Ian Anstice

Editorial

There were several librarians named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours this year. The name that stood out to me was Isobel Hunter, the current and first CEO of Libraries Connected, who despite only being in post two years has not put a foot wrong in what could have been quite a difficult time, ensuring that LC has had a strong founding. A notable thing to me is that those honoured have been at chief or very senior level in libraries. While understandable, because they’re at the level that can get things done and are thus noticed, this I think is a bit of shame as there are tons of highly committed and gifted librarians who may not get to that level but still make a huge difference. See my article here for more thoughts on the subject.

Changes by authority

• Cornwall – Liskeard Library transferred to non-profit.
• Redbridge – Woodford Green Library to be refurbished.

National news

• CILIP announces Honorary Fellowships including Library Champion Bobby Seagull – CILIP. “Bobby Seagull and CILIP are delighted to announce that he will be continuing in the role of CILIP Library Champion for 2020-21. In recognition of his services to libraries” … “Alongside Bobby, Honorary Fellowships are also being awarded to Margaret Casely-Hayford, CBE, for services to children’s literature and illustration through her leadership of the CILIP Carnegie and Kate Greenaway Awards Diversity Review; and Pamela Martindale, for her sustained and significant contribution to the library, information and knowledge profession through professional registration.”
• How can libraries play a positive role in the Covid crisis? – Eurolis. Zoom, Wednesdays 14, 21 and 28 October 2020, from 4 to 6pm. Speakers from UK, Portugal, Poland, Catalonia (Spain), Italy, Germany and France.

• How shipping container libraries can help save the public library crisis – Open Access Government. Shipping Container boss praises shipping containers.”BiebBus is a mobile container-based in The Netherlands, which has the ability to let kids have fun and explore the world of books before travelling on to a new place. We all love novelty and shiny new things, and can often get bored when things stay the same. With portable, alternative libraries which are only in town for a limited amount of time, people may feel more of a need to visit. It’s new, and it’s an experience people can try out with their friends.”
• Libraries Week features nationwide Haig event and Bonnier book club launch – BookSeller. “Libraries Week kicks off today (5th October), featuring behind the scenes looks at authors’ bookshelves, a nationwide live reading of The Midnight Library by author Matt Haig (Canongate) and the launch of a Bonnier book club.”
• Living Libraries – Soho Radio. “a celebration of public libraries in the words of people who use, work in and run them. Sarah Pyke and Shelley Trower present the Living Libraries oral history project, 2019-2020 at the University of Roehampton, supported by the Arts and Humanities Research Council. The oral history collection is copyright of The British Library Board and is used with permission.”
• Supporting economic recovery – Local Government First. “With their offer of access to computers, job clubs, CV writing support, skills training and targeted support for start-ups through Business and Intellectual Property Centres (BIPCs), libraries have an important role to play.”
• TWA Heritage Digitisation Grant – Amended to Reflect the Changing Face of 2020 – Town Web Archiving. 3 grants of £3000 each open to libraries.
• Why libraries hold the key to a start-up revolution – Times. Behind paywall.
• Young north-east football fans can support reading challenge – Grampian Online. “This year’s 4-4-2 Reading Challenge has been launched with Peterhead FC supporting the initiative in the north-east. It is the third year of the successful programme which is spearheaded by the SPFL Trust, Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), and Scotland’s libraries.”

Honours

• Susan Hill and Mary Berry awarded damehoods in Queen’s Birthday Honours – BookSeller. “Librarians were well represented in the Birthday Honours. Receiving OBEs were Libraries Connected chief executive Isobel Hunter “for services to public libraries”, and Julie Oldham, head of Library and Museum Services at Bolton Council, and professor Steven John Broomhead, “for services to public libraries” in Chorley, Lancashire. MBEs were awarded “for services to libraries and the arts” to Andrew Bentley in Cheshire and “for services to public libraries” to Michelle Alford in Lancashire, Janet Holden in Suffolk, Sarah Smith in London and Gateshead Library Service manager Stephen James Walters.”
• Andrew Bentley – Queen’s Birthday honours see Holocaust survivor, Storyhouse boss and Crewe hospice fundraiser recognised – Cheshire Live. “Storyhouse chief executive Andrew Bentley, who has been working hard to try to save the theatre from the devastating financial impact of the coronavirus lockdown.”
• Steven Broomhead – Steven Broomhead awarded MBE in Queen’s birthday honours – Warrington Guardian. “Professor Steven Broomhead’s name was listed among others deserving of recognition for their contribution to society following the publication of the full honours list. The award comes following his leadership and chairmanship of the National Libraries Taskforce, in which he helped to implement the Independent Library Report and reinvigorate the national public library service.” … “Prof. Broomhead was previously chair of Warrington’s Libraries Working group, which formed to review the results of consultations over the borough’s provision.”
• Council Chief receives MBE for services to libraries in Queen’s Birthday Honours – Warrington Worldwide.
• Peter Gaw – Inspire CEO honoured in Queen’s Birthday Honours list 2020 – West Bridgford Wire. “The British Empire Medal (BEM) has been awarded to Peter Gaw the CEO of Inspire – Culture, Learning and Libraries in the Queen’s birthday 2020 Honours list in recognition of his service and commitment to Libraries and Culture.”
• Janet Holden – Suffolk’s community heroes celebrated in Queen’s Birthday Honours – East Anglian Daily Times. “Janet Holden. For services to Public Libraries (Halesworth, Suffolk)”
• Julie Oldham – Bolton librarian to be honoured by the Queen for a second time – Manchester Evening News. Julie Oldham received an MBE in 2002 and now has OBE. She retired this year. ““During my career I have been privileged to work with some fantastic people who have inspired me and worked with me to deliver our services, often through challenging times.”
• Stephen Walters – Gateshead individuals honoured – Gateshead Council. “Stephen Walters, Gateshead Council Libraries Manager, awarded the British Empire Medal for services to public libraries”

International news

• USA – A former Austin Library employee is accused of stealing $1.3M in printer toner – CNN. Bought it for the library and then stored it in garage until sold online. He also allegedly fraudulently used library credit cards.
• Walmart’s new store design proves browsing is dead – Fast Company. “Walmart is rearranging many items across the store, consolidating categories such as electronics, toys, and baby products into their own dedicated sections rather than having some items scattered. Then they’re loading these stores with clearer signs to point you around the space. These signs match up with the exact categories and icons you’ll also find inside the surprisingly great Walmart app. The intended effect is what the company is billing as a “seamless” shopping experience between the digital store and the physical one.”

Local news by authority

• Bexley – Sidcup Library closed after staff member in close contact with person with coronavirus – London News Online. “The move may have a knock-on effect with other libraries in the borough, with the authority adding that opening times of other buildings may be impacted as staff are switched around.”
• Blackpool – Two more libraries set to reopen in Blackpool – here’s what you need to know – Blackpool Gazette. Anchorsholme and Revoe.
• Bradford – More services now available at three Bradford District libraries – Telegraph and Argus. “This service will be available at City Library, Keighley Library and Shipley Library.”
• Bury – Ramsbottom becomes second library in borough to reopen – Bury Times. Ramsbottom now open for browsing.
• Calderdale – A hive of activity at Elland Library – Calderdale News Centre. “around 50,000 bees had to be rehomed as part of work to refurbish Elland Library. The town’s library is currently undergoing a £1.75million refurbishment, transforming the building into a community hub providing a range of services.”
  • Decision made over axing of Calderdale libraries, waste centres and services in £2m worth of cuts – Halifax Courier. “Coun George Robinson (Con, Hipperholme and Lightcliffe) argued his ward would have lost two libraries in a matter of months and it would affect older people in the area. The council had been able to find money for Elland Library, some funding for Square Chapel, which has just been rescued from administration, and funding or revenue support totalling more than £6 million for Halifax Piece Hall, he said, which impacted on the reserves it had available to be used in situations like this.”
• Camden – Belsize entrepreneur joins forces with community library to boost local businesses – Ham and High. “He founded the Purposeful Project earlier this year, and his aim is to help one million people start their own businesses. As part of this goal, he’s working with BCL to create a business advice hub and remind people of the power of a good library.”
• Cornwall – Keys to Liskeard Library handed over – Cornish Times. “ handed over the keys to the Library to Lindsey Hall of the Real Ideas Organisation (RIO).” … ““We can now crack on with what is quite a significant renovation project to bring this fantastic building back up to scratch, and able to fulfil its potential as a contemporary library, cultural hub and co-working space.”

“The library building in Barras Street has sat empty for over a year in the heart of our town centre with no refurbishment work even commencing during this whole period. “I just hope that Cornwall Council learn from this debacle and ensure we are never put in this position again where decisions are taken to vacate buildings before the next steps have been secured and agreed.”

