Ian Anstice

Editorial

The Westminster Hall debate about public libraries this week showed how the sector is currently viewed by MPs. Basically, after one strips out the stuff about how great the libraries are in their own constituency or how the other political parties are so rubbish, the key take away is that those interested enough to show up to this debate on public libraries, are in support of public libraries. There’s a revelation. Sarcasm aside, it is good to see that there is a push for a more national plan for libraries, even though one has to laugh at how urgently the Conservative shadow minister is now taking it, now that his party is no longer in office after 14 years.

The media release by CILIP accompanying the debate shows where the sector leaders want the government to do. Which is basically to recognise that they serve a significant role in helping out with various major problems the country has and that so the various government departments tasked with dealing with those problems should pay them more attention, and start giving them money. Because, basically, cutting any service’s funding by 53% (before inflation is considered) is not showing much support.

The government response, I thought, was a classic of the genre. The outgoing minister, Chris Bryant, who was invisible in the job, pointed out he had visited lots of libraries, including several non-public ones, in his life and how the Conservatives were worse than he was. Chris also regretted that he can promise nothing because, what a shame, the revolving door of library ministers means he’s now escaped his non-functioning role and that the government’s new non-elected appointee will take a while to get up to speed on what a public library is and the impact of more halving its funding may have had. He also did a good job of playing ministerial bingo by saying that libraries got millions from local councils and how difficult is to do anything with libraries being controlled by so many different people. Well done Chris.

Just to show what impact such cuts have had and, to be fair, the societal change since 2010, my thanks to Tim Coates who has helped visualise for me recent figures from the DCMS and CIPFA. It shows, if one takes Covid into account, a reasonably unbroken decline in usage. The figures also show how dependent libraries are on super-users, with 82% of visits done by only 9% of the population

It’s interesting to see that books dominate reasons for using the libraries, despite the continuing trend to downplay that in council press release after press release. But the amount of people using libraries for computers and private study is impressive as well.

And, then, finally, we have the list of what is happening to the physical libraries. Interestingly, 345 have been outsourced to private companies, although the vast majority of these – possibly all – are to non-profits. And then of course there’s hundreds to volunteers. So there’s been a large amount of atomisation to the service.

It’s clear where the direction of travel is for public libraries based on these figures. Which is why it’s so important that such debates happen in parliament and that the sector and its allies keeps shouting. Every single MP would say they support public libraries. It’s just financially supporting them, and co-ordinating them, that they have difficulty with. That needs to change if we want a future for public libraries.

Changes by authority

• Caerphilly – Confirmed that 10 libraries (Aberbargoed, Abercarn, Abertridwr, Bedwas, Deri, Llanbradach, Machen, Nelson, Oakdale, and Pengam) will close on August 31.
• Nottingham – Radford-Lenton Library to become “”centralised stock hub” featuring a scaled-down library service. Aspley, Basford and Bilborough Libraries to be run by non-profit Castle Cavendish.
• Slough – Threatened libraries will not close but may change model.

National news

Big Tasty Read Webinar – Reading Agency. “This webinar is for libraries and bookshops to find out how you can get involved in celebrating the Big Tasty Read in summer 2025.” May 22, 10am.

• Call for an ambitious National Strategy to safeguard and strengthen public library services – CILIP (media release). “Across political parties, MPs call for a National Strategy for Public Libraries to unlock the full potential of library services across England during a Westminster Hall debate, tabled by Jonathan Davies MP. Public libraries are vital civic infrastructure, but for over a decade they have been undermined by sustained cuts, closures and a lack of strategic direction. The call for a national strategy is backed by CILIP … Libraries Connected, and ASCEL … who represent the public library workforce, Heads of Service, and children and young people’s library service leaders respectively.” … “Public library funding has fallen 53% since 2010. There has been a net loss of 276 libraries since 2016, at a rate of about 40 a year. Poorer areas are four times more likely to lose a library, where libraries are often the last remaining free and trusted local service anybody can just walk into. Over 2,200 professional library jobs have been lost. “. Calls for:

• Sustained investment in digital infrastructure and skills with DSIT
• Expansion of early literacy and education programmes with DfE
• Support for library-based business and innovation hubs with DBT
• Formal partnerships between the NHS and public health services with DHSC
• Funding to enable cross-sector collaboration between different types of libraries
• A sustainable, place-based investment model
• Stronger ministerial leadership and cross-government coordination
• Clearer accountability for government’s statutory superintendence and improvement duties
• Public consultation to shape the future of public library services

“Public libraries are one of our country’s most trusted and transformative services. They foster curiosity and provide knowledge, but also connect communities, unlock opportunity, and boost our economy — often quietly, and always with deep impact. They are already contributing so much to this government’s missions, but that contribution is not fully understood or acknowledged. I called this debate to make the case for a national data hub to help us understand the enormous contributions that libraries make, and for a joined-up, long-term strategy that gives public libraries the recognition and investment they deserve.” Jonathan Davies MP

“Local councils have done all they can to keep libraries open, but after years of funding cuts many services are stretched to breaking point.” Isobel Hunter, Libraries Connected.

• Fully Funded Bursaries – CILIP Conference. List of bursaries available. Cheapest one-day package otherwise is £340 or £625 for two days.
• Future of Public Libraries – They Work For You. Jonathan Davies MP says “in the face of an explosion of misinformation and a rapidly changing world, that libraries have become a rare beacon of trustworthy information where we can build our knowledge and skills with confidence.” Liberal Democrats push for more funding for rural libraries. Haringey uses evening culture events to promote use. Derbyshire saw £625k cuts. “Derbyshire now has a Reform-led council. We know very little about Reform’s priorities for the authority or how it will run services”. Northern Irish libraries lauded by DUP MP. Volunteer libraries in Bath and North East Somerset commended by Lib Dem MP. Mobile libraries should be supported. Kent Libraries have been severely cut but new Reform leader of council has said they should “appoint some sort of DOGE””. Redbridge Libraries have a combined gym. Conservative MP in Hertfordshire says that new libraries should open. Libraries have role in improving mental health and combatting loneliness. Cuts in Lib Dem-run Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole. Labour MP commends volunteer libraries in North Yorkshire. Chris Bryant MP, the ex minister for libraries, mentions he has used three non-public libraries (British, the private London Library and even Lambeth Palace), along with public ones, and says “Last year, upper-tier local authorities spent £694 million on libraries in England.” [Bingo point – Ed.] and “One of the difficulties with a national strategy is that so much is devolved” Decisions deferred until Baroness Twycross has sufficient time in her new post.

“I know the Minister will not be able to commit to putting more money into libraries, without a strong evidence base for what it will achieve. That strikes at the heart of the problem. We do not know what the extent of public library provision is. We do not know where it is, what it does and what it could do.” Jonathan Davies MP

“I have loved libraries since I was five, although I admit that a library was also the first place I ever got fined” Chris Kane MP

“When most people think of libraries, they picture buildings in disrepair—defunct, disused and on the verge of imminent closure” Jas Athwal MP

“we are disappointed that the Minister, Baroness Twycross, has so far avoided giving a direct answer to a direct question on this matter, so I ask the Minister here today: when will his Department publish a strategy for English public libraries, as many Members have called for?” Louie French MP

• Greater Manchester has best library access via public transport in the country – Mancunian Matters. “Up to 60% of Greater Manchester residents live within 15 minutes of public libraries, Ordnance Survey data has revealed. The data studied bus, tram and train routes all over the area, including Stockport and Trafford. The study, published in October 2024, demonstrated that 29% of Bolton residents and 61% of Salford residents are all within easy access of their local libraries.”
• How libraries can support blind and partially sighted communities  – Reading Agency.
• Libraries celebrate success of regional funding – Libraries Connected. £90,000 grant from “The Combined Regions”, “an organisation that promotes co-operation between UK libraries”. Each region is doing it’s own separate project.
• Libraries Change Lives – CILIP. 2-8 June. “Libraries Change Lives is an advocacy campaign capturing and celebrating the impact of libraries, putting the sector on a public platform where libraries, library staff and library users can showcase the value of their service – both locally and nationally. “
• Power in partnerships: Libraries, charities, MPs, businesses – Good Things Foundation. “Good Things Foundation and our strategic partner Vodafone met with James Frith MP in Bury Library to find out more about how they’re tackling digital inclusion locally.” … “Visits to digital inclusion hubs like Bury Library bring to life the impact that digital inclusion is having on people’s lives, giving them that essential connection to the digital world. Partnerships like ours with Vodafone and the dedication of places like Bury Library are absolutely vital in making sure no one gets left behind in our increasingly digital society.”

International news

• Ireland -My Little Library Book Bag at Louth Library Service – Drogheda Life. ” Libraries Ireland has put together a free bag of books and resources that can be collected from library branches through County Louth. The ‘My Little Library Book Bag’ initiative is a collaboration between libraries, the Department of Rural and Community Development, and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth as part of the First 5 Strategy. ‘My Little Library Book Bag’ is available free for every child starting school in 2025 to help them prepare for this big step.”
• USA – Copyright Office head fired after reporting AI training isn’t always fair use – Ars Technica. Fired after report published saying AI companies cannot use all the data they don’t own on the internet to train their AIs.
  • Librarians, supporters rail against new regime at Alabama Public Library Service – Alabama Political Reporter.
  • Two Trump appointees escorted out of Library of Congress amid White House takeover, report says – Independent. “Donald Trump’s termination of Register of Copyrights, Shira Perlmutter, is a brazen, unprecedented power grab with no legal basis. It is surely no coincidence he acted less than a day after she refused to rubber-stamp Elon Musk’s efforts to mine troves of copyrighted works to train AI models”
  • Want to reduce crime? Science says: build more libraries. – Lit Hub. “Our results show that public libraries may reduce crime within its nearby proximity; in particular, we find within the nearby proximity of the library; there is a substantial reduction in frequency of burglaries, vandalism, robberies, fraud, and assaults.”

