantages the mission of libraries. The frustration libraries feel about this state of affairs has reached a high enough level that bills are making their way through a number of state legislatures trying to regulate the library-ebook market.”
“The library is a safe place.” – Wil Wheaton Dot Net. “Why libraries? Because the library is so much more than a building with lots of books, internet access, 3D printers, D&D programs for kids, and all the other things. The library represents and offers equal access for everyone to all of those things. Not just the wealthy. Not just the privileged. Not just the in-group. It is a safe place for everyone to be curious, to find inspiration, to sit in the stacks, as far away from the door and the world as possible, and just quietly exist for a minute. (Don’t you love the way those books smell?) The public library is a safe place for all of us, whether we are a kid who feels invisible, a woman who is lost, or a New York Times bestselling author who has the privilege of sharing their story with you.”
“… Equally, it is often the case that members across the chamber quite rightly believe, as I do, that decisions for a local authority should be made by the local authority. Aberdeen City Council’s plan to close libraries will be extremely difficult for the library staff and the community. However, we recognise the financial challenges that local authorities are facing.” Aberdeen – Humza Yousaf Scottish National Party
Aberdeen – Anger as council confirms plans to close libraries and swimming pool – STV News. “An emergency meeting was held at the Town Hall in Aberdeen for councillors to have a second vote on budget cuts. Following deliberations, the decision was confirmed by a vote of 24-21.It meant plans to close Bucksburn Pool and Cults, Kaimhill, Woodside, Northfield, Cornhill and Ferryhill libraries were confirmed. Protesters said they won’t stop their fight, despite being unable to voice their concerns at Monday’s meeting.”
Understandable tears in Woodside as it closes its doors for what @aberdeen_cc want to be for the last time. A library that was entrusted to the council to be of service to the community and nothing else. Aberdeen’s oldest library filled with local history.
Opinion: Not just books – Public libraries and their role in communities – Robert Gordon University. “The public library quality framework for Scotland, ‘How good is our public library service?’ helps to inform what ‘adequate’ might look like by suggesting that it is a ‘planned strategic network of branches offering core functions’. The danger with piecemeal reactive cuts to branches as part of annual budget-setting processes is that services end up without that ‘planned strategic network’ of libraries, delivering services to communities for whom it really matters.”
Scotland’s Makar slams ‘uniquely cold’ move to shut Aberdeen libraries – National. “She said it meant communities would be deprived of literature and learning and insisted Scottish philanthropist Andrew Carnegie – who donated money to build thousands of libraries – would be “spinning in his grave”.As Makar, I’m dismayed to hear of Aberdeen Council’s determination to close six local libraries,” said Jamie.“There is something uniquely cold and shrivelling about closing down libraries.”
Six libraries to close in Aberdeen, despite efforts to save them – Guardian. “Many of the buildings are in deprived areas, say Save Aberdeen Libraries, while Aberdeen City Council argues facilities will be moved to cheaper ‘hubs’”. SNP says “We’re closing buildings, we’re not reducing library facilities and services,” the newspaper reported him as saying. “For example, the one in Torry – we’re closing the building but the Torry library service will go into a hub in the school two minutes walk away. We’re closing buildings which are old, expensive to heat and need staff, so we’re co-locating the service in schools and community centres.””
SLIC criticises Aberdeen City Council’s decision to close six libraries – BookSeller. “Pamela Tulloch, SLIC chief executive, told The Bookseller that the decision “demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of what a library service is by those elected members who voted to close one third of the Aberdeen’s public libraries”.”
We're excited to welcome you back to Roundhouse Library next week for our official reopening, and we have lots of fun things planned to mark the day.