Cornwall Councillor for Liskeard Nick Craker

• Coventry – More services on offer at Coventry’s libraries – Coventry Observer. “People can now book 30-minute book-browsing slots and 45-minute computer selections, along with click and collect services at Bell Green, Central, Foleshill, Stoke, Tile Hill and Willenhall libraries.”
• Cumbria – Ulverston, Ambleside, Grange and Windermere Library to reopen to the public within weeks – The Mail. “Ulverston, Grange, Ambleside and Windermere Libraries will all open to the public on the week of October 19.”
• Devon – Lucy’s long list of books reaps rewards at Budleigh Salterton Library – East Devon News. Reward for reading 100 books.
• Edinburgh – Book a return to re-opened Kirkliston Library – Linlithgow Gazette. “Library services will be restricted to start, with numbers within buildings limited and social distancing measures in place including face coverings being mandatory.”
• Falkirk – Falkirk area libraries to reopen in phases – here’s what you need to know – Falkirk Herald. “Falkirk Community Trust (FCT) has announced Falkirk Library will return to business as of Monday, October 12, with seven others to follow throughout the rest of October and the beginning of November”
• Flintshire – Aura Libraries: discover what your Flintshire library can do for you – The Leader. “You can now visit Buckley, Broughton, Connah’s Quay, Flint, Holywell and Mold Libraries for select browsing, computer use, or to print and access the photocopier, as well as pick up Select and Collect orders.”
• Hampshire – Changes to Hampshire Libraries’ staffed opening hours now online – Hampshire County Council. “details about the upcoming changes, which the County Council plans to have fully in place by 1 January 2021, are now available”
  • Roll-out of changes to library opening hours in Hampshire – Salisbury Journal. Cuts “to staffed opening hours across libraries in Hampshire will be put in place “gradually” over the next three months, the county council has revealed.”
• Inverclyde – Join Inverclyde Libraries book group – Greenock Telegraph. Twitter.
• Lancashire – Discover “Whodunnit” During Libraries Week In Preston – Preston Hub. “A competition will be held for adult library members to win an iPad. To take part, readers need to review a crime or detective story, and submit this online by using the library services Facebook or Twitter accounts. A winner will be selected at random from the entries.”
• Leeds – National Libraries Week 2020: The Staff of the Central Library – Secret Library. ” In 2019 we invited ex-Library staff from Leeds Central Library to attend something of a reminiscence session with the aim of discovering more about our 1884 Grade II listed building and, while we did discover many things about the building itself, including underground tunnels, tall tales of ghosts and even a missing snake living in the heating system, what was really discovered was a treasure trove of staff memories of day-to-day workings in a large public Library.”
• Leicester – Jobseeking advice on offer at three city libraries – Leicester City Council. “From next week, Jobcentre work coaches will be located at St Barnabas Library, Beaumont Leys Library and the Pork Pie Library & Community Centre.”
• Leicestershire – Book in to take a book out: How to secure your place if you want to visit Harborough library – Harborough Mail. “You are still being asked to book beforehand if you would like to visit Market Harborough library and take out a book. People will be able to queue instead at 15 other main libraries throughout Leicestershire. But the county council said queueing won’t be possible at the library in Market Harborough.”
• Lincolnshire – Take part in Market Rasen Library’s guessing game – Market Rasen Mail. ” have your guess for the books displayed and return the form to the library”
• Manchester – Manchester Libraries – Resilience in 2020 – Manclibraries Blog. “We took many of our services that normally make our libraries bustling hives of activity online. The online reading offer was heavily promoted and our major e-book and magazine platforms saw a big increase in usage. The yearly Chorlton Book Festival went online with author discussions and panel events. We knew digital support for vulnerable and excluded residents would be vital and our offer included 1-1 telephone support, free tablets and data, and even free Chromebooks. “
• Middlesbrough – Middlesbrough library book returned 57 years late – BBC. “The fine would have been more than £500 but charges have been suspended during the pandemic and there would be “no questions asked”, a council spokesperson said.”
• Moray – Moray libraries join in Library Week celebrations – Northern Scot.
• North Yorkshire – North Yorkshire libraries celebrate black history – Northern Echo.
  • App puts the library at your fingertips – North Yorkshire County Council. “Using the app, members can view their account, search the library catalogue and reserve and renew books, as well as downloading e-books and e-audio books and accessing free online reference resources.”
• Northamptonshire – Raunds library ready to welcome readers back this month – Northamptonshire Telegraph. Volunteer library. “The library in High Street, Raunds, will be re-opening on October 20 after several months of closure”
• Oxfordshire – £66k on offer for new short term Oxfordshire library boss – Oxford Mail. “A spokesman for the council said its current libraries manager was leaving to relocate and an interim manager was needed while the search for a permanent boss takes place.”
  • Botley Library to stay shut until it is connected to county council network – Oxford Mail. “It has now been closed for six months and will not reopen until cables are installed to connect the facility to the Oxfordshire County Council network.”. Resident says “”I’m just worried it’ll never reopen.””
  • County takes part in National Libraries Week – Witney Gazette. “The news comes as Chinnor, Woodgreen, Charlbury and Wychwood libraries are set to reopen this month after others across the county have successfully reopened.”
• Pembrokeshire – Newport Library to offer order and collect service – Western Telegraph. Volunteer library.
• Redbridge – Woodford Green Library set for much-needed makeover – Ilford Recorder. “Work on the Woodford Green Library will include redecoration, refurbishment and rewiring throughout. Plans are still in development, but there is a possibility of additional services opening.”
• Richmond – Richmond Council sets out calendar for Black History Month – Richmond and Twickenham Times.
• Shetland – Wishart raises motion in recognition of Shetland Library – Shetland Times. “Isles MSP Beatrice Wishart has lodged a motion highlighting the library’s work, and even pays tribute to the “light-hearted sparring” against Orkney Library – something which, in recent times, has even been highlighted on Radio 2.”
• Shropshire – Library hours to be extended in Shropshire – Advertiser.
• Southampton – Prestigious new title for Southampton library services – Southern Daily Echo. “Southampton’s library service is only the third in the country to be awarded the title that is overseen by City of Sanctuary UK.”
• Staffordshire – Families invited to join celebrations for National Libraries Week – Tamworth Informed.
  • List of most borrowed digital library books in Staffordshire during lockdown is revealed – Lichfield Live. “The county’s library service said The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri had been the most borrowed e-book.”
• Swindon – Vacancy – Library Development & Innovation Manager – Swindon Council. Part-time permanent £32k.
  • Swindon children’s author Steve Antony celebrated during Libraries Week – Swindon Advertiser. ““During Libraries Week, we will be celebrating the time that Steve has generously given to Swindon libraries by showcasing some of the projects we have worked on together and by reading some of his brilliant books online.””
• Warwickshire – Vacancy – Delivery Lead – Libraries (South) and North. Information Professional Jobs. Full-time permanent, £49-56k. Plus other jobs inc. hub team leaders, team leaders, principal librarian.
• West Dunbartonshire – National Eye Health Week: West Dunbartonshire libraries join in – Clydebank Post. “The rule is to look up from your screen every 20 minutes and focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. “
• Windsor and Maidenhead – Coronavirus: Windsor and Maidenhead may need to save £18m in five years – Royal Borough Observer.”In the medium-term financial strategy report, it states the 2021/22 budget will have to make a projected saving of nearly £8.4 million which could see some services, like libraries, being cut back.”

“Libraries were listed as a ‘discretionary service’ to be potentially looked into despite the council having a ‘statutory duty’ to provide efficient library services to residents. The council leader acknowledged libraries are statutory but said RBWM could be looking at a number of avenues to deliver the service such as changing the opening times, the number of libraries and their locations in the borough, integrating the service into another model, etc.”

• Maidenhead Library installs new COVID-19 measures to keep visitors safe – Maidenhead Observer. “Maidenhead Library has opened its doors to the public for browsing and computer use.”
• Wokingham – Earley: Plans to reopen library paused due to covid laws – Reading Chronicle. “The announcement that reopening plans would be delayed was made at the end of September, shortly following the Prime Minister’s ‘rule of six’ public announcement.”
• Wrexham – Wrexham Library Service: Strictly Come Dancing-inspired reading – The Leader.

Editorial

The BookSeller have published an interesting article on library usage, pointing out that it is only at one-fifth to one-third of pre-covid levels. There are many reasons for this situation, some of which are listed below, but it’s still a worrying statistic to be made public at a time when councils are looking for ways to save money:

• much usage has moved online. On the other hand, while such usage is often larger than any single physical library branch, it won’t account for a significant amount of the fall. There were 157m book loans in 2018, while the article states that ebook loans March to August were 3.5m. The “600% increase” figure often quoted as an e-lending rise is not an overall accurate figure for the whole period.
• many libraries are still closed, on reduced hours or click and collect only.
• unlike shops, libraries are not promoting themselves or encouraging visitors. The focus is on safety, not income. Libraries need to be models of safety for their councils, and being risk averse, unlike retail.
• the unique returns aspect of libraries means quarantining of books unlike in shops. This may have a knock-on effect in highlighting risk to users and in keeping popular titles outside of circulation.
• A significant user base for libraries is amongst the old: a demographic most at risk and thus less likely to go out.

An example of an authority trying to save money is Kent, which has the largest number of library buildings of any UK authority, has announced that it will 66 of its 99 branches closed until 1st April 2021. Those normally working in the closed branches have been moved to open ones. Also, reading between the lines, the closure of Stockport Central Library and its moving some time next year to a co-location in an old Argos shop is as likely to be as much about saving money as modernising the service, although it is true that sometimes both can be achieved.

Changes by local authority

• Kent – 66 out of 99 libraries to stay closed until 1 April to save money. Staff redeployed to open libraries.
• Stockport – Central Library to remain closed – will move to old Argos site in shopping centre.