Local news by authority

• Bradford – Art projects carried out with people living with dementia to be launched – Telegraph and Argus. “Both projects are part of the University of Bradford’s contribution to the City of Culture year.”. “Display at Shipley Library.”‘Beyond Memory’ will then be displayed at Shipley Library from May 24 to June 12, with a related workshop on June 6, before moving to Manningham, Keighley, and Central libraries.”
• Bristol – Bristol’s libraries described as a ‘zombie service’ – B24/7. “Labour tabled an amendment to the proposed working group’s remit to say permanently shutting any of the 26 branches, plus a community-run access point in Lockleaze, should be off the table and not supported by the committee.” … “But the Greens, Lib Dems and Conservatives voted it down by 6-3 after hearing it would predetermine the taskforce’s recommendations when it reports back in November and deter residents from taking part in the process because it cut the options available.”
• Caerphilly – Council axes 10 libraries and branded ‘disgusting’ in heated meeting – Wales Online. “The decision sparked an outcry in the public gallery with some members of the public shouting “disgusting” as they exited the council chamber.” … “The libraries in Aberbargoed, Abercarn, Abertridwr, Bedwas, Deri, Llanbradach, Machen, Nelson, Oakdale, and Pengam will all cease operations on August 31.”
• Camden – British Library takes young visitors on a journey through storytelling – British Library. “Opening 16 May, Story Explorers is a free, experiential space offering children aged 2-9 and their families the chance to discover the British Library’s collection through imagination and play, featuring sound recordings from the Library’s Sound Archive, artworks, prints and books from across the world”
  • Thousands of books missing from the British Library’s collection – South West Londoner. “Some of the older books in the collection which are lost, dating from as early as the late 1500s, are rare copies of manuscripts or first edition books, which could be worth thousands of pounds.” … “The British Library has lost three Charles Dickens original issues” … “An assistant librarian working for a London-based scientific institution said that while most of the time misplaced books are not necessarily lost, it is mainly due to disorganisation that the library does not know where they are.”
• City of London – Tightrope walkers, Poirot’s flat, an unexpected tiger, and Wapping’s transformation feature in Guildhall Library’s events programme – City of London Council. “Visitors to Guildhall Library will soon discover the locations of Hercule Poirot’s apartment and Lenin’s office, how acrobats performing in Shakespearean London helped inspire our greatest playwright, and which City street was once the most important thoroughfare in Britain. The self-styled, City of London Corporation-owned ‘Library of London’s History’, which is celebrating the 600^th anniversary of its founding, has now published its May to August events programme.”
• Croydon – Croydon libraries that shut to save money will reopen – just not as libraries – My London. “Croydon’s four recently closed library buildings are set to get a new lease of life as community hubs.” … “Since 2019, Croydon’s libraries have seen reduced opening hours and budget cuts totalling £800,000. All four buildings had become recognised local landmarks, and news of their potential closure sparked strong community campaigns in response.” .. Libraries will become an Asian resource centre, a preschool, a health and wellbeing centre, and a nursery.
• Devon – Devon libraries bring Shaun the Sheep and Wallace to life – Devon Live. “Children across Devon and Torbay are in for a treat this October half term as Libraries Unlimited launches StoryFest, a new week-long festival of reading in partnership with acclaimed animation studio Aardman. The festival begins on Saturday, October 25, with a packed day of live events at Exeter Library, including appearances from Shaun the Sheep, a Vegetable Orchestra, and Shaun Dares Ewe, promising an immersive and playful experience for families. StoryFest continues with three days of model making and animation workshops at Barnstaple, Paignton and Exeter libraries …”
  • Book Swap a success at Morchard Bishop – Crediton Courier. “Since the demise of the Devon County Council Mobile Library Van Service to Morchard Bishop, a Village Book Swap, housed in the Memorial Hall has proved very popular; likewise the tea, coffee and cakes also on offer.”
• Glasgow – Glasgow’s Langside library to be refurbished as plans approved – Glasgow Live. “The project includes a new accessible entrance from Battlefield Road, a platform lift and more toilets.”
• Haringey – Watch Barbie and Moana in your Haringey libraries this week – Haringey Council. Free screenings. crafts.
• Manchester – Manchester Libraries – winner of the Library of the Year Award – Manchester Council. “The revival of the Library of the Year award at this year’s British Book Awards event was awarded to Manchester Libraries in recognition of its multi-strand and city-wide Blue Peter Book Club Live programme which made ‘superb’ use of the revered Blue Peter brand to bring children and families into contact with libraries and reading. The programme engaged with people who had never or very rarely visited a library, resulting in an 88% visitor increase compared to a typical Saturday, with 60% of these attendees living in an area of high deprivation.”
  • Manchester Libraries’ Blue Peter Book Club Live Programme – Reading Agency. A look in detail at the national award-winning project.
• Norfolk – Library to open after £17m refurbishment – BBC. “About 100 guests have been invited to mark the opening of The Place – on the site of the former Palmers shop – in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. The building also has a community hub and a learning centre offering diplomas, degrees, courses and community services. Conservative councillor, Carl Smith, said: “The Place is one of the biggest regeneration projects the town has seen in recent years.””
• North East Lincolnshire – New Labour group leader urges libraries rethink as petitions get hundreds of signatures – Grimsby Telegraph. “Labour ‘s new group leader in North East Lincolnshire has urged “a rethink” on the possible futures of Grimsby and Cleethorpes libraries. There is currently a second public consultation by the council on North East Lincolnshire’s libraries and archive services. Options being considered include merging Cleethorpes Library into Cleethorpes Leisure Centre, and a possible move for Grimsby Central Library, which has been closed since late March due to a water leak creating a risk of asbestos disturbance. The first consultation asked for the public’s views on libraries in shopping and leisure centres.”
• Nottingham – Nottingham council confirms who it wants to run three libraries as ‘heartbreaking’ closure avoided – Nottingham Post. “Nottingham City Council has confirmed the company it would like to take over three of its libraries after their “heartbreaking” closure was avoided. The Labour-run authority has been “under immense pressure” trying to save £1.5 million from its library service and previous plans would have seen four of them shut.” … ” Radford-Lenton is still set to be run by the council, but the authority says it will become a “centralised stock hub” featuring a scaled-down library service.” … The other three libraries will be taken over by “The Nottingham-based Castle Cavendish” which “oversees a property portfolio worth £2.8 million, including retail units and business centres. The company uses the net proceeds from this property portfolio, along with grants from various funding bodies, to support a range of charitable projects in Nottingham.
  • No end in sight for delays to new library after ’empty promises’ – Nottingham Post. “Promises from a developer to fix a string of problems to get the long-delayed Sherwood Library open to the public have not been kept, a city councillor has said. The opening of the library in Spondon Street was delayed beyond a planned summer opening last year, following the discovery of dozens of problems with the building.”
• Nottinghamshire – Free virtual reality tour visits Nottinghamshire Libraries – Chad. “Digital Spaces is an ambitious new programme in association with Arts Council England, BFI, awarding National Lottery funding and The Space. Launching in 2025, this forward-thinking initiative project will deliver an array of digital experiences in Mansfield, Worksop, Kirkby-in-Ashfield and Beeston – starting with one of two awe-inspiring virtual reality tours.”
• Shropshire – Shropshire Libraries launch new neurodiversity collection – Advertiser. “Unveiled in April 2025, coinciding with World Autism Acceptance Month, the collection is aimed at neurodiverse individuals, as well as their parents, carers, and professionals. The collection, made possible through funding from the Integrated Care System, features both fiction and non-fiction titles.”
• Slough – Under-threat libraries will not close, council says – BBC. “The council ran a consultation on the plans, which residents used to share their “passion for libraries and communities”, according to lead member of education and children’s services Puja Bedi. She said the council had “already started scoping ideas” for how all four of Slough’s libraries could stay open.” … “The council said it was considering continuing with the current model, but was considering moving to a family hub model in Cippenham.”
• Somerset – Somerset residents urged to check blood pressure with free library loan kits this weekend – Somerset Live. “Libraries across Somerset are offering more than just books this weekend – residents can also borrow blood pressure testing kits for free as part of a major public health push around World Hypertension Day on Saturday, May 17. Somerset Council and NHS Somerset are teaming up to raise awareness about hypertension – often dubbed the ‘silent killer’ …”
  • Public apathy as councillors try to decide future of Wiveliscombe’s community library – Wellington Weekly News. “the working group was told only seven survey forms were returned by people who attended the meetings, who totalled 55 the first time and only 23 on the second occasion, some of whom were at both. And only two people had expressed an interest to volunteer in the library, while nobody said they wanted to help form a new charity or community interest company to take the library forward.”
• Suffolk – Bungay Library celebrates new look library – Suffolk Libraries. “The project has been carried out by local builders, Sprake and Tyrell, thanks to £32,400 funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) via East Suffolk Council, £39,000 raised by The Friends of Bungay Library with support from local charities, in addition to £70,000 from Suffolk County Council.” … “This now provides better access for older or disabled customers and those with prams or buggies. Sheltered canopy areas also provide ‘parking’ for prams and buggies, freeing up space inside the library. There is also a storage facility for chairs, folding tables and other equipment making it easier to set up the main library space for meetings and activities. This will enable the library to host more events in future. There is also a new Privacy Pod which can be used by Barclays Bank for their customer drop-in sessions at the library …”
  • Ipswich resident annoyed car park sign at Broomhill Library – Ipswich Star. “He believes that there is not enough residential parking space in the area, hence many residents understood that they could use this car park, especially in case they had guests over.” [No comment – Ed.]
  • Lowestoft Library marks 50th anniversary – Suffolk Libraries. “The library is marking the anniversary with a series of activities and events including an exhibition celebrating the history of the town’s library from 1905. On Saturday 10 May the library’s Saturday Fun session for children held a birthday party with children invited to come dressed as their favourite book character.”
  • Suffolk Libraries launch project to help prevent falls – Ipswich Star. “The Falls Prevention Project, in partnership with East Suffolk Council, will offer Otago Strength and Balance classes at Kesgrave and Framlingham libraries, as well as online.”
• Surrey – Latest Library Hub opens up in the heart of Weybridge local community – Surrey Council. “The new Library Hub in Weybridge will host a mix of services including Brooklands Radio, a new modern Library, Youth Services, and an overall community space that will provide universal access for all residents. Facilities include areas for agile working, meeting pods, studying, accessing support and a space to meet socially.”
• Westmorland and Furness – Libraries bring history to life with new shipyard memories resource – Westmorland and Furness Council. “Westmorland and Furness Libraries has brought Barrow’s shipbuilding heritage to life with a new reminiscence resource capturing the voices and memories of those who lived and worked through it. Last year, members of the public including Barrow Shipyard workers and local veterans were invited to share their memories, stories, photographs and items as part of a Memory Lane Project.”
• Wirral – Have your say over library closures – West Kirby.
• Wokingham – Having difficulty getting to grips with your computer? There’s help at a local library – Wokingham Today.
• Worcestershire – Worcestershire Libraries appeal for young volunteers – Bromsgrove Advertiser. For Summer Reading Challenge.
• York – How York’s libraries are full of surprises – and not just full of books – York Press. “In this article, Dave Fleming and Holly Beer from Explore York Libraries and Archives talk about the remarkable arts and culture experiences they are bringing to the city’s libraries. From performances and exhibitions to community radio projects, the goal is simple: make high-quality arts and culture accessible to everyone, at the heart of communities.”