Join us on Tuesday (4 April) to explore our newly refurbished library spaces, join up and find out what's on offer in your area. pic.twitter.com/XsnwNMXvGg
Brighton and Hove – Relaunching Brighton & Hove’s toy library – Brighton and Hove Council. “An additional smaller toy collection has been set up in Coldean Library and a new satellite toy library established at Portslade to provide wider accessibility for residents. Toy libraries are a fantastic way to keep your toy box full without breaking the bank, provide mental stimulation to your child, make friends and meet new people. “
Devon – Unlocking the Cage at Tavi Library – Tavistock Today. “The installation features a uniquely designed book which you use to navigate your journey. With the turn of each page, narration, original music and stunning animations bring the stories to life. The exhibit can be enjoyed alone or in groups of up to four people at a time, taking around 28 minutes to complete, no need to book. Find out more at librariesevolve.org.uk”
Future uncertain for Devon’s mobile library service – BBC. “The mobile library vans were “expensive to maintain” and “far fewer” people now used them, Devon County Council said.Roger Croad, the council’s cabinet member for communities, said three of the county’s four vans were coming to the “end of their serviceable lives”.Replacing them would cost between £500,000 and £800,000, Mr Croad said.” … “Despite an uncertain future for the mobile service, a report to the committee revealed that, across the whole library service in Devon, the number of visitors and active library users had continued to increase.” Consultation.
Kent – Save Folkestone Library – Facebook group. “Kent County Council have announced the planned closure of our 135 year old library, one of the last free, warm, communal safe spaces in Folkestone. The library was gifted to the people of Folkestone, and is not Kent County Council’s to sell. We must fight back.”
Lincolnshire – Works start on Boston Library building this April – Lincolnshire Council. “Boston Library is based in the County Hall building in the town centre. The private owner of the building is carrying out extensive work over the coming months to turn a large part of the building into a hotel. As part of these works, the area occupied by the library needs to be made stand-alone, to separate it internally from the hotel.”
Merton – Mitcham Library receives funding boost for education and digital hub – Merton Council. Library Improvement Funding. “The funding will make adaptations to the building to increase access using self-service technology (already deployed at our four branch sites) and create a makerspace using 3D printing, coding and virtual reality equipment, a large TV screen and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) resources. “
Nottingham – Council has spent £24,000 storing books amid fit-out of new Central Library – Notts TV. “Nottingham City Council opted to retire the facility and keep it closed during the development of the new £10.5m Central Library, which forms part of the new Broadmarsh Car Park and Bus Station. Residents have been left without a main city library ever since, and the project to build a new one has been hit with numerous delays.”
Nottinghamshire – £1.2 million for rural gigabit broadband for libraries and schools through devolution deal – Nottinghamshire Council. “The Government have made £1.2 million of funding available for new gigabit broadband for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby, and Nottingham. It means that an extra 118 rural public sector schools and libraries will be connected to gigabit broadband. When complete, it will help librarians and teachers and allow whole classes to be online at once with no interruptions.”
Somerset – Somerset libraries offering activity tracker by SASP – Bridgwater Mercury. “Each Activity Tracker Watch can be loaned completely free for up to six weeks and every watch is cleared of all the data and information when you return it, ensuring your privacy isn’t compromised.”
Suffolk – Discover your new favourite reads with Suffolk Libraries DiscoveReads programme – Suffolk Libraries. “DiscoveReads is a reading programme launched by Suffolk Libraries in 2020 to help people broaden their reading horizons and find exciting new reading experiences. It includes a lively Facebook discussion group with nearly 700 members, and each month the group discusses an unlimited audiobook title on our free BorrowBox service.”
Swindon – Library becomes first in town to abolish late fees for under 10s – Yahoo News. Old Town Library. “Until now, only children aged between 0-4 were exempt from late fees, but that is now being extended to all children aged 10 and under in a year-long trial.” … “”Families tell me they are already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis, and while they like to use the library the fear of overdue fines is a barrier to them letting their children borrow.”
Wiltshire – New chapter as library officially opens at new home – Yahoo News. Durrington: “The library has been relocated to the Robinson Room at Durrington Village Hall, a much-anticipated feat made possible by Wiltshire Council. The previous location was a well-used portacabin which had reached the end of its structural life. The new home will help to preserve the future of the library and the essential services that it provides to local residents.”
Wirral – Extended opening hours to return to Wirral libraries – Wirral Globe. “The four central libraries at Bebington, Birkenhead, Wallasey and West Kirby will be open until 7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Monday, April 3. Six community libraries will also have extended hours to include opening on four weekdays, plus every Saturday morning. This improved offer provides an additional 91 hours per week across the library service and improve residents’ access to books, technology, study space and all other services provided at the local library.”
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