National news

• Collaborations For Libraries: How To Create New Things With Partners – Princh. Includes room hire, using a wedding dress designer to come up with a new staff uniform, and jazz … plus a please to not hurt reputation of library.
• How Yorkshire towns can lead UK fightback – The Yorkshire Post says – Yorkshire Post. North and East Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership says lack of broadband holding back region.
• It Took Covid Closures to Reveal Just How Much Libraries Do Beyond Lending Books – Observer. A look at York Explore, Tacoma, New York, Suffolk, with increase in online usage. “Its many proposals also include the use libraries – many of which are fighting for their futures – as centres to teach new digital skills to the less computer-savvy.”

The American Library Association’s Games and Gaming Round Table (GameRT) is proud to announce that despite COVID-19, International Games Week (IGW) will take place from November 8 to November 14, 2020.  Libraries of all stripes around the world are encouraged to sign up between now and October 24 to be eligible for a drawing for one of three special GameRT Loot Boxes. While GameRT encourages participants to hold a gaming event at their Library during IGW, due to the pandemic, any event held during the month of November can be counted.  This year, GameRT will be spotlighting freely available print-and-play games and listing resources available for libraries to use to set up gaming events online at games.ala.org. 

Darren Edwards, Lis-Pub-Libs

• Levelling Up Our Communities – UK Government. Report by Danny Kruger MP (Conservative) to the Prime Minister on improving community. “The local Library is or should be a crucial element of the social model we need to create, or re-create. Libraries are no longer dusty book depositories. Increasingly they serve as digital hubs and information centres for communities, and places for classes and sessions of all kinds. The British Library’s Business and IP Centre network is supporting local libraries to assist people in starting their own businesses. Even more is possible: siting BBC local radio stations in libraries, spreading the Library of Things network, using libraries for cultural events and exhibitions, and working with Historic England to establish new libraries in old buildings.” … “Government should make a major commitment to support the local library as the hub of the 21st century community”

• Library footfall down 80% on last year – BookSeller. Libraries Connected “… collects weekly figures and, up to the week ending 13th September, they show a very gradual uptick in the number of physical users since lockdown ended for libraries from early July, with footfall still at only around 20% of last year’s level.” … many libraries still closed so those open more at 35% … “the figure is still far lower than for the commercial high street, where more shops have opened fully and footfall has peaked at close to 70% of previous levels.”
• Public Library Apparel – KickStarter. “Apparel to raise awareness and funds for public libraries in the UK.”. Check out these literary themed t-shirts to support ailing libraries – Big Issue.
• Public Library Reopening Poll – Summer 2020 – Lorensbergs. “The results provide a snapshot of the services available at late August/early September and libraries’ plans for the months ahead. A total of 96 library authorities have taken part, with participation stretching across the UK. The findings represent how it’s been necessary for library authorities to respond according to the guidelines and different circumstances of their local areas.”

• Transforming the digital offer for public libraries – BookSeller. “Our goal was not just to conceptualise what a website for public libraries might look like, but rather to think more deeply and strategically about how to improve the use of digital technology throughout the whole public library sector. ” … “We believe that a national digital presence should help everyone discover the power of the public library by making access to knowledge easier and more enjoyable, and supporting every public library to deliver digital services of the highest quality.” … “to build a national digital channel for public libraries” and “develop patterns and designs that local libraries can use and re-work”

International news

• Canada – Book vending machine outside Vancouver Mall library revives pleasure of browsing the stacks – The Columbian.
• EU – News from the NAPLE sistership between Iisalmi City Library and Edinburgh Libraries – NAPLE Sister Libraries. “correspondence between libraries has been active and we have been keeping in touch with emails and Skype meetings. We have also done some small projects together. These have included country specific book exhibitions, sharing content in social media and joint activities of our book clubs. The exchange of ideas has been fruitful and we have very similar opinions concerning the development of our cooperation.”
• Global – Occupy Library – Occupy Library. 3 day online conference. “Occupy Library brings together the innovating ideas that are implemented in libraries in the Central, Eastern European, Black Sea, Caucasus, and Caspian regions. The conference will provide a virtual space for sharing good practices and support best ways to make libraries more involved in their communities.”. Happened last week.
• Ireland – Shhh! Downloads prove a big noise for Ireland’s libraries in lockdown – Times. “Figures show that due to the restrictions imposed because of the pandemic, downloads of ebooks via the app in Ireland have increased to 529,416 in 2020 to date, compared with 345,877 over all 12 months of last year.”
• Maldives – ‘Barefoot bookseller’ sought to run island bookshop in Maldives – Guardian. ““Last time we had everybody from the White House press corps to film directors, lawyers, IT managers, beach poets, retired librarians,” said Blackwell, who is a member of the British bookselling family that sold their chain in 2006. “What works best is somebody with bookselling experience. “
• USA – Passenger Pigeon Manifesto – Peta Pixel. A call for all libraries to preserve and make public historical records.

Local news by authority

• Bath and North East Somerset – Chance to share memories as Bath Central Library marks 30th anniversary – Bath Echo. “The libraries team will be posting on social media throughout the ‘birthday’ with photos through the ages, memories of staff past and present and activities for all ages to enjoy including 30 years of books, a quiz and downloadable bookmarks.”
  • Libraries across Bath & North East Somerset set to reopen for browsing – Bath Echo. “Bath Central, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton Libraries will reopen for browsing and collection of reservations from Tuesday 22nd September, from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.”
• Bradford – Activities planned in district to celebrate Libraries Week – Keighley News. “Top authors from a range of genres are involved in the initiative, which includes free theatre sessions, small-animal workshops and interactive story times for under-fives.”
• Cumbria – Step up in Covid safety measures as more libraries prepare to open – The Mail. “after careful preparation plans are in place to reopen an additional 12 branch libraries across the county on Wednesday, October 21.”
• Hackney – Hackney librarian Jack Houston shortlisted for prestigious short story award – Hackney Gazette. “Come Down Heavy is a moving tale of a friendship between two women living chaotic lives and has been nominated for the BBC National Short Story Award with Cambridge University”
• Hertfordshire – Get Creative with Fun Palaces – Hertfordshire County Council. “Look out for suggestions of creativity for adults and children and simple ideas for community engagement on the libraries social media pages – both the Hertfordshire Libraries pages and those of many local libraries. Join in – it’s fun and it’s free and it will create essential new community connections. #FunPalaces”
• Highlands – High Life Highland announces it will reopen eight further libraries which were forced to close during the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic earlier this year; the sites set to reopen in the next week include ones in Ross-shire, on the Black Isle, on Skye, in Sutherland, Badenoch and Strathspey – Ross-Shire Journal.
• Kent – KCC acts to tackle financial impact of Covid pandemic – Kent County Council. ““As far as libraries, children’s centres and community learning services are concerned, our decision was not an easy one. We know that these are popular service and residents may be disappointed by our decision, as will those staff who will not be able to work at their usual building.”
• Lancashire – Bamber Bridge Library Will Reopen Next Week – Preston Hub. “Libraries at Bamber Bridge, Barrowford, Burnley, Burscough, Cleveleys, Halton, Haslingden, Kingsfold, Kirkham, Mellor and Sharoe Green will reopen from Wednesday 30 September. And libraries at Earby, Ingol, Knott End, and Rishton will reopen from Thursday 1 October.”
• Lincolnshire – Libraries in the Donington, Spalding and Long Sutton area are back open – Spalding Today.
• Liverpool – ‘My First Library Card’ launched for under 10’s across Liverpool – In Your Area. “Parents across Liverpool are being encouraged to pick up a special card for their under 10’s to develop their child’s love of reading. Week beginning September 28, Liverpool City Council’s Libraries and Information Services, in partnership with Edge Hill University, will launch the ‘My First Library Card’ for youngsters up to the age of 10. The library card features a friendly liver bird design, created to appeal to little readers.”
• Norfolk – One of Norfolk’s smallest libraries reopens for first time in six months – Fakenham and Wells Times. “Reepham Library is set to reopen next week after being closed for more than six months.”. Mobile library service to replace Hingham Library for time being because it is too small.
• North Yorkshire – Libraries in Craven prepare to celebrate national poetry day – Keighley News. Virtual poet reading.
• Nottinghamshire – Read all about it: the mobile library is back out on Nottinghamshire roads – Newark Advertiser. “Mobile libraries are back on the roads of Nottinghamshire ­— but offering a click-and-collect service only.”
• Pembrokeshire – Customers set for safe return to Pembrokeshire’s libraries – Pembroke Observer. “Libraries in Tenby, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock and Fishguard will welcome customers back to browse their shelves in person for the first time since March.”
• Portsmouth – Beddow Library Set to Re-Open and Saturday Hours Returning – About My Area. “The re-opening of Beddow library follows after the successful re-opening of Central, Southsea, North End and Cosham libraries in July and August.”
• Southend – Leigh: New chapter for Southend libraries as doors reopen to the public – Leigh Times. “Residents can now visit their local libraries to browse for their favourite novels and books.”
• Stockport – Stockport’s historic Central Library set for move to new ‘cultural hub’ at Merseyway – Manchester Evening News. “Stockport Central Library is to move to the Merseyway Shopping Centre as part of plans to create a new cultural hub in the town centre. It has remained closed since March when the council shut all libraries and museums in the borough as the coronavirus pandemic took hold.”
• Thurrock – Five more libraries to reopen in Thurrock – Your Thurrock. “A further five libraries will open in Thurrock over the next two weeks, following the successful reopening of Grays, Belhus and Corringham in July.”
• Warwickshire – Council urges Warwickshire residents to download NHS test and trace app – Solihull Observer. “The mobile phone application lets users ‘check in’ to any venue or business with areas open to the public – such as pubs, restaurants, hairdressers, cinemas, places of worship, or community facilities such as libraries – by scanning a QR code displayed on a poster at the venue. It will automatically alert users if they have visited a venue where they may have come into contact with the virus”
  • Book lovers can now visit Shipston-on- Stour Library again – Cotswold Journal.
• York – World Turned Upside Down 2020 #haiflu edition – Explore York. ” We are asking people in York to send us poems and drawings that we will use to create a lasting record of what has happened in our lives. The project is called World Turned Upside Down 2020 #haiflu edition.”