Editorial

The local council elections have led to Reform being in charge of ten councils who control UK library services. These are Derbyshire, Doncaster, Durham, Kent, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, North Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire and West Northamptonshire. The Reform Party policy document does not mention public libraries but some of the other stated aims may well impact the sector so one can speculate what this will mean. It will be interesting for instance if librarians will still be able to work from home (although perhaps they will) and there may well be raised councillor eyebrows at book displays to do with climate change or DEI. While it’s possible that the new Lancashire councillors may not entirely welcome their libraries being a Library of Sanctuary, it’s great news that Reform commit to repairing broken public services. That’s at least ten services in line for extra funding then.

But the biggest thing to watch will be on library book stock. There have already been numerous challenges to libraries stocking titles perceived to be promoting LGBT and it’s difficult to see at least some of the new Reform councillors not thinking of asking for a review of their own library stock. Of course, on the other hand, Reform’s policies specifically attack “political bias or cancel culture” so perhaps no such revisions will take place due to this commitment to free speech. If for some reason, however, LGBT stock does come under the spotlight, it will be a huge challenge to CILIP’s commitment to intellectual freedom. Whether a library denuded of LGBT titles would pass the ACE Libraries Development Framework will also be in question. The chief librarians, and their staff, will presumably have very little choice in the matter either way apart from taking early retirement for unspecified reasons. And then there’s the question of if any affected public library service still offers the legally required “comprehensive and efficient” service if certain books are taken off the shelves. Now that would be an interesting one for Baroness Twycross, assuming she’s still in post.

Changes by local authority

• Northern Ireland – £750k to redevelop Enniskillen Library.

National news

• Book exchange libraries to be reinstated at some Tube stations after mayor orders review of his own fire rules – Standard. “ransport for London said on Tuesday that the “book swap” libraries would be reinstated at 15 Tube stations in May after it agreed a “fire-proof storage solution” with the fire brigade.”
• Dump ‘Reform’ into the nearest dustbin – Forward to the British Socialist Revolution – News Line. Reform “will still need to face up to the structural issues with their budgets. And when they do, the consequences are easy to predict: fewer bin collections, more potholes, more closed libraries – and massive rises in taxes.”
• The Library of Ancient Wisdom — in the court of Nineveh, knowledge was power – Financial Times. “Ashurbanipal’s library is a useful reminder that authoritarian rule has always meant controlling knowledge, whether by seizing clay tablets or deleting websites.”
• Local elections 2025: full mayoral and council results for England – Guardian. Library services now under Reform control are Derbyshire, Doncaster, Durham, Kent, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, North Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire and West Northamptonshire.
• Public Library Closures – They Work For You. “DCMS estimates the number of static libraries that have permanently closed (and not been replaced by or relocated to a new static library) in England in each of the last 10 years is as follows: …
• The Reading Agency and BBC Arts launch the Big Tasty Read as part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, celebrating the power of food through books  – Reading Agency. “The Big Tasty Read – a new national celebration of reading and collaboration between national charity The Reading Agency and BBC Arts – will launch at this summer’s Bradford Literature Festival (27 June – 6 July 2025), using the universal appeal of food to inspire reading and bring communities together. Delivered as part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, the campaign will continue with an exciting programme of events led by Bradford Council’s Bradford Libraries, engaging audiences across the district and beyond. “
• Reform policies: What will Nigel Farage’s party actually do after local election wins? – Independent. “It has promised a British DOGE (Department for Government Efficiency) in each local authority it gains control of. Ms Jenkyns will likely be responsible for rolling out the first as mayor of Greater Lincolnshire. The party hopes it will discover “wasteful” spending on diversity and inclusivity programmes, allowing it to slash spending and cut local taxes in turn” … “vowed staff working for Reform-controlled councils will be ordered back to their offices”

International news

• Global – What’s Going On in Library Marketing – Info Today. A look at what’s happening mainly in the USA/Australia/UK, including LibraryOn.
• Canada – Mysterious smell plaguing local library prompts closure – CBC. “A mysterious odour has been plaguing a local library branch, leading to intermittent closures over the past year, the county’s top librarian says. Now, officials are shutting down the branch in Stoney Point for the near future to finally pinpoint the source of the smell. “It’s sort of time to do some very serious exploratory testing and see if we can’t deal with this for once and for all,” says Adam Craig, Essex County’s chief librarian.”
• Tariffs could cost Ottawa Public Library 33,000 new items – Ottawa Citizen. “could lose purchasing power for tens of thousands of items if Canada imposes retaliatory tariffs on print books from the United States.”
• USA -2025 Library Systems Report – American Libraries. “the library technology industry showed its maturity in 2024. Businesses have become increasingly stable and robust products delivered rich functionality. But decades of consolidation have created a narrower slate of competitors, resulting in a smaller number of products available for each type and size of library. The marketplace is seeing more specialized solutions but fewer options.”
  • Federal Court Halts Dismantling of IMLS in ALA Lawsuit – American Libraries. ” the US District Court for the District of Columbia temporarily blocked the Trump administration from dismantling the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), as directed by a March 14 executive order. The temporary restraining order was issued in response to a lawsuit filed by ALA and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), the largest union representing library workers.”
  • Imagining A Louisville Without Libraries And Museums – Voice Tribune. “a Louisville without libraries and museums would be a less curious, less connected, less compassionate place. These institutions don’t just educate, they humanize. They remind us of where we’ve been and point us toward where we could go. Without them, we’d still be a city, but we’d be a city with far less heart. And so, I would like to encourage our readers to support and keep these most precious cornerstones of our community in mind, especially as we approach a time in our history when they are being increasingly disregarded and even deemed “unnecessary.” “

Local news by authority

• Bradford – Keighley Library reopening after £150,000-plus refurbishment – Keighley News. “Work to the Grade II-listed building included a new counter, flooring and furniture, plus redecoration. Also, a revised layout features dedicated study spaces, a purpose-built children’s area and flexible accommodation for events and activities. The refurb was financed with UK Shared Prosperity Fund cash.”
• Brighton and Hove – Campaign started to save community libraries in Brighton – Rayo. “Sarah Craven-Antill set up the petition – Stop the Closure of Brighton’s Community Libraries – on the Change.org website. She has already started a campaign to protect Rottingdean library from council cuts but wants to expand the campaign city-wide. The Rottingdean petition has attracted more than 2,250 signatures – more than the 1,250 required to trigger a council debate. Now Mrs Craven-Antill wants to show same support for all libraries with the new petition which has more than 12) [sic – Ed.] signatures already.”
• Bromley – Librarian’s quirky tales of local landmarks brings Bromley’s history to life – London News Online. “Christine Davis, who is based at Mottingham Library, is an enthusiastic amateur historian who is well-known to colleagues and customers due to her love of architecture and her popular monthly talks on London’s past.”
• Caerphilly – Don’t close our library: We won’t play Labour’s ‘Hunger Games’ – Socialist Party. “Labour Caerphilly council proposes to close ten libraries, saving £500,000 over three years, claiming to concentrate resources into hubs – that they expect people to travel miles to. Our debate was organised as ten one-minute exchanges on how we can stop this – followed by an open discussion. The Plaid Cymru councillor didn’t address the issue. She told us we were a deprived area – which didn’t sit well with our pride.”
• Cheshire West and Chester – Unearthed: The Power of Gardening to tour Cheshire libraries – Northwich and Winsford Guardian. “The free exhibition, titled Unearthed: The Power of Gardening, will be touring Cheshire West and Chester libraries from May 2025 to March 2026. It aims to explore the transformative, enriching, and sometimes radical power of gardening. Cheshire West and Chester Libraries Service is one of 30 services across the UK that will be celebrating gardening as part of the Living Knowledge Network, in partnership with the British Library’s major exhibition from May 2 to August 10, 2025.”
• Devon – Devon libraries launch free summer challenge for children – Tavistock Times Gazette. “Based on Libraries Unlimited’s popular reading challenge for five to twelve-year-olds ‘The Secret Book Quest’, The Summer Book Quest sees beloved characters Pip, Zena and Libro head off on a new adventure. The theme for the first year is The Deep Sea Adventure, based on the Underwater Zone in The Secret Book Quest.”
  • Braunton crowned South West Library of the Year – BBC. “Braunton Library was singled out in the British Book Awards 2025 for its creativity and work in the community. The library hosts numerous groups, including a Lego club for children, knit and natter and coffee and crochet groups for adults, as well as creative writing sessions.”
• Dudley – 40th anniversary celebration for Stourbridge Library – Express and Star. “Anyone who has been involved with the library over the last four decades is invited to come along from 2pm-4pm. There will be refreshments, photo displays and plenty of opportunity to reminisce.”
• East Dunbartonshire – Local libraries hosting events to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day – East Dunbartonshire Council. “Victory tea”, talks, bunting, etc.
• Glasgow – VR displays and hands-on demos to bring science to life at Glasgow festival – Glasgow Times. “Glasgow’s 33 libraries will also play a part in this year’s programme, with displays of STEM-related books planned for the duration of the festival.”
• Gloucestershire – Guinea pig visits proving a hit with library group – BBC. “A group of guinea pigs have been visiting an over-50s group at a local library. Lisa Pontins-Medes, an assistant at Newent Library in Gloucestershire, has been bringing her six pet guinea pigs to work to spend time with the group. She also takes them to schools, cafes and other groups around the town, where they have become something of a hit.” Lovely video.
• Haringey – There’s lots on in Haringey libraries this month – Haringey Council.
  • New Borough Vision officially launched – Haringey Council. “The vision sets out how the council will work together with partners, residents, and Haringey’s thriving voluntary and community sector to create a borough where everyone can belong and thrive.”
• Jersey – Chief librarian cites rise in book vandalism in UK from US influence – Jersey Evening Post. “Speaking in his capacity as president of Libraries Connected, that represents British public libraries, Mr Jewell said “anecdotal evidence” from his charity members were pointing to an increase in demand to remove or vandalise certain books on public library shelves.” … “LGBTQ+ materials were the large focus of the censorship and vandalism”
• Kensington and Chelsea – Digital clinic at North Kensington Library – Kensington and Chelsea Council. Age UK drop-in.
• Lambeth – Lambeth Libraries: events, talks, readings, art shows and other activities for May 2025 – Brixton Buzz.
• Leicester – Library marks 120 years with week of free activities – Leicester Council. “the Bishop Street library is inviting local families to step back in time and experience the library as it might have been in 1905, with the help of Edwardian toys, writing implements and archive materials loaned by Leicester Museums.” and other events.
  • Bid to protect Leicester libraries and visitor attractions from cuts rejected – Leicester Mercury. “Leicester City Council has thrown out a bid to protect its libraries, community centres and visitor attractions from cuts amid a backdrop of residents’ protests” .. “assistant mayor for health, culture, libraries and community centres, Vi Dempster said the Labour group has done “everything possible” to protect frontline services “from years and years of austerity”. But, the hard-up council is now having to look at libraries and community centres to “ensure that they are a long-term sustainable resource for our communities”.”
  • Union slams council’s ‘ill-judged and short-sighted’ planned cuts to libraries – Leicester Mercury. “Union officials have claimed council plans to close Leicester libraries and community centres are “ill-judged and short-sighted”. The Leicester City branch of Unison fears that if approved, “communities would be significantly harmed”, but council bosses say no final decision has been made.”
• Lincolnshire – Currently reading – Lincolnshire Council. “Let the Lincolnshire Libraries team help you to find your next favourite read from the thousands of books and e-books they have available for you to borrow for free …”
• Merton – The continued importance of libraries in our community – This is Local London. “There are only seven libraries in all of Merton, leaving only one library for every 31,000 people. This is concerning, not least because the current budgeting for libraries means they would never be able to accommodate this many people, but also because it demonstrates a decline in public interest in libraries. Whilst it may be tempting to assume that this is due to more people wanting to buy and own the physical books they read, as well as being able to read them online, this is not necessarily true – it is also a symptom of a declining interest in reading in general in our local community.”
• Newcastle – Babies to receive free books in Dolly Parton pilot project – Newcastle Council. “While the pilot project is currently only offering books to children born from May 2025 to April 2026, families are being reminded that they already have access to a huge range of stories and services – for free – through their local libraries.”
• Norfolk – New Young Gardeners Club launched by Sheringham Library – North Norfolk News. “The Little Shoots launch event took place on April 22. The event was a success with children helping to prepare planters and then digging to set the plants. They then filled their own pots with seeds to grow at home. Sunflower seeds donated by Recovery College were planted under the library windows to finish the event.”
• North East Lincolnshire – Don’t miss our pop-up events to give your views on library and archive review – North East Lincolnshire Council. “people are now being asked for their views on options, all at an early stage, to develop the library service alongside other services in Grimsby and Cleethorpes to include community spaces where all ages feel welcome.” … “Meanwhile in Waltham, the option of a community library model is being explored.”
• Northern Ireland – Over £750,000 secured to redevelop Enniskillen Library – Impartial Reporter. “750,000 in funding has been secured to redevelop Enniskillen Library. The fundraising amount was today announced by Communities Minister, Gordon Lyons, and will see a state of the art library building erected in Enniskillen.”
• North Yorkshire – North Yorkshire Libraries mark ‘Local and Community History Month’ this May with special events and exhibitions – Scarborough News. Talks, displays, reminiscence, model railway, spoken recordings …
• Nottingham – Councillor calls on own ruling group to open problem-plagued library by July – Notts TV. Ongoing delays at Sherwood Library. “Cllr Adele Williams (Lab), who represents the Sherwood ward, has now set up a petition calling on the ruling Labour Group to commit to a concrete opening date. She said the petition would be used to advocate for getting the library open by July 15. The petition will be presented to the council’s leadership at Full Council on Monday, May 12.”
  • Work ‘ground to a halt’ on Nottingham library that was supposed to open last year – Nottingham Post. “Work on the new Sherwood Library is said to have “ground to a halt” as Nottingham City Council appears unable to commit to its last promised opening date. The library was originally set to open in the summer of 2024, but there have been repeated delays and a row between the city council and developer.”
• Orkney – ‘Share the Vision’ team spotlights resources at Orkney Library for sight-impaired readers – Orkney Council. “Simon Savidge will be posting about his visits to libraries on his social media platforms, charting his journey, his experiences as he visits locations in each of the countries of the UK, and, most importantly, the lived experience of people with sight loss.”
• Rutland – Ryhall Library could close and move to another location according to Rutland County Council paperwork – Lincs Online. “The doors of Ryhall’s existing library should be shut and the service moved to another location, the county council is recommending. Villagers say they feel blindsided by the recommendation which has appeared on Rutland County Council paperwork today without any heads up or correspondence with the parish council.”
• Slough – Slough council: man makes impassioned plea for libraries – Slough Observer. “The closure of Langley and Cippenham libraries are among the options for the future of Slough’s library service being considered by council leaders. Burnham resident Chandra Kondepudi presented councillors with a petition against the plans signed by 2,028 people – telling them libraries ‘should never be up for negotiation’. Mr Kondepudi said: “A library is not just a building – it is where a mother takes her child to fall in love with books, it is where a teenager studies in silence because home might be noisy.”
• Somerset – Somerset Libraries Winter Coat Exchange: A heartwarming success – Somerset Council. “This year, the Somerset Council initiative saw an incredible 2,470 coats for both adults and children donated and 2,086 coats taken by people in need – more than double the figure received last year.”
• Staffordshire – Libraries to host celebration events for VE Day 80th anniversary – Staffordshire Council. ” talks, crafts and creative writing sessions, exhibits and even a flypast of a Lancaster bomber.”
  • Libraries go green again for May – Staffordshire Council. “Following the success of last year’s Green Libraries Month, this year promises even more exciting events, talks, arts and crafts workshops running right across the county.”
• Walsall – Discover your family roots through Walsall Archives this Local History Month – Walsall Council. Exhibition and quizzes.
• Warrington – Campaigners say hundreds attended library closure consultation as children object – Warrington Guardian. Westbrook Library to be closed. “The news was met with anger by Westbrook residents, who have rallied to support the library during a consultation period and fight back against its planned closure. This has included hundreds of residents attending drop-in consultation sessions, as well as children from nearby schools protesting.”
• Wigan – 28 brilliant archive pictures from Wigan’s libraries over the decades – Wigan Today. “A whole host of activities takes place at the venues, including art exhibitions, story time, puppet shows and even visits from some famous faces.”
• Warwickshire – Free ‘Unearthed: The Power of Gardening’ display blooms at Warwickshire Libraries – Warwickshire Council. Along with BL display, there will be poetry writing, creative writing, paper rose making and compost workshops.
• Wirral – Six more libraries could close as Wirral Council consider further cuts – Wirral Globe. “The local authority is planning to only operate eight libraries going forward under plans that have been revealed on May 2. This is after cuts to the council service of £250,000 were approved unanimously earlier this year.” … “The local authority closed nine libraries as part of budget cuts in 2022. Only two of these have since reopened as public-facing libraries in Wallasey Village and Pensby.”

Editorial

So I’ve just had today a couple of Teams meetings with two very different people, one American and one a Londoner, asking in their various ways about the state of English public libraries. Leaving aside the sheer nerdiness of me enjoying doing such things on a Bank Holiday Monday, the thing that united both conversations was both asked how libraries are nationally organised and co-ordinated. When answering the question, I always include the phrase “herd of cats”. I also may say something linked to the quote attributed to Gandhi about when he was asked about what he thought of Western civilization, to which he allegedly answered “I think it would be a good idea”.

But, the thing is, however atomised the British service is, with a prosperous library service often not having communication or indeed knowledge of the bordering poverty-stricken library service adjoining it, it’s a lot better than it was. The internet has meant that librarians can easily find out what’s going on and organisations like Libraries Connected (the clues in the name), CILIP and even the British Library are helping to share knowledge and to ever so gently try to herd things along. And this is a good thing. I remember when the British Library did barely anything in this regard and there was no Libraries Connected. The library world now seems to be full of best practice webinars and knowledge-sharing, There’s even inter-service meetings and get-togethers. This may be a huddling response to the current situation, much like you see penguins do in cold weather but I think it’s more than that. It means that library services can learn from each other and benefit from economies of scale.