Editorial

Windsor and Maidenhead, the” tax avoidance capital” and one of the wealthiest parts of the UK, is considering cutting library opening hours by a quarter in order to save money. Elsewhere, Kingston has also announced a consultation but it is avoids mentioning if this is simply cover to cut funding or not. A new library has opened in Waltham Forest and another in the Vale of Glamorgan has closed for extensive refurbishment. Meanwhile, the troubled Library of Birmingham has been earmarked £3m of the £10m it needs just for maintenance. That place sucks in money. So – good news – this almost sounds like a normal news week pre-Covid.

A librarianship MA student is researching the use and purpose of volunteers at Oldham Libraries for her dissertation and is looking for information professionals to share their thoughts on the topic. The study will involve information professionals completing a survey about their experience and knowledge of volunteers. If you find the project of interest and would like to participate in this survey, please contact the researcher, Nicola Semple. Her email address is nicola.semple@stu.mmu.ac.uk

Changes by authority

• Birmingham – Library of Birmingham needs £11m maintenance over ten years: £3m to be spent on it over 3 years.
• Kingston – Consultation.
• South Gloucestershire – Filton Library closed for repairs.
• Vale of Glamorgan – Penarth Library to be extensively refurbished inc. makerspace.
• Waltham Forest – New Wood Street Library opens.
• Windsor and Maidenhead – Consultation on cutting opening hours by 26% /123 hours from current 475.5

Whichbook

I’ve been a fan of Whichbook for years and so was delighted to see that this one-of-a-kind book recommendation site has been radically improved. Rachel Van Riel, the Director of Opening the Book, the creators of Whichbook, very kindly agreed to answer my questions about it …

What is Whichbook?

A new way to choose a book where the reader is in control. Searching books sites and catalogues usually means keying in an author name or book title. But if you know the name already, your search is likely to turn up books you already know about. No surprises there. Whichbook starts instead from the reading experience you are looking for. Are you in the mood for something funny and optimistic or beautiful and a bit sad? Mix the mood sliders to match what you want and see what comes up. You can choose the race, age, gender and sexuality of the main character or spin the globe and pick the country your book is set in.

What is it like now?

This site is in a completely different league from the old one. The old one had the central idea but it was dated in design, you needed to be keen to use it. People still were keen – we averaged 35,000 a month – but this new one is so juicy and tempting – I defy anyone not to get sucked in to look at just one more possibility – and then another ….

So what’s actually new?

It’s dynamic and not linear. When you change the mood sliders, the book covers instantly rearrange to match, it’s magic. When you choose a main character, you can pick Asian and see a big choice, then choose gay, the book covers change instantly to show that. It’s a celebration of the richness of book cover design and a visual feast. Everything is intuitive – instead of a drop-down menu of countries to choose from, you can spin a globe and land anywhere and see which books are set there. And it is designed to work on tablets and phones as much as PCs and Macs. That’s been a huge job with such a complexity of interaction. But we knew that more than half of users access by mobile phone so it’s essential.

Is it free?

Yes, it’s completely free. For the first time, we have added a donate button as the site has had no public funding since 2003. We have looked at using ads too but they do spoil the design so we’d rather not.

How are the book choices made?

We concentrate on books which may fly below the radar – first-time authors, quirky titles and knock-out covers. Any user can suggest a book. We don’t include the big bestsellers as they don’t need any help to be found. Another great new feature, though, is that you can pick a current bestseller you enjoyed and see a selection of whichbook titles you might like to try next. That could be very useful for libraries with a big waiting list for bestseller reservations.

What’s the library connection?

Click on any book cover to get the book details and you can then Borrow or Buy. Borrow brings up a choice of UK library services with a link that goes straight to author/title level so you can see which branches hold it. The other big connection with libraries is that whichbook readers mostly work in libraries. We have just started a training programme with 10 new readers in Leeds Libraries.

National news

• Annual Report to Parliament on public libraries activities from April 2019 to March 2020 – Gov.uk. “This report provides a review of library activity from April 2019 to March 2020 by government and a number of library stakeholders.”

• Libraries need change from the top – BookSeller. Tim Coates says “Public libraries have been losing the plot for years.” … “and if those currently in charge can’t see or do that, they should be replaced—and very quickly, this autumn. “

• Together We Read – Digital bookclub. “During this two-week program, there will be no waitlists and no holds for the selected ebook. Download Libby to borrow the free ebook from your library using your phone or tablet. “

International news

• China –  Concrete wormhole library – Designing Libraries. “The wormholes, of varying size and intervals, provide surprise and let in natural light. As well as provision for around 10,000 [censored – Ed.] books, the library has bicycle parking facilities, bathrooms and showers.”
• Global – Libraries In Movement – Princh. A look at mobile libraries worldwide including those using donkeys and boats.
• India – Pandemic is the perfect time to build community libraries, here’s why – Times of India. ” news of small community libraries being opened up in different places in Balochistan caught international bestselling author Paulo Coelho’s attention. The idea is to convert unused buildings or places previously misused for drug consumption into small community libraries in towns and villages so that people and young readers get a glimpse of the outside world through stories and books”
• USA/Ireland/ – What’s it like to be a library cat during the pandemic – I Love Libraries. “Library staff know him to be extremely self-sufficient, but during the pandemic people have still been sure to drop by his hut to check in and share snacks.”