Do you know what’s stopping cats taking over the world? Lack of organisational skills. So it’s good to see we’re getting more linked and co-ordinated, albeit in fits and starts, in the public libraries sector. Meow.

Changes by local authority

• Pembrokeshire – Town Council to fund Neyland Library for five years.

National news

• J.K. Rowling (as Robert Galbraith) longlisted for the Dagger in the Library Award 2025 – Rowling Library. ” J.K. Rowling, writing under her pseudonym Robert Galbraith, has been longlisted for the prestigious Dagger in the Library Award from the Crime Writers’ Association for 2025. The longlist features ten accomplished crime writers who have built strong relationships with libraries and their readers”
• MP slams ‘incongruous’ fire brigade decision to ban book swaps on London Underground – Independent. “Labour MP for Walthamstow, Stella Creasy, has said that it “seems incongruous” to remove community bookcases from London Underground stations due to the fire risk when newsagents selling paper products remain.”
• Queering the kids’ section – Critic. “It would be near-heresy to suggest that libraries, these cosy spaces, those agents of positive change, are complicit in harming the young. This may explain why the announcement of this year’s Carnegie Medals shortlist announced has slipped — so far — under the radar.” … “This could explain why Birmingham Libraries has ignored guidance that Homebody is for 14+ readers, and put the book in its junior section. Other authorities — Derby and East Cheshire — have done the same” … “Libraries present themselves as fit for purpose. We are led to believe the work they do is suitable and appropriate. Dig deeper though, and it’s clear how heavily they have invested in a toxic ideology.”
• The right-wing threat on censorship is real – Funding the future. “Right now, the moves will be limited. But expect something the left has used to good effect to become a key feature of congressional campaigns, and that is clicktivism. You can just see there being campaigns created to demand that material of the above sort be removed from libraries and schools. It would be all too easy to do. And it worries me, for precisely that reason.”

• Trump-style book censorship is spreading – just ask British librarians – Guardian. “For all its talk of free speech, the Trump administration seems remarkably comfortable with censorship.” … “when a Catholic school in Croydon invited Simon James Green, a prominent gay children’s author, to give a talk. The US anti-LGBT website Catholic Truth ran a campaign encouraging readers to contact the school and protest against the event” … “One survey conducted later that year found 26% of librarians had “occasionally” been asked to censor materials” … “Most of the requests to remove books came from parents, and almost all of these requests related to books that explored LGBT+ themes. ” … “Over the last three years, drag queen story events – a popular format involving considerable amounts of glitter and storytelling aimed at children – have been targeted by protests organised by Turning Point UK, a British offshoot of the far-right US political organisation, and by the white nationalist group Patriotic Alternative.”
• UK libraries facing growing calls to remove LGBT+ books – Independent. “LGBT+ charity Stonewall has raised concerns after new research seen by The Independent revealed that the vast majority of book removal requests in UK school libraries have been focused on LGBT+ content.”

International news

• Canada / USA – Dismay as cross-border library caught in US-Canada feud: ‘We just want to stay open’ – Guardian. “Under the new rules which go into effect in October, Canadians will need to go through a formal border crossing before entering the library. The news, met with disbelief from patrons and staff, followed a closely watched visit by the US secretary of homeland security, Kristi Noem, in March. Touring the library, Noem said “USA number one!” and then hopped over the black tape separating the two countries and said “51st state” when she landed in Canada. She repeated the joke – echoing Donald Trump’s recent fixation on annexing Canada – three times.”
• Europe – Europe Challenge. “The Europe Challenge is an annual programme that brings together teams from libraries and communities across Europe to address today’s most pressing social, digital, and climate challenges by developing, sharing and implementing creative solutions with support from the European Cultural Foundation and its partners.”
• Global – Six beautiful libraries from around the world – BBC. Most aren’t public libraries but oh my goodness.
• India – No sharp shushes or ‘finger on the lips’, community libraries reimagine reading spaces – Hindustan Times. “Turning the idea of a library on its head while adhering to the core mantra of learning as fun, this one in south Delhi’s Khirki Extension is among the more than 230 across India. Connected to the Free Libraries Network , they have reimagined libraries as community spaces that encourage engagement between children through activities, stories, drama, sports, conversations, and a lot of reading.”
  • Community Libraries Are Spreading Across Rural India – Reasons to be cheerful. “Uttar Pradesh alone has merely 200 public libraries, but almost 98,000 villages at last count. “. Mobile and little libraries (one or two rooms) are expanding.
• USA – Wildflower seeds are available at public libraries – – Del Norte Prospector. ” Generation Wild has been working to get indoor kids outside with wildflowers by distributing more than 120,000 free seed packets across the state.”
  • Banned Together – IMDB. Movie: “Visionary teenagers, public protests, threats, criminal charges, and drama-filled school board meetings: this is the explosive world of “Banned Together”, the first feature documentary about fighting book bans and censorship in the U.S”
• Library director resigns under pressure from board, anti-LGBTQ activists – KUNR. Nevada.

Local news by authority

• Blackburn With Darwen – Bright new Spring display at Blackburn Central Library – Lancashire Telegraph. “As part of a wider project celebrating the joy of reading, the library’s windows have been transformed into a lively “Spring into Reading” display—an eye-catching celebration of books, learning, and the season’s renewal. The striking artwork is the result of a marketing and training initiative led by Cath Ford, who has worked closely with library staff through a series of workshops.” … “The project is part of Rekindle, a national Arts in Libraries programme designed to place libraries at the heart of cultural experiences for rural, peri-urban, and underserved communities.”
• Bradford – Just one third of Bradford library users are men – review – Telegraph and Argus. “Encouraging more men to use Bradford’s libraries and creating a City of Culture legacy are among the goals of the district’s library services over the next five years” … “A recent review of the library service found that despite a decrease in staffing levels and funding, the service has seen a big rise in the number of events held in libraries in the past five years.” … “Since April, the service has faced further cuts – last year, Bradford Council approved £175,000 cuts and reduced opening hours.” … “More than £800,000 has been invested in the library service in the five-year period, with 10 out of the 12 Council-run libraries being refurbished.” ACE- funded project to attract more males.
• Bromley – Bromley Central Library to host first World Book Night – News Shopper. “The event will include the giveaway of 150 ‘quick reads’, creative writing workshops, and a Q&A session with local authors. There will also be a painting taster session, a talk on the history of Bromley, and a start-up marketplace showcasing local entrepreneurs.”
• Carmarthenshire – Carmarthenshire libraries and schools come together to promote Reading Well for Dementia – Tenby Observer. “The sessions, held in March, were part of an initiative funded by the Books Council of Wales and brought together care home residents and schoolchildren in an inter-generational setting.”
• Coventry – Three libraries to be relocated despite concerns – BBC. “Coventry City Council has approved plans to move the services in Bell Green, Coundon and Holbrooks at a meeting on Wednesday. Hundreds of residents had signed petitions and objected to the proposals following fears of reductions to footfall, staff and books. The cabinet member for finance, councillor Richard Brown, said the relocation would save £625,000 per year.”
• Croydon – New shared reading group to begin at New Addington Library – Inside Croydon. “The Reader, a national charity, is starting a shared reading group in Croydon next week.”
• Cumberland – Library shut suddenly amid serious building issue – BBC. “Cumberland Council said Carlisle Library, in The Lanes shopping centre, would be closed until further notice. Posting on social media, the local authority said it hoped to issue an update after the Easter Bank Holiday weekend. The library is currently undergoing a £3.3m renovation.”

• Devon – Devon’s libraries quietly reinvent themselves with seed swaps and fridges – Devon Live. “Parents with newborns can weigh their babies in a calm, welcoming setting – without the need to book in at a GP surgery. They can also stick around for Bounce & Rhyme , a free singing session designed to entertain little ones and offer a chance for new parents to socialise.” … ” … “Several sites now run Repair Cafés , where volunteers help fix everything from toasters to trousers, and Seed Swaps are also growing in popularity. These allow people to bring along excess fruit, vegetable, flower or herb seeds and take home something new to plant – helping local wildlife in the process. Food waste is tackled head-on through Community Fridges , available at a number of branches, which offer free surplus items donated by supermarkets. Alongside these are school uniform and fancy dress swaps, set up to ease financial pressures on parents – particularly around Halloween and World Book Day. Libraries in Honiton and Tavistock have partnered with Active Devon to offer free cycle training sessions.”
  • New spring and summer arts events at Barnstaple Library take ‘Pride of Place’ – North Devon Gazette. “This is now the third time Libraries Unlimited – which runs the libraries in Devon and Torbay – has hosted the Pride of Place themed season at locations across the county. In Barnstaple it will offer the North Devon community a wide ranges of events and activities from tango lessons to nature journalling and creating origami blossoms from old books, as well as photography exhibitions and live theatre performances.”
• Harrow – Libraries, high streets and arts block set for upgrade as £800k secured for North London borough – My London. “Local authority and community library services will also receive a £100,000 investment, which will include creating more meeting rooms and neurodivergent friendly libraries, with the aim of increasing the number of users by 6,000.”
• Inverclyde – Drop in at Port Glasgow Library to share VE Day stories – Greenock Telegraph. “Residents can bring in photographs, medals, and other mementos to be digitised by library staff. The council is particularly interested in stories about relatives who served in the war and how families celebrated VE Day.”
• Isle of Wight – World Book Night 2025: Island Libraries invite everyone to celebrate reading (updated) – On the Wight. “Three libraries—Ryde, Lord Louis in Newport, and Sandown—will be hosting community events to mark the evening. Activities will run from 6pm to 8pm and include a book swap and informal chats over light refreshments, provided by the Friends of the Library groups.”
  • Ryde Library set to re-open children’s section following renovation – Island Echo. “The Isle of Wight Library service secured a £150,000 grant from Arts Council England’s Libraries Improvement Fund in 2023, which was shared with Cowes Library to improve facilities and accessibility at both locations. Renovations at Ryde Library began at the end of February, and included the installation of a new accessible toilet for library user groups and a complete refurbishment of the children’s library.The Friends of Ryde Library generously funded new furniture and shelving, which have now been delivered and installed.”
• Islington – ‘I visited the tiny library in a 100-year-old Islington phone box that lights up at night’ – My London News. Little free library. Architect-designed, child-friendly.
• Leicester – Campaign launched to save Leicester libraries from closure threat – Leicester Mercury. “A bid to save Leicester libraries and community centres from possible closure and cuts has been launched by opposition councillors. The Leicester Conservative group has branded the proposed cuts “an absolute disgrace”, adding that the service was a “lifeline” for local communities.”
• Norfolk – Norfolk Council owed more than £100,000 in late fines – North Norfolk News. “Late fines had been reintroduced for books across Norfolk’s libraries last year after they had been suspended during Covid. The data revealed that the council had collected more than £70,000 since late fines were reintroduced.”
• North East Lincolnshire – Library services review enters its next phase – BBC. “It follows a survey last year that asked people how they used library and archive services, and what they wanted to see in future. The consultation covers four of the five libraries in the borough, in Grimsby, Cleethorpes and Waltham.” … “The council said the review was launched because there had been a decline in library visits since the pandemic of more than 40%. It added that there were economic and social advantages of bringing services together under one roof.”
• Northern Ireland – Convicted child sex offender allegedly used public libraries to flout internet ban – News Letter. “William Maher, 37, appeared before magistrates in Belfast charged with eight separate breaches of a Sexual Offences Prevention Order. The SOPO was imposed in May last year as part of a sentence imposed for communication with two young boys.”
• North Northamptonshire – Finish date for £6.8m-budget Kettering Cornerstone roof replacement project announced as library and art gallery to be made watertight – Northants Telegraph. “Kettering residents will have to wait until August 2026 for their art gallery and library to reopen more than five years after work first began – and with a total price tag of £11.3m. A timeline published by North Northants Council has revealed scaffolding erection work is set to begin on April 28 (2025), a process that will take just under four months.”
• Pembrokeshire – Funding support agreed for Neyland Library – Pembrokeshire Council. “Neyland Town Council has agreed to a five-year funding agreement to support the continued professional operation of the library, with opening hours unchanged. Neyland Library was opened in June 2021 and has 13 hours a week of staffed opening, but customers can use unstaffed access anytime from 6am to 10pm, seven days a week, all year round.”
• Slough – Slough libraries: petition to be debated by councillors – Slough and South Bucks Observer. “A petition signed by more than 2,000 people against the possible closure of Langley and Cippenham libraries is set to be debated by councillors next week.” Opening hours and usage had been cut in the two libraries since 2019.
• Suffolk – The Reading Quest starts here! Volunteers needed to support Suffolk’s summer literacy campaign – Suffolk Libraries. “Reading Quest replaced the Summer Reading Challenge literacy campaign and last year over 6,200 children took part. ”
  • Suffolk Libraries’ charity set to decide on future – Ipswich Star. Paywall. “The charity that has run Suffolk Libraries for the last 13 years is preparing to decide whether to wind itself up or carry on in a new form after the end of next month.”
• Tameside – Festival of Libraries Returns for 2025 – Tameside Council. “Greater Manchester Festival of Libraries is returning for 2025 and as always Tameside Council will be playing its part to the full. This vibrant celebration of libraries and their vital role in communities across the city region takes place from Wednesday 4 to Sunday 8 June. Tameside has three great events lined up including the highly popular Look for a Book activity during the summer half-term break (23 May to 1 June)”
• Warrington – ‘Nothing off table’ as pupils voice opposition to Westbrook Library closure plan – Warrington Guardian. “The pupil asked: “Outside of school, where will the children of Westbrook be able to walk to locally with their family and friends to support their mental health and wellbeing, connect with others, read books, learn, develop a love of reading, relax, attend activities, complete their homework and choose books that they can take home – all for free – if Westbrook Library closes?” Responding to the full question, Cllr Higgins said: “I would normally then say thank you for the question but I couldn’t see a question within this statement.””
• West Sussex – Big cheer for our library volunteers – West Sussex Council. “The service currently has 334 active volunteers across 13 different roles in our 36 libraries and out in the community, and in the last year alone collectively gave around 16,500 hours of their time to help others.”
• Wokingham -Lions look for laptops – Wokingham Today. Libraries provide space for laptop donations to charity.

Editorial

There was a time when it looked like all public libraries would go fines-free sooner or later. Now, that seems a bit optimistic. It’s sad to see that Stoke on Trent are reactivating fines for the first time since Covid. This appears to be fundamentally an income-generating move. Which is, sadly, fair enough, considering the cuts that many library services are going through. In other austerity news, Leicester have announced that they’re closing, or passing to volunteers, six libraries while consolidating funding in their remaining ones, including introducing staff-less hours. And Bradford have reduced their opening hours and Havering are closing some of its libraries. Yay though for Blackburn With Darwen which is upgrading a library/theatre and also those library services which are showing off their Libraries Improvement Fund works from the last round. And of course there’s the next LIF round coming.

Perhaps, though, there needs to be another less politically-loaded word being used other than “austerity” in that last paragraph but it’s a challenge. The political orthodoxy since at least 2010, Labour and Conservative, is that spending needs reducing in order to reduce debt. This is opposed to the view that one can spend one’s way out of recession, ideally by investment, as championed by Keynes and Roosevelt, with a side-order of World War Two rearmament. The obvious flaw, though, to the current ideology is that it’s blatantly not worked for 15 years and has included some of the lowest earnings increases since the Napoleonic Wars combined with precious little debt repayment. At least, when one invests, one gets wealthier front-line workers and better services out of that. The current alternative is neither that nor, evidently, repayment. Doesn’t seem all that sensible or adult to me. So I’ll stick with “austerity”. As` also the Government, sadly, appears to be doing.

There has to be another word for what’s happening in the USA though. Cutting funding to public libraries, is in the right playbook but encouraging censorship is something else. And there’s even concerns expressed in Canada – apart from the ones about them being invaded by the USA (last seen in the worst-case Fallout game timeline) – that the tariffs will increase costs of books and other library goods/services. Yes, definitely another word is needed there.

Changes by local authority

• Blackburn With Darwen – Investment in Blackburn Library and Library Theatre.
• Leicester – 6 libraries (Evington, Knighton, and Rushey Mead, along with the Tudor Centre, Eyres Monsell Community Centre, and Gilmorton Community Rooms) may close or turn volunteer.
• Stoke on Trent – Returns to fining adults.

National news

• Don’t bank on it: Major banks telling customers to use pop-up services in libraries and churches as they shut 254 branches – Sun. “Lloyds, Halifax and Bank of Scotland, which are all part of Lloyds Banking Group, will shut at least 254 bank branches in 2025 and 2026”. Colchester: “Lloyds customers can speak to a Community Banker at the local library on a Wednesday once a fortnight”
• How Reading Sparks is Inspiring Young Readers – Reading Agency. “a fun programme that mixes science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) with creativity and reading. ” … “These are special projects that shine a light on cool areas of STEM. Our first spotlight was robotics and coding, using Lego – specifically, something called Lego Spike Prime.”. A look at the pilot ptojects.

• The importance of public libraries for older adults: Supporting wellbeing later in life – CILIPS. “as a cognitively and emotionally enriching activity, books offer a vast array of choice for older adults to pursue their personal interests and preferences. Yet for these benefits of reading to be realised, older adults need to have access to quality books to support and enrich later life – highlighting the essential role of public libraries.”
• Library resource pack: Dying Matters Awareness Week – Hospice UK.
• Meet the passionate volunteers saving our libraries – and the users who depend on them – Lancs Live. “At Mill Hill a team of around 15 volunteers man the desk and ensure the library runs smoothly. The building is often packed with youngsters after school and locals can come along for a brew and a biscuit.”
• ‘Meta has stolen books’: authors to protest in London against AI trained using ‘shadow library’ – Guardian. “Meta has stolen books so that their AI can reproduce creative content, potentially putting these same authors out of business”
• Miniature libraries are popping up across the UK, boosting community book sharing – Country Living. “To celebrate Penguin’s 90th birthday, 90 new Little Book Stops will open around the country — and there’s still time to nominate your local town or village.”
• To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what steps she is taking to help public libraries expand outreach work – They Work For You. Answer is that they can apply to Libraries Improvement Fund, “such as electric tuk-tuks in Portsmouth”

International news

• Australia – ALIA National Simultaneous Storytime 2025 – Australia Library and Information Association. “Every year a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country. Now in its 25th successful year …”
  • Beyond books: the surprising things to borrow from public libraries – Northern Daily Leader. Paywall.

• Ireland – Why Irish Libraries offer so much more than books – Times. Paywall. “Irish investment in libraries is mentioned by every library staff member I speak to, particularly in contrast to Britain …”

• USA – Elon Musk’s DOGE teams cut critical funding from America’s libraries, officials say – CBS. “Wednesday night, word came that more than a dozen Institute grants were terminated — “seemingly at random,” the union said. Three states, California, Connecticut and Washington, received the first termination notices for their state library grants, according to a statement from the union” see also Libraries are under siege: How Trump’s cuts put community hubs in peril – USA Today.

• Building and Sustaining Homeschooling Centers at Three U.S. Public Libraries – Information Today. “public libraries are increasingly a place where homeschooling families spend time and seek resources to aid in the education of their children. In this article, three public libraries (one located in New York and two in California) will share information regarding the programs, resources, and policies they have developed to serve the growing needs of this community.”
  • Rightwing groups across US push new bans to limit ‘obscene’ books in libraries – Guardian. “Critics say bans would hinder rights as proponents would impose their beliefs on others who don’t share their views”
  • Trump’s attack on libraries was predictable. Its consequences could be devastating – Guardian. “To understand why this matters so deeply, it’s crucial to recognize what IMLS actually does. Established in 1996, it is the primary federal agency providing crucial financial support to libraries and museums nationwide. It invests hundreds of millions of dollars annually to help institutions develop literacy programs, workforce training, digital resources, cultural preservation and civic engagement initiatives. Cutting this funding is more than just budget trimming. It means dismantling essential community infrastructure.”
  • US Naval Academy removes 400 books from library in anti-diversity purge – Guardian. Any book covering diversity, equality or inclusion removed on Trump’s orders.