Local news by authority

• Aberdeen – Aberdeen’s libraries open doors to welcome back readers – Evening Express. “Central and Tillydrone libraries opened on Monday and the libraries at Airyhall, Bridge of Don, Cove, Dyce and Mastrick opened on Thursday.”
• Aberdeenshire – Public access PCs available to book at Aberdeenshire libraries from next week – Evening Express. “Hour-long slots allow 45 minutes use and the chance for staff to ensure hygiene between users, who are asked to wear face coverings.” From 2 libraries.
• Birmingham – Millions to be spent after fears Birmingham library could soon become unsafe to occupy – Birmingham Mail. “Around £3 million is set to be spent on the Library of Birmingham over the next three years.” … “Last week it was revealed that the library, which opened in 2013, risks becoming unsafe to use without £11 million in maintenance works over the next ten years.”
• Bradford – Call for Bradford poets to enter library competition – Telegraph and Argus. “Libraries hopes to produce two books – one book featuring poems and artwork by children & young people under 18 and another with artwork and poems by adults (over 18).”
• Bridgend – Libraries Reopen For Book Browsing – Awen Libraries. “reopened its Aberkenfig, Bridgend, Maesteg, Pencoed, Porthcawl and Pyle branches for book browsing and borrowing”
• Buckinghamshire – Marlow residents urged to contribute to library art – Maidenhead Advertiser. “Bucks Council is urging Marlow residents to take part in the creation of a new art installation for the refurbished library.”
  • 3,000 people still have library books from before lockdown, but be warned – fine amnesty ends this month – Bucks Free Press. “The fines amnesty that has been in place during lockdown will end on September 30.”
• Denbighshire – Libraries across Denbighshire open for appointment visits – Journal. “Visits to browse and choose books are limited to 20 minutes, and computer sessions are currently limited to 45 minutes, and one per week.”
• Derbyshire – Derbyshire’s mobile libraries gear up to return to the road – Derbyshire County Council. “From Monday 21 September both our mobile library vehicles will start operating again for mornings only and following new routes.” … “Appointment times will last 5 minutes, and for the time being people will not be able to select their own books by going onto the vehicle. Instead, they will be asked what type of books they like reading and a selection will be made for them so they can pick them up at their allotted time.”
  • Derbyshire county libraries to be open by end of the month – Derbyshire Council. “A total of 44 of the county’s 45 libraries will be open and welcoming customers to browse the shelves and choose books by 28 September 2020. Only Wingerworth Library will remain closed for the time being.”
• Dorset – Bookworms rejoice as reservation system gets back up and running – Bridport News. “Reservations will be limited to 10 items per library member at any one time.”
• Edinburgh – Edinburgh Libraries phased re-opening – Tales of One City. “The first phase of opening will see a selection of library buildings across the city reopening on Tuesday 13 October.”
• Eileen Siar – Western Isles libraries to reopen with ‘Connect & Collect’ – Stornoway Gazette. “The phased reopening will initially involve reduced opening hours at Liniclate and Stornoway libraries which will offer a special ‘Connect & Collect’ service.”
• Glasgow – Glasgow Lib Dem library closure letters ‘untrue’, says Susan Aitken – Glasgow Times. “It is understood that Glasgow Life, an arms-length organisation which manages Glasgow’s libraries on behalf of the council – is facing significant financial difficulties. Despite local concerns and an online petition to “save” South Side libraries, there has been no suggestion that libraries will be permanently closed. But the Greens have said that the council is responsible for causing confusion. “
  • Pollokshields residents frustrated as Glasgow Life removes signs expressing love for libraries – Glasgow Times. “locals in Pollokshields designed signs to hang outside their local hub – but these keep being removed by library staff. Resident Katherine Mackinnon said: “I obviously can’t speak to the reasons other folk put them up but, for me, I put a banner up because I was concerned for the future of our extremely well-used and beloved library.” … “One sign, which was removed, read “Reading is Hope” while another said “Our libraries belong to our communities”.”
• Gwynedd – Library appointments available to book from today – Cambrian News. “As part of a pre-booking system, residents will be able to access the public computers and go to the library to browse and choose their own books.”
• Hampshire – Library opening hour changes to be unveiled in Hampshire – Salisbury Journal. This month. “The 40 county council-run libraries, including Fordingbridge and Ringwood, are set to have new opening hours following  a public consultation.”
• Inverclyde – Inverclyde Libraries has unveiled the new theme for its online discussion group – Greenock Telegraph. “For the next few weeks, readers are being encouraged to choose books with strong female lead characters”
• Kingston – Kingston Council to work with local communities to reimagine local library services – Kingston Council. “The first phase of the transformation process will take place between 1 September and 21 October. “
• Leicester – Five more city libraries to reopen next week – Leicester City Council. “From Monday 14 September, Evington Library, Fosse Library, Knighton Library, Rushey Mead Library and Westcotes Library will reopen to the public.”
• Leicestershire – Thousands of people have visited Leicestershire’s main libraries – including Harborough’s – since a browsing service has been restarted – Harborough Mail. “More than 5,500 people have visited Leicestershire’s main libraries”
• Manchester – More Manchester libraries set to reopen from next week – About Manchester. “Abraham Moss, Arcadia, Beswick, Brooklands, Hulme and North City will all reopen, along with community libraries in Burnage, Barlow Moor, Fallowfield, Miles Platting and New Moston. For the two remaining Manchester libraries where a reopening date is yet to be confirmed, Northenden and Powerhouse, work is continuing to ensure that these facilities can reopen to visitors as soon as possible.”
• Northern Ireland – Libraries in local area return to normal hours – Coleraine Times. “Libraries NI has announce that libraries that were part of Libraries NI’s first two pilot phases for reopening have returned to normal hours including opening Mondays and Saturdays.” … “These libraries are Antrim, Ballymoney, Bangor Carnegie, Belfast Central, Brownlow, Carrickfergus, Coleraine, Cookstown, Derry Central, Downpatrick, Enniskillen, Lisburn City, Maghera, Newry City, Omagh, Portaferry and Strabane.”
• North Somerset – More libraries reopen across North Somerset – Mercury.
• Northumberland – Some services could return to Northumberland libraries – News Post Leader. Time limited browsing in some libraries.
• North Yorkshire – North Yorkshire’s home library service resumes – Harrogate Informer. “Home library service volunteers select books and audio books for delivery. All books are left on a pre-arranged date in a secure place and collected and quarantined afterwards.”
  • Libraries welcoming back customers with measures – Northern Echo. “Customers can visit, browse for and borrow books in many libraries, and most are offering access to computers, which allow for two-metre social distancing and are cleaned between each use.”
• Plymouth – All Plymouth public libraries to reopen in the next few weeks – Plymouth Live. “Following the coronavirus lockdown, the council introduced a collection service at Central, Plymstock, St Budeaux and Southway. In a second phase, Central Library in the city centre opened for browsing and pre-booked use of computers.”
• St Helens – Letters in lockdown initiative praised after engaging with 180 isolated residents – St Helens Star. ” sending hand-written letters in stamped addressed envelopes to residents registered with the library service’s Home Delivery Service.”
• Shropshire – Million-selling author at online libraries event – Whitchurch Herald. “Lesley Pearse will give the talk to Shropshire on Wednesday, September 17 at 6pm to complement the Libraries from Home initiative from Libraries Connected”
• Somerset – Book lovers invited back to browse at Somerset library – In Your Area. “The county council in Somerset rolled out a phased opening of libraries by offering an order-and-collect service and now Wellington is one of the first libraries to let the public back in to browse the shelves for themselves – all done with strict social distancing and infection control measures in place.”
• South Gloucestershire – Leader’s column: Libraries are now fully open again – Gazette series. “All customers are required to wear face coverings. Opening times are shorter than normal hours with all libraries closing at 4pm. The number of people using a library at one time is limited and IT users are encouraged to book in advance to ensure a PC is free at the time they want to visit.”
• Southend – Southend Council re-opens libraries today – Clacton Gazette. All now open.
• Suffolk – Online coffee mornings for new parents – Ipswich Star.
  • Browsing returns to Suffolk’s libraries in September – Suffolk Libraries. “Around half of libraries have reintroduced browsing already, with one-way systems in place and limitations on the number of customers allowed in library buildings in any one time.”
• Vale of Glamorgan – Penarth Library to undergo extensive refurbishment project – Vale of Glamorgan Council. “Brand new computing facilities will replace the current IT suite. The space will also house a makerspace, a location where library users can gather to co-create, share resources, work on projects and network.”
• Waltham Forest – New Wood Street Library building opens – Waltham Forest Echo. “Originally supposed to open late last year, the new building in Troubridge Square on the Marlowe Road Estate is open seven days a week, for double the hours of the previous library building. The former Wood Street Library site will be sold for redevelopment to fund both the new library and part of the extension of Lea Bridge Library. Many residents have mourned the loss of the original building, which dates from the 1950s and is set to be demolished.”
• Warrington – Padgate and Penketh libraries latest to reopen – Warrington Guardian. “Warrington’s remaining closed libraries, Birchwood and Westbrook, are provisionally scheduled to reopen in late October.”
• Warwickshire – Whitnash and Lillington libraries are now open for click & collect services for first time since lockdown – Kenilworth Weekly News.
• West Berkshire – Funding pledge to support Thatcham Library for another year – Newbury Today. “Town councillors agreed to pay West Berkshire Council the sum, which amounts to around £24,000, at a meeting last week. The district council had proposed to close libraries as part of budget cuts. But after strong protests and the Government saying it couldn’t, the council asked town and parishes to help cover a £150,000 shortfall to keep eight of its nine libraries open.”
• West Sussex – Share a Poem of Hope with West Sussex Libraries – District Post. “The poems are being requested as part of an online campaign to celebrate National Poetry Day which takes place on Thursday 1 October.”
  • Lesley Pearse to give free online talk through West Sussex Library Service – The Argus.
• Wiltshire – Further eight libraries to reopen – including Amesbury – Salisbury Journal. “From Monday, September 14, libraries in Amesbury, Bradford on Avon, Calne and Marlborough will open, followed on September 21 by Royal Wootton Bassett, Westbury and Melksham. People won’t be able to drop-in and browse at these libraries but an order and collect service has been set-up providing access to books.”
• Windsor and Maidenhead – Windsor and Maidenhead library hours could be slashed to save money – Royal Borough Observer. “It is proposed to reduce opening hours during the week by 123 hours – which RBWM believes it will still deliver a ‘comprehensive library service’ and deliver savings at the same time.” … “The borough currently has 475.5 total library opening hours a week – the most in the Berkshire area.”
• Wrexham – Wrexham Library Service: research your ancestry for free – The Leader.

Editorial

Recovery continues, although the latest Libraries Connected figures showing a far slower return to libraries than to shops. This is, however, honestly to be expected as still only a small fraction of branches are fully open, with most only offering partial services and many still closed, although Sandwell is now the only library service not to have any form of physical service at all.

In other news – now there is other news – it’s been reassuring to see the huge fight put up in Glasgow over possible closures, resulting in the assurance this week that all branches are safe. Like most book readers, I do like a happy ending and the Scottish have apparently managed to get one there.

Changes by local authority

• North Yorkshire – Malton Library to be refurbished.
• St Helens – Central Library will reopen inside Heart of Glass museum on 14 September.

National news

• Boris Johnson and the revenge of the school librarian – TES. “Lining the shelf just behind Mr Johnson’s head were titles with rather unflattering associations for any political leader, including “The Twits”, “The Subtle Knife”, “The Resistance”, and “Betrayed”. And sticking out like a sore thumb was “Fahrenheit 451”, a dystopian novel about a society where books are banned.
• Burning the books by Richard Ovenden – BBC Radio 4. 14 minutes, first episode of five. “Richard Ovenden, director of the Bodleian Library, explains how attacks on libraries and archives have been a feature of history since ancient times, but have increased in frequency and intensity during the modern era. Libraries are far more than stores of literature, through preserving the legal documents such as Magna Carta and records of citizenship they also support the rule of law and the rights of citizens.”
  • Leicestershire librarian ‘feels sorry’ for PM over book backdrop – BBC. “A former school librarian has said she “feels sorry” for Boris Johnson after a book display intended as a message to her former employers ended up making waves on social media.”
• Lesley Pearse launches Libraries Connected #LibrariesFromHomeLIVE virtual event series – Libraries Connected. “Hosted via Zoom, Facebook Live and Live Webinar the series will kick-off with Bristol Libraries on the 10th September and conclude with a special Friday Fizz! Event with Manchester Libraries on the 25th September.”
• Libraries: helping local communities find work – Arts Council England. “As the country tries to recover economically from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, libraries are extremely well-placed to help people looking for work and support their communities.” … “Data provided by Norfolk Library Service, Somerset Library Service and Wandsworth Library Service to Libraries Connected for the weeks immediately following lockdown indicate that …”

“Libraries have always supported their local communities by offering resources and facilities throughout people’s lives – from toddler rhyme times to supporting the elderly, the isolated and the vulnerable. However, as the economy begins to recover from Covid-19, libraries are extremely well-placed to help those people who are looking for work. I know that up and down the country, library staff will be doing everything they can to support those in their community who need to get back to work or change career path.”

Sue Williamson, Director, Libraries, Arts Council England

• Reading Challenge aims to support pupils returning to school – Grampian Online. “he challenge is available to all primary and secondary schools as well as community groups and libraries in Scotland, and aims to build positive reading cultures and improve literacy for young people. Now in its fifth year, the programme is run by national charity Scottish Book Trust and over a third of all schools in Scotland took part in the challenge last year. The First Minister’s Reading Challenge aims to support teachers and pupils returning to school after lockdown with additional resources and funding.”
• Troubled Capita to Sell Another Software Business – CBR. “Capita’s Education Software Solutions business also includes “Reading Cloud”, a library and resource management system that is used by some 15,000 schools, and AGILIT-e: management software for universities that is used by 30 higher education institutions in the UK and Ireland, according to Capita.”
• Webinar: Phased Reopening of Libraries :Warwickshire Libraries and IF_DO Architects  – Bibliotheca. Tuesday 1 September 2pm.
• We’re back! How public libraries have been reopening their doors – Libraries Connected. “We have just a snapshot of around 1 in 3 public libraries at the moment, but we’ll be collecting this data over the coming months to build up a more detailed picture of how library services are recovering. ” … “In the first week of opening, libraries saw 8% of their usual visitor numbers, and over the 6 weeks to mid- august this rose to 15%. However, this comparison is based on footfall numbers last year when all library sites were open, so with the 15% figure is more likely to be between 20 and 40% of usual footfall for those sites that are open. “
• What Does Quality Mean for a Modern Library Service? – Libraries Connected. Recording of video chat, virtual consultation.

International news

• Kenya – Stevenage charity appeals for hands-on help with delayed library project – Comet. “A charity is appealing for volunteers to help load tens of thousands of donated books into a shipping container, which will then be sent to Kenya and converted into a library for a deprived community.”
• USA – You CAN Run a Successful Library Card Sign-up Month Campaign in the Age of COVID-19! Try These Six Ideas for Recruiting New Cardholders – Super Library Marketing. “we won’t let a pandemic stop us from bringing new cardholders into our library family”

• To-Go Library Services – ALSC Blog. “…  as the months wear on, we’ve come to realize that patrons (much like their hard-working librarians) are pretty burnt out on technology. So last month when we reopened to the public, the Youth Services Team rolled out a few fresh ideas for engaging with our community.”

Local news by authority

• Aberdeenshire – More libraries join Aberdeenshire wide click and collect scheme – Grampian Online. “Click and Collect and doorstep deliveries will be available from both Inverurie and Peterhead libraries from next Tuesday (September 1), offering a safe way to access resources.”
• Blackpool – Blackpool’s main library is to reopen and here’s what you need to know – Gazette. “Blackpool Council will be opening the library on September 1 as the start of a phased steps towards a full reopening.”
• Caerphilly – Caerphilly Libraries Launch ‘Order And Collect’ Service – Wales 247. “From Monday 24th August, residents can request items of stock which they can collect at a convenient time from one of seven libraries operating the scheme.”
• Cheshire East – Alderley Edge Library prepares to re-open – Alderley Edge .com. “The library has been closed since the early stages of the pandemic and was unable to reopen along with other libraries in Cheshire East due to its size and ability to respect social distancing. The library will initially open on Tuesdays only …”
• Conwy – Conwy libraries resume computer access after coronavirus lockdown – Journal series. “Conwy County Borough Council said its library members at Abergele, Colwyn Bay, Conwy, Llandudno and Llanrwst must pre-book before arrival as there is limited access to computers to ensure a safe environment. The free call and collect service is also in action at the county’s libraries, in which books can be ordered online or by phone.”
• Cumbria – Cumbria County Council reports surge in use of online library services since Covid-19 lockdown – Westmorland Gazette. “Figures released by Cumbria County Council reveal that the number of people using eBooks and eAudiobooks more than doubled in the 19 weeks since libraries were forced to close, compared to the previous 19-week period, with 2,042 people using the service for the first time compared to 861.”
• Dumfries and Galloway – Stewartry libraries and galleries back open in latest round of lockdown easing – Daily Record. “The sites in Castle Douglas, Dalbeattie and Kirkcudbright are open on a limited basis due to current guidelines with the facilities in Dalry and Gatehouse remaining closed for the time being.”
• East Riding of Yorkshire – Council delivers appy news for library customers – Pocklington Post. “Using the same app that Library members already access free eMagazines and eAudiobooks – RB Digital – users will now notice that eNewspapers are also available to download. “
• Essex – Anthony Roberts Column: Here we come! The cavalry on our bikes – Clacton Gazette. “The little party we joined are walking from branch library to branch library this week. They duly set off for Stanway Library – now don’t get me started on tiny little Stanway Library, even by branch library standards it’s an absolute little peach of a library.”
  • SOLE to host protest through Essex to protect future of libraries – Clacton Gazette. “The seven day march, which started at Manningtree Library last Saturday, is set to stop at libraries across Great Wakering, Hullbridge, Hockley and Rochford, before ending outside County Hall in Chelmsford on Saturday.”
• Glasgow – Susan Aitken: Closing Glasgow’s libraries would not help us rebuild communities – Glasgow Evening Times. “Despite what some Glasgow Times readers may have heard in the past week, there are no plans to close any of Glasgow’s libraries. And no libraries will remain closed for any longer than is absolutely necessary. I say that as leader of the City Council on whose behalf Glasgow Life delivers its services.”
  • Greens Patrick Harvie launches campaign at Govanhill Library to ‘save Glasgow Life’ – Glasgow Times. Harvie’s £38m bailout plea to save libraries and leisure centres – Herald Scotland.
  • SNP leader Susan Aitken promises no Glasgow Life libraries will close amid Covid fears – Glasgow Times.
• Hampshire – Reduced opening hours for Hampshire libraries to be revealed in September – The News. ” a county council document revealed that the opening hours of some libraries could increase or decrease by up to 39 per cent ‘to achieve a standardised approach’.”
• Inverclyde – Inverclyde Libraries continue click and collect service – Greenock Telegraph. “The service runs at Greenock Central, Port Glasgow and Gourock and books can be picked up between 10am and 2pm.”
• Kent – Library to reopen at Dover Discovery Centre and browsing at Deal is expected to follow – Kent Online. “In the meantime, KCC has also re-opened the archive search room at the Kent History and Library Centre in Maidstone.” … “The first 12 libraries that opened across Kent in July will continue to offer a “select and collect” service for the time being.”
• Leicester – Five more city libraries to reopen next week – Leicester City Council. “From Tuesday 1 September, the Brite Centre Library, Belgrave Library, Hamilton Library, Highfields Library and New Parks Centre Library will reopen to the public”
• North Lanarkshire – Opening date announced for one local library only – Cumbernauld News. “… readers in Kilsyth and Condorrat will not be able to visit their own branches as yet – because the only other local authority library to re-open at this stage is is in Coatbridge.”
• Northumberland – Time-limited browsing now offered in some Northumberland libraries – News Post Leader. “The service to Northumberland Library members has been introduced at Rothbury, Wooler and Bellingham. Other libraries are expected to follow suit in the coming weeks. Customers will have 15 minutes to browse and make their own selection.”
• North Yorkshire – Dogs Trust online workshop courtesy of Northallerton library – North Yorkshire County Council. “The Dogs Trust Education Team has teamed up with Northallerton library to host the online workshop “
  • Malton library to close for major refurbishment – Gazette Herald. “The improvements by North Yorkshire County Council will include a new-look children’s library, an IT and study area and new books for all ages.”
• Nottingham – Nottingham’s Central Library will not reopen as council prepares to sell building – Nottingham Post. “Central Library on Angel Row has been declared ‘surplus to requirements’ prior to its sale, it has been confirmed today. It is set to be replaced by the new Central Library in the Broadmarsh Bus Station and Car Park.”
• Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire libraries celebrate 150 years of education for children with events – Herald series. “School – Best Days of Your Life? will run from September 2-16 on Oxfordshire Libraries Facebook page.”
• St Helens – The new St Helens library will open next month inside The World of Glass – St Helens Star. “… new St Helens library is set to open to the public next month after being created inside The World of Glass. St Helens town centre has been without a library since the closure of Central Library, based in the Gamble Building, in March 2017.” … “on Monday, September 14, the new library site will be unveiled inside The World of Glass.”
• Surrey – More Surrey libraries to open their doors – Surrey News. “In all, 38 libraries will be open for public access and will also offer limited use of PCs in the library buildings. Customers can continue to make use of the new Ready Reads service where the library team selects books based on individual preferences.”
• Vale of Glamorgan – Bestselling author Lesley Pearse launches Libraries Connected – Barry and District News. “A much-loved author in libraries, Ms Pearse will speak at six events across the UK during September co-ordinated to lead up to National Libraries Week which runs from October 5 to October 10, 2020.”
• Wiltshire – Wootton Bassett Library to reopen as students return to school – Swindon Advertiser. “The library in Borough Fields will only be offering an order and collect service, with computers available for advance booking online.”
• Wokingham – Library stays closed for now – Henley Standard. Wargrave: “Wokingham Borough Council has re-opened the bigger Woodley and Wokingham libraries with new safety measures due to the coronavirus outbreak. But librarian Ros Fernley says she doesn’t know when Wargrave will follow suit. She said: “I guess we need to see how the big two get on first and monitor how safely we can work.””
• York – York Explore libraries all set to re-open again – The Press. “Smaller libraries, as well as the larger Explore centres which opened in July, will be open and customers will be able to drop-in to browse the books for the first time since March. Opening times will vary, with shorter than normal hours at some places and all libraries closing by 5pm. The Reading Cafes at York, Acomb and Tang Hall libraries will re-open too and there will be books to borrow again at the cafes in Rowntree Park and Hungate.”