Local news by authority

• Argyll and Bute – Frustration at closure of island’s only library – BBC. “Live Argyll, which runs community and leisure services on behalf of Argyll and Bute Council, shut the site in November after the sole librarian retired. The charity has published a business plan for the next two years, but Tiree’s library was not included on the list of its facilities.”
• Barnsley – Barnsley Libraries – Impact of The Libraries Improvement Fund – DCMS. “The Libraries Improvement Fund (LIF) will open for expressions of interest on Tuesday 6 May 2025 … To mark the publication of the guidance for Round 4, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the completed projects from earlier rounds starting with Barnsley Libraries who were able to upgrade their libraries with the support of LIF funding.”
• Bedford – Bookworms boost Bedford libraries to record-breaking February – Bedford Independent. “Love Libraries Month saw a record-breaking February in Bedford Borough, with more than 30,000 visits recorded across the borough’s libraries – and the highest-ever monthly footfall at Bedford Central Library since records began in 2022.” See Bedford Borough Year of Reading 2025.
• Blackburn With Darwen – Library Theatre with fascinating history set for major investment under £100m scheme – Lancashire Post. “A proposed double-storey extension – better linking the library and theatre, opening up the spaces for wider community uses … Improvements to the historic library that would focus on repairing and retaining the character and original features while helping to create more space … increased sustainability”.
• Bradford – Bradford libraries have reduced their hours from this week – Telegraph and Argus. “Libraries are reducing opening hours by an average of six hours per week, based on the preference of the public following consultation to focus reduced hours on Saturday and during the week rather than at lunchtimes.”
  • Library use rises as cuts to opening hours begin – BBC. “Each of the council’s 10 libraries has had its opening hours reduced by six hours a week, under changes introduced at the start of April. Yet a spokesperson for the library service said the buildings had been “diversifying” to serve modern community needs and the result was that visitor numbers had increased over the past few years. Christine May, the council’s head of libraries, said the sites were “no longer just places to borrow books”.”
• Bridgend – Bridgend’s Library Service Named Best In Wales – Awen Libraries. “Awen Libraries was selected for the success of its first-ever 21 Book Challenge, which has encouraged adults to explore new book titles and authors, discover a variety of new genres and expand their reading horizons.” … “While overall visitor numbers rose by more than 15% between 2022 and 2024, the number of books borrowed also increased by 45% in the same period.”
• Brighton and Hove – Hundreds back campaign to protect popular library from closure – Argus. “More than 1,400 people have signed a petition to try to protect Rottingdean library from closure.”
• Camden – Bafta-winning actor Lee Montague dies aged 97 – BBC. “Keats Community Library said they were “deeply sad” to announce Montague’s death, describing him as a “highly respected actor” who was also “vital to our success”.”
• Central Bedfordshire – Library Services Manager – Central Bedfordshire Council. Vacancy. Full time. From £53k.
• Cheshire East – Nantwich Library to stage benefits “support” drop-ins – Nantwich News. “Nantwich Library is to host a number of benefits and financial support drop-in sessions. They are aimed at helping people find out what you are entitled to as families across the borough face rising bills.”
• Devon – Devon toys and boards libraries an example for Cornwall to follow – Cornwall Live. Not a public library service but shows popularity of reuse: toy libraries at beaches.
  • Braunton Library named best in the South West for community and creativity – Devon Live. “From Lego clubs to floral bookmarks Braunton Library’s bold ideas and deep roots in nature just won it the title of regional library of the year” … “t triumphed over three other regional finalists—two of which, Bideford and Exeter, are also based in Devon and run by the charity Libraries Unlimited, which oversees the public libraries in Devon and Torbay.” … “The standout feature that secured Braunton’s regional win was its involvement in The Gatherers —a project celebrating the natural world and its role in mental health and community wellbeing. Residents were encouraged to collect flowers from gardens, allotments and hedgerows, with participants later pressing the blooms into bookmarks using old library books.”
• Dudley – Dudley Libraries offer free Easter activities for children – Dudley Council.
• Ealing – Join the celebrations at new-look libraries – Ealing Council. “DJ workshops, dancing, live music and art activities will all be on offer – free of charge – to celebrate the reopening of 2 local libraries and the Dominion Centre after a revamp. Acton and Northolt libraries, along with the Southall Dominion Centre closed at the end of last year to undergo a £900,000 transformation.”
• Edinburgh – New temporary library proposed at Davidson’s Mains Primary School – Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. “A new temporary library is being proposed at Davidson’s Mains Primary School, providing Blackhall Library’s key services while plans are developed for a long-term replacement for the previous building at Hillhouse Road. Blackhall Library has been closed since September 2023, following the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RACC).”
• Guernsey – ‘Major transformation’ for library’s study area – BBC. “The study facilities at the Guille-Allès Library in St Peter Port are undergoing a “major transformation”. A library spokesperson said a refurbishment of the Hayward Room had been carried out with the aim of making it brighter and more welcoming for students, remote workers and lifelong learners. The upgrade include new carpet, improved lighting and a new ceiling on the lower level.”
• Haringey – Celebrate International Children’s Book Day at your local library – Haringey Council. Crafts and events. “We have recently launched a new Library of the Month campaign. “
• Hartlepool – Hartlepool’s Seaton Carew Community Hub opens to the public after £250,000 renovations – Hartlepool Mail. “The library has a brand new layout including a communal space, adult lending library, children’s area, public computers and a meeting room.” £200k Libraries Improvement Fund. £50k from Council for the roof.
• Havering – Potential closure of the Gidea Park Library – Hansard. Petition debated: “The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urges the Government to ensure that the Gidea Park library in the parliamentary constituency of Romford is not closed, but rather protected and enhanced as a centre of culture, learning, and local service provision for the people of Gidea Park.”. DCMS reply is that if public wish to report it as breach of statutory duty then they can do so.
  • Goodbye Gidea Park Library-Sad Day As Library Closes Its Doors After 60 Years. – Havering Daily. “Gidea Park Library closed its doors for the final time, after serving the adults and children in the community for over sixty years. “
  • Havering library closures: Librarian fears for community’s future – Romford Recorder. “Corinna Guthrie, a librarian for Essex Libraries, said she is “deeply saddened” by the closure of Gidea Park, South Hornchurch and Harold Wood libraries, which she worries will have an impact on different community groups in the borough. The libraries shut for good on March 31 after Havering Council recommended their closure at a cabinet meeting in February.” … “All three of the libraries in question hold a special place in my heart, and their closure has filled me with sadness, coupled with fear for the future of our communities.”
• Leicester – Leicester council plans £2.1m cuts to libraries and community centres – East Midlands Business Link. “The proposal includes transferring 11 facilities to community organisations while retaining 12 sites as “multi-service centres” and keeping the city’s Central Library.”. “Libraries in Evington, Knighton, and Rushey Mead, along with the Tudor Centre, Eyres Monsell Community Centre, and Gilmorton Community Rooms” may go volunteer. “With its library relocated, the St Matthew’s Centre may close, while the Fosse Neighbourhood Centre in Newfoundpool could be sold. The council plans to invest £1 million in the 12 sites it will retain, with five locations—including Beaumont Leys Library Hub and Highfields Library Hub—set to operate with staff hours 40 per week. Additional self-service hours will be available at select locations.”
  • Proposals for Leicester city libraries and community centres – Leicester Council.
• Liverpool – Liverpool Libraries have lots to do for all the family this Easter – Explore Liverpool.