Editorial

At time of writing, it has been 144 days since the official start of lockdown and things are continuing to open up. Holidays are being taken, relatives visited and shopping done. However, many places abroad are seeing the much-feared second wave and the curve for the UK itself is looking worryingly upward-turning. In public libraries, more services are being added and librarians continue to emerge blinking (and, one cannot help but notice, often very tanned) into the new world, with as far as I can tell only 3 out of 150 English services (Barking and Dagenham, Bedford and Sandwell) still not offering some sort of physical service.

Speaking personally, the high point of my week was hosting a very successful session from John Kirk, who did a brilliant online Twits show for 40 or so enthralled (and highly participating) children. Interestingly, that’s more kids than I’d normally expect for a physical show. We got talking afterwards (see the interview below for the result) and discussed what will be happening to libraries medium term. And basically what we agreed was that it is going to be online. It looks like Covid may well come back, or at least not go away, and that the risks it induces mean that physical events will be difficult for the foreseeable future. This, combined with more people getting used to teleconferencing, shows the need for us to do more of that. And, as time goes by, the quality will need to continue to improve.

The good news is that digital should be very cheap and it is just the skills and the will that libraries need to develop. For example, it’s far less costly for a library service anywhere in the country to hire a storyteller like John for Zoom than it would be to pay his travelling expenses. And if 2 or 3 library services clubbed together, it’d be frankly ridiculously cheaper. So the opportunity is there. Libraries just need to grab it, as they have done before, and not let the digital slip but, rather, continue to improve.

An interview with John Kirk, professional storyteller

What do you enjoy most about storytimes in public libraries? 

I have been working in public libraries since 2012.  To date, I have worked with 80 library authorities in England, Scotland and Wales and a few school’s library services.  I love working in public libraries.  For me, it’s all about getting out there, meeting new people, seeing new places and sharing the fun of stories with family audiences.  I suppose these are also the things I have missed the most during the lock down.  Nobody treats me and my work with more respect than the library staff I have worked with and it’s a real privilege to be a small part (in some cases a fixture) in some family’s summers. 

Nobody treats me and my work with more respect than the library staff I have worked with

What do you least enjoy? 

My life has changed hugely over the time I have been telling stories in libraries.  As the years have passed I do more and more travelling.  It’s very satisfying to work with library audiences across the UK but the nights away from my three year old daughter can be tough at times.  I also find it quite hard to have built relationships with librarians, to hear about cuts and restructures and then to invoice people I consider friends – there are some libraries whom I would pay to work with I enjoy visiting them so much, honestly I would! 

Is there something that a library service did that really impressed you?) 

Librarians are an incredible breed of people.  I don’t think they always get the credit they deserve for what they do in their communities.  They are also risk takers and I owe what has been a fabulous period of my life to people like Sean Edwards, Geoff James, Lesley Davies, and Hilary Marshall to name just a few of the wonderful people who have been so very supportive of my work. 

For me there are a couple of authorities who offer a really varied programme of activities and then promote them really well to their audiences (not to embarrass them but Brent and Redbridge). 

For me the biggest challenge that libraries face is telling the world how great the stuff they do is; that libraries are about more than books.  For me there are a couple of authorities who offer a really varied programme of activities and then promote them really well to their audiences (not to embarrass them but Brent and Redbridge).  Most libraries now push events on social media but nothing beats proactive staff talking to their service users about what they are doing and posters, big, colourful posters. 

Looking at the changes wrought by the current crisis, where do you see storytelling in the next year or so? 

In a word; online.  In the week before lock down I was touring Yorkshire Libraries.  On the Monday we managed to persuade a group into a library in Wakefield, on the Tuesday Rotherham Libraries ran me round to the local schools but by that evening remaining dates in Sheffield, Barnsley and York were indefinitely postponed.  In the following weeks I had to cancel my plans and bookings for summer 2020 and put an entirely new plan in place.  This summer I have run sessions using Youtube, Facebook Live, Zoom and Google Meets literally all over the country (in one day I worked with Stoke on Trent, Bristol and Swindon and North Tyneside without going beyond my front door!). 

I’d love to think that on a given date at a given time I could do an event and simultaneously broadcast to every library in a given authority.  Yes, it’d probably be a technical headache but imagine the sense of community when the different audiences could see each other joining in with a story?  Then there are all kinds of opportunities to work with other library services.  One of my favourite moments of the summer was when I told “The Gingerbread Man” and staff from Croydon, St Helens, Hertfordshire, Thurrock, Swansea, Kingston and Tameside Libraries were there because they had promoted the event in their authorities.  To be a part of the discussions afterwards was very special. 

Yes, this isn’t how I saw my summer and I am gutted not to be telling Mr Gum in libraries as planned but actually the crisis creates an opportunity for storytellers like me to work with more libraries in far flung places at much more affordable prices (I don’t have to charge travel expenses to walk from the kitchen to the spare bedroom).  I can see libraries reopening but I can’t see face to face events taking place for a while yet.  That doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t try to do live events.  It’s a lot easier for a public audience to socially distance if the front portion of the room isn’t taken up with my kit. 

Is there anything libraries can do to adapt to the new world better? 

I think that libraries have to embrace the new normal and the technology.  If you don’t have an active social media channel where you control the content and are engaging with service users everyday this should be a priority – Greenwich Libraries Baby Rhyme Time sessions on Facebook are brilliant example of how social media can work harder for library services.  I know that there has been resistance to Zoom from some councils because of security concerns.  I will always preference video conferencing over video sharing platforms because in a shared space, albeit a virtual one, you can interact with the audience.  In my retelling of Roald Dahl’s “The Twits” I encourage the adult in charge to spray sticky glue (water) over my audience.  I have also developed a scavenger hunt storyline for families with children 3+.  These elements of my sessions have been very popular and came about because I have tried to push the limitations of the technology and make my storytelling a 4D experience. 

How did you get into storytelling? 

Twenty years ago I trained as an actor.  When I decided to stop I struggled with an office job and it was suggested that I should write my own show.  When a school described me as a storyteller the title stuck.  I am still a high energy performer with a fairly theatrical style but these days I do a lot more traditional storytelling.  I have been very lucky with the authors I have worked with; people like Jeremy Strong, Terry Deary and Tom Palmer were brilliant to work with but the key moments were when Haringey Libraries recommended me to tell Michael Morpurgo’s “Private Peaceful” as part of City Read 2014 and when I got the rights to tell Roald Dahl’s “The Twits” in 2016; in two years I went from working in a small area of north London to travelling to libraries, schools and festivals around the country and to date have worked as far afield as Germany and the UAE.  I love what I do.  I wouldn’t have changed the last twelve years for anything but it’s not been without challenges and whatever the world looks like for me after the current crisis you can be sure it’ll include storytelling. 

How do you adapt storytelling to Zoom? 

It hasn’t been easy but I try to make everything I do fit the camera.  I am very conscious of framing when I tell a story to the camera.  I also like to play with my proximity to the camera (I’ll come right up to it and I’ll talk directly to members of the audience).  I’ve already mentioned some of the ideas I have played with to make my sessions more interactive but I also encourage the children to pull faces and I do a lot of role play and movement within stories.  I am also conscious of the adult watching and encourage them to take photos, leave comments and like and share videos.  It’s all about getting them to come back to the library’s website and enagage with the next activity so that when services return, libraries hit the ground running. 

How do kids take to it? 

I do tell a lot of different stories but by far the most popular are by Roald Dahl.  I use wigs, instruments and props to find fresh and dynamic ways to tell my stories which hold the children’s attention but The Twits and The Enormous Crocodile endure as masterpieces and I reckon a child would be hooked by Dahl’s words if they were watching whilst wearing a swimsuit in an igloo.  Seriously though, the feedback has been beyond my wildest expectations and I’m just so happy to have been a part of my seventh Summer Reading Challenge. 

Have you been surprised by anything online / had an amusing moment etc? 

A couple of weeks ago I completely forgot I was supposed to be running a session and had to do all my preparation in literally ten minutes – I can laugh about it now but at the time I was frantic.  I was interrupted by a lawnmower whilst running a session for Thurrock and one of my neighbours went to check on another of my neighbours after hearing a lot of shouting – it was me, I had the windows open!  They’re all quite used to it now and some say they know all the words! 