• Nottinghamshire – Inspire: The best libraries in and around Mansfield, Ashfield and Bassetlaw – Chad. “Here are the Inspire libraries located throughout the North Nottinghamshire area, ranked based on Google reviews.”
• Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire library managers up for national award – Oxford Mail. “Witney Library’s Jake Tilling and Hook Norton Library’s Karen Seymour have been recognised at the Libraries Connected Awards for their efforts in the county council’s Making Every Contact Count initiative.”
• Pembrokeshire – Inspiring a love of reading with local authors – Pembrokeshire Council. “took part in the Books Council of Wales ‘Stars of the Shelves’ Initiative – to bring school children into libraries to meet local authors.” … “There was overwhelmingly positive feedback from the pupils who took part, and it is fantastic to see our young people fostering enthusiasm for reading and writing.””
  • Updates to Pembrokeshire library services ahead of change – Western Telegraph. “Pembrokeshire Libraries has joined an all-Wales Public Library Service consortium, with the change of supplier supported by Welsh Government grant funding.”
• Rutland – Rutland Council delays decision over controversial library closure but cash may have been found – Oakham Nub News. “Campaigners fighting to save their village library are feeling hopeful after a senior member of Rutland County Council said money to keep the library open ‘may have been found’. The authority had said a decision on the future of Ryhall Library would be made next week but has put out a statement to say it would be delaying the decision to ‘consider opportunities that merit further exploration with community leaders.’ ”
• Shropshire – Check out my threads! The local library where you can borrow a new outfit – Positive News. ““There’s something about the library,” she said.“It’s not an intimidating boutique or the busy, noisy high street. I’ve had people tell me that sometimes they’ll go into a shop and even the music makes them feel like they don’t fit in there. We want this to feel welcoming and accessible to everybody.”” … “registered as a Community Interest Company and moved the shared wardrobe to its new home at Oswestry library, run by volunteers and backed by a crowdfunding campaign and a grant from Shropshire council.”
• Staffordshire – Tour of prison poetry and artwork to visit Staffordshire Libraries – Staffordshire Council. “The ‘We Roar’ prison collaboration features work created by people in prison and will be available at Stafford library in May and Perton library in June. ”
• Stockport – New self-service printing launched in Stockport libraries – Stockport Council.
• Stoke on Trent – Libraries take another step in digital transformation with Wi-Fi printing – Stoke on Trent Council. “The city council was awarded £300,000 from the Libraries Improvement Fund, which is funded via Arts Council England, and part of this project has involved improving the printing facilities across the city’s six libraries.”
  • Stoke-on-Trent libraries bring back fines from today for first time since Covid – Stoke Sentinel. “”At the moment there is no clear evidence nationally on the impact of removing fines on membership, issues or stock retention. To note this is only for adult members not children, this is still fine free. It is always difficult to predict what income would be generated from fines.”
• Suffolk – Sudbury Town Council urges rethink on Suffolk County Council’s library service takeover due to local government reform – Suffolk News.
• Vale of Glamorgan – First Minister visits Barry Library Makerspace – Welsh Libraries. “The Vale of Glamorgan Council welcomed the Welsh Government First Minister Eluned Morgan and Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Jane Hutt to see the innovative facilities on offer at Barry Library. The visit highlighted the digital learning opportunities available to Vale residents at Barry and Penarth libraries – including the brand-new Makerspaces.”
• Warrington – Library could close as part of bid to save £30m – BBC. “Warrington Council is seeking to close Westbrook Library and also introduce a tiered system, which would see some libraries employing paid staff for fewer hours while others would have no on-site staff at all.” … “Libraries in Bewsey and Dallam, Birchwood, Great Sankey, Orford, and Woolston would become self-service, without “dedicated” library staff, the authority said.”
  • Hundreds of residents protest proposed closure of Westbrook Library – Warrington Guardian. “Between 150 and 200 people attended the first drop-in consultation about changes to library services on Friday, in Westbrook.”
• Warwickshire – Changes to Warwickshire Libraries online services to begin from 9 April – Warwickshire Council. “Warwickshire County Council’s library service is about to begin implementing a significant changeover of its online systems, including its website and app, from Wednesday 9 April – Tuesday 29 April 2025 … Due to unforeseen circumstances, Borrowbox will also now be unavailable during the changeover period to anyone who is not logged into this online service before 8 April … The new library management system will provide a quicker and more user-friendly experience with several new features, including a new Library App which will enable customers to use a digital library card, making issues and renewals much more efficient.”
• West Sussex – West Sussex authors top your ‘most popular’ list – West Sussex Council. “West Sussex residents nominated their most-loved authors and Griffiths, Austen and James were the top three in a list that spans such diverse genres as fantasy, crime fiction, children’s and horror, as well as domestic noir, historical romance and humour.”
• York – Where Did All the Libraries Go? – York Vision. “Transferring services online still doesn’t tackle the issue of accessibility for the people who utilise the technology support that in-person libraries provide, therefore cutting off these groups even more. The facilities libraries provide to communities, separate from those of book loaning, must be appreciated for any real change to be done. The government must see the benefits these centers provide so cuts can be reduced and, wherever possible, prevented.”

Editorial

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

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

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

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

Changes by local authority

• Stoke on Trent – New unstaffed library at Fenton Manor leisure centre, some libraries to eventually become volunteer.
• Wirral – Beechwood, Eastham, Greasby, Rock Ferry and Upton under threat.

National news

• £1.1bn British Library extension plans to go ahead – BBC. “The project will see a total of 700,000 sq ft (65,090 sq m) of new library, learning, research and commercial space on the site in Kings Cross, alongside a redesigned full-height foyer and public entrances.”
• Anti-racist Book Reviews – People’s Collection Wales. “As part of the CILIP Anti Racist Library Collections in Public Libraries in Wales project we collected short book reviews from public librarians in Wales. As part of Phase 1 of the project we bought books – by black authors, about anti-racism, and about diversity in libraries – from small specialist suppliers (Gwales, Books from Nowhere, and Facet). We posted books from the list to each volunteer reviewer. We hope these reviews will encourage library colleagues to read and talk about a range of potentially anti-racist books. Please see the reviewer guidelines for more information and context and feel free to re-use.”

• Libraries are the heart of our rural communities – Friends of the Earth Scotland. “Across Scotland, local councils are closing rural libraries at an alarming rate. In Aberdeenshire alone, there are thirteen currently at risk.” … “I guess long story short, a library is more than just a building. It’s the heart of our rural communities, and we must ensure that they continue beating for the future generations.”
• ‘A library is more than a place with books, it is a lifeline’ – BBC. “The UK is losing libraries at a rate of about 40 each year, BBC research has found. According to those who depend on them, local libraries are far more than a repository of books – they are community focal points and, for some, a vital lifeline to the outside world. What happens when one closes?”
• The library named the best in Wales is revealed – Nation Cymru. “Awen Cultural Trust has won the Welsh title, engaging the local community in the heart of South Wales with their 21 Book Challenge challenging adult readers alongside the children’s Summer Reading Challenge, resulting in converting more parents to reading.”

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

	1/7/2016	31/12/2019	31/12/2021	31/12/2022	31/12/2023
Number of open static libraries included in the dataset	3,010	2,938	2,914	2,894	2,877
Number of open static libraries within the statutory provision	2,727	2,585	2,550	2,576	2,578

Chris Bryant The Minister of State, Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)

• Santander to close almost a quarter of UK branches – BBC. “It said the areas to lose branches would be covered by 95 “community bankers” who will visit local communities on a weekly basis in facilities such as libraries.”

International news

• Canada – Temporary closure of Saskatoon library branches amid overdose crisis needed but won’t fix broader issues: CUPE – CBC. Two branches closed due to high number of drug overdoses. “Library staff responded to at least 48 overdoses or drug poisonings so far this year — almost double the number from the same period in 2024, according to a statement from the public library.” … “Staff at the two branches are routinely stopping people from using or selling drugs, and are removing intoxicated people from the buildings in line with bylaw requirements” … “The provincial government hasn’t increased library funding in the last three budgets and … they took the funding away for harm reduction”.
• Canada/USA – Library on US-Canadian border feels effects of crackdown on movement – Argus. “For more than 100 years, people in Stanstead, Quebec in Canada have been able to walk into Derby Line, in the US state of Vermont to enter the Haskell Free Library and Opera House – no passport required. But municipal and library officials said on Friday that US authorities have unilaterally decided to end the century-old unwritten agreement.” … “In February, the Boston Globe reported that the US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited the library and repeated Mr Trump’s taunts about making Canada the 51st state as she stepped back and forth across the line that marks the border.” see also US blocks Canadian access to cross-border library, sparking outcry – Guardian. USA claims its to stop crimes but “The department provided no evidence of drug trafficking or smuggling and did not immediately respond to a request for additional information.”

• USA – Executive Order Targets the Institute for Museum and Library Services – Publishers Weekly. Trump will reduce IMLS to minimum. “The IMLS is an independent federal agency that plays a key role in distributing congressionally approved funds to libraries, museums, and archives in all 50 states plus five U.S. territories and three sovereign countries. In 2024, it awarded $266.7 million to advance and support libraries, museums, and related organizations” see also Trump’s attack on libraries was predictable. Its consequences could be devastating – Guardian. “We saw this crisis coming, but our response can still make a difference. Let’s ensure that this predictable attack doesn’t quietly become a permanent loss.”
• Tracking the Trump Administration’s Attacks on Libraries – American Libraries.

Local news by authority

• Brighton and Hove – Brighton and Hove council still to decide which libraries to close – Argus. 3 libraries to close but “Councillors were told that Brighton and Hove City Council was currently carrying out a “needs and use” analysis and it would then consult the public.” at to which ones.
• Bristol – Bristol library staff threatened with shotgun and chased down street with machetes – Bristol Post. [This story appears to be untrue – email sent to myself says “no gun was ever seen and no one was ever been chased with a machete.”]
• Bromley – St Paul’s Cray Library reaches finals for library of the year – Bromley Council. “Recent refurbishment brought services together at St Paul’s Cray Library and Community Support Centre, allowing experienced support centre staff to continue to offer advice and guidance locally alongside the high-quality library service found across the borough, which now benefits from enhanced, modern facilities following the works.”
• Cardiff – Cardiff Council Outlines Future Plans for Hubs and Libraries – Business News Wales. “Almost 16,000 new members joined the city’s library service, 1.9 million book loans were issued, more than 78,000 new books were bought and 175,000 children and adults attended events in hubs and libraries in 2023/24.”
• Cornwall – Sensory kits help children interact with stories – BBC. “Five sensory story kits have been bought by Cornwall Libraries, which use props to help engage with the traditional five senses – sight, sound, smell, taste and touch – along with additional ones such as temperature and balance. Along with the five kits, other standalone books which let people create their own sensory stories have also become available to borrow.”
• Darlington – Darlington Libraries initiative to get readers online – Darlington and Stockton Times. “Books that Bloom sees seeded postcards available to pick up across Darlington town centre which explain how to access the libraries’ digital platforms. The postcards detail how you can sign up for Darlington Libraries’ digital services to access an extensive reading catalogue via the Library App and Borrowbox by scanning a QR code.”
• Denbighshire – Denbighshire Libraries’ ‘25 books in 2025’ challenge sees more than 100 sign ups – News From Wales. “Readers are challenged to pick up a bingo sheet and get it stamped each time a book is returned matching one of the categories. “
• East Sussex – Bexhill library book is returned – almost 28 years later – Sussex World. “It was one of 24,000 overdue books which East Sussex Library Service is trying to recover by waiving fines until the end of March in an annual amnesty.” … “Since the amnesty launched on Monday, February 17, nearly 6,000 items have been returned”
• Glasgow – This Glasgow library is set to be transformed and this is the plan – Glasgow Times. Public library sold for £175k. “The former Parkhead Library is being disposed to Hector House – a company that owns an assisted living residence in the city – and will be used as a multi-purpose community and events space with a dedicated function hall.”

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