John Kirk is originally from Chorley in Lancashire but is now based in East Sussex.  He’s trained as an actor, been involved in several theatrical productions, as well as doing other jobs. John works regularly work in early year centres, primary schools, libraries and museums and has been involved in several major events including the Cultural Olympiad (2012), Great War commemorations (2014-2018) and #Shakespeare400 (2016). His website is here.

National news

• 1000 Tiny Fun Palaces – Libraries Connected. Watch recording of webinar from Stella Duffy “This year, Fun Palaces weekend on 3 and 4 October will be different – sometimes smaller, always safer, but as ever remarkable. We hosted this webinar on 4 August led by Fun Palaces’ amazing and inspirational Director Stella Duffy to talk through the new possibilities for extra-small, hyper-local Fun Palaces in libraries.”
• ‘George Eliot’ among 25 female writers being republished using their real names – CNN. “The 25 novels are being offered as e-books, which are free to download via the prize’s sponsor, Baileys. Physical box sets of the republished titles will also be donated to libraries across the UK.”
• Library Open Data: an update – DCMS Libraries. ” How can we engage services and library staff to understand how important this data could be? How do we make sure that staff have the skills and confidence to take on a data role? We hope that some of the examples on the schema site will go some way to highlighting what can be done if data is published in an open and standard format.”
• Local advocacy – Libraries: An essential part of local recovery – Libraries Connected. “In our new local advocacy resource, we’ve identified five key areas where libraries can play a central role in meeting the needs of individuals and communities who may be struggling to overcome the effects of the Covid-19 crisis.”
• Supporting public libraries through a national digital presence – British Library. Looking at the minimum viable product (that is, the least that can be done for it to be worthwhile) and what more could be achieved, plus progress before and future plans.
• What does quality mean for a modern library service? – Libraries Connected. 21 August 2pm webinar. “The session will begin with some provocations from speakers outside of the sector talking about what a quality library service means to them. The virtual floor will then be open to everyone who would like to contribute, or just listen in on what should be a great discussion.”
• When will libraries open in Scotland and have they reopened in the rest of the UK? – Metro.

International news

• Colombia – Pandemic pen pals: How Colombian libraries lift spirits – Christian Science Monitor. ““the kids kept coming to the library,” she says, and family programming continued. “It’s the protective space of the community, a space of liberation from the problems of the neighborhood. Here, libraries have played a really important role in constructing peace, but even more than that, creating community.””

“The written word allows us to understand other humans, and whether we’re reading a novel, a story, or a letter, it helps us understand we’re not alone,”

• EU – Will European public libraries be set back tens of years from 2021? – Biblioteket tar saka. As well as the likelihood of budget cuts “it will not be easy to run, or to re-invent, a library in a generalised two-meter society where events are forbidden, 75 % of chairs are removed, services to customers have to comply with social distancing rules and library’s outreach is restricted in many ways.”
• Ireland – Libraries remove vital trans teen book after disgraceful far-right letter writing campaign linking LGBT+ lives to paedophilia – Pink News. “Beyond Magenta by Susan Kuklin consists of six interviews with trans teenagers about their lives and was published in 2014. Since then, the book has been assailed by anti-trans activists who have called for it to be banned. Cork City Libraries opted to remove Beyond Magenta from its shelves and have it re-processed for “adult/YA lending” – which requires adult consent – after they received a letter from a far-right activist.”
• Lebanon – Help rebuild Beirut’s libraries – Libraries Deliver. “Among the tremendous human tragedy and loss of life caused by the explosion in Beirut on the 4th August came the heartbreaking news that three of the main municipal public libraries in the city had been destroyed”
• Pakistan – Charting the Role of Pakistani libraries in a Post-COVID19 World – Global Village Space. “Crisis like these can be redefining moments and with close collaboration, technology, and digital transformation, public libraries in Pakistan can break free of their old mold and have an overhaul, which is long-due. It is a pity that very few public libraries have any online services and have remained closed, but that could change with collaboration between volunteers, NGOs and the government.”
• USA – Envisioning the New Model Library: Navigating through the pandemic and beyond – Hanging Together. “Our broad questions include:
  • Will the current environment of physical distancing and precautions persist in the post-pandemic era? • If so, will most of our services and programs continue to be offered in an online environment? • How will we – or can we? should we? – create experiences similar to the physical spaces in our libraries in our virtual library spaces?””

Local news by authority

• Argyll – Thousands of library books due back – Oban Times. “Live Argyll, which manages libraries and leisure facilities in the area, has said users can start returning books at town libraries from the week beginning Monday August 24 at designated times”
• Bedford – Bedford libraries’ reopening date still under review – Bedford Independent. “A Borough Council spokesperson said, “With the infection rate locally having been higher than in other places, Bedford Borough Council took the decision that libraries would remain closed for the time being.”
• Calderdale – Safely reopening Central Library – News Centre. “Calderdale Council is pleased to be able to offer access to selected services at Halifax Central Library and Archives from Tuesday 11 August 2020.”
• Cheshire West and Chester – Wharton Library might not reopen during the coronavirus pandemic – Winsford and Middlewich Guardian. “”Reopening the remaining libraries in Hoole, Malpas, Tarporley, Tarvin, Tattenhall, Wharton and the mobile libraries has raised some operational challenges. “We are exploring whether an alternative service, such as order and collect, can be offered safely for customers of these sites.”
  • Sandiway Library reopens from lockdown with reduced opening hours – Northwich Guardian.
• Cumbria – Cumbria’s main libraries to reopen today – News and Star. “It’s been more than 140 days since libraries across the county closed …”
• Devon – Wild film fun for Devon’s Summer Reading Challenge 2020 – North Devon Gazette. “Entertainingly Different aka performer Rob Pudner and Great Torrington-based Really Wild Learning’s Kim Insull have teamed up to create two shorts films called Entertainingly Wild.”
• Dorset – Verwood Library reopens its doors – Salisbury Journal. “The opening of the library by Dorset Council, along with others in Shaftesbury and Swanage follows the successful reopening of nine libraries, in Blandford, Bridport, Dorchester, Ferndown, Gillingham, Sherborne, Wareham, Weymouth and Wimborne.”
• East Riding of Yorkshire – East Riding Libraries Re-Open – Yorkshire Coast Radio. “Those wishing to browse books will be allocated a limited time in the library, and may have to queue based on the number of customers in the building, which will vary from site to site based on size. “
• Gateshead – Libraries and gyms in Gateshead are set to re-open over the coming weeks – Chronicle Live.
• Gloucestershire – Gloucestershire libraries reopen – Punchline. “During the past few weeks more than 25 libraries have been offering a collection service that enables customers to request books, DVDs and other available materials they would like to borrow. From this week, four libraries will reopen with strict social distancing measures in place.”
• Hampshire – Consultation on cuts to library hours in Hampshire – Salisbury Journal. “This comes after Hampshire County Council agreed to close eight of its 48 libraries and reduce the opening hours of the remaining ones.” … ““They are looking to make library hours more uniform across the county.”
  • Council’s push for volunteers amid cuts at local libraries – Advertiser and Times. ““We’re also very open to ideas from local groups or organisations who might wish to offer volunteer support to expand on those staffed opening hours to keep their library open to the public longer on some days.””
• Lancashire – More libraries to reopen in Lancashire – The Visitor. “Fourteen more Lancashire libraries will be opened on Wednesday, August 19, but people will need to book an appointment before visiting”
• Liverpool – More libraries reopen in Liverpool – The Guide. “After the successful reopening of Central Library on 13 July, three further libraries will be opening their doors to the public once again …”
• Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire library driver now delivers PPE around county – Oxford Mail. “I make safe deliveries by first ringing the door, placing the items by the doorstep before moving at least two metres further away to let the person know their goods are delivered. Other steps I have to keep safe are gloves, a mask and sanitising spray which I use for the van.”
• Pembrokeshire – Public computer access to resume at selected libraries – Western Telegraph. “Limited computer access will be available to customers at libraries in Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock and Tenby.”
• Portsmouth – Annual Short Story Competition Now Open for Entries – About My Area. “This year’s theme is ‘Reunion’, which might lead writers to take inspiration from the experience of social distancing during the pandemic, but writers can interpret the theme in any way they wish. Young adults and adults over 16 are invited to share their stories for a chance to win £500 and have their short story published on the Libraries and Archive website and in a future compilation of winning and shortlisted entries.”
• Staffordshire – Families urged to get creative with libraries over summer – Tamworth Informed. “There are two programmes, ‘Creative Explorers’ for children & young people and ‘Createspace’ for adults.”
• Stirling – Stirling libraries now offer more items for collection as part of reopening – Brig News. Click and collect includes dog poop bags, caddy liners and hearing aid batteries.
• Surrey – More libraries to reopen – Surrey County Council. “Further library services will restart in Surrey from Monday 17 August. A total of 40 libraries in Surrey will be operational from that date, offering revised services. Several libraries will newly open their doors to the public to browse, borrow and return books, whilst operating strict safety and social distancing measures. In all, 26 libraries will be open for public access.”
• Swindon – More Swindon libraries reopen after coronavirus lockdown – Swindon Advertiser. “Central Swindon North Parish Council has started a click and collect service for its Moredon and Rodbourne Cheney Library.”. Council libraries reopened: “First the Central Library operated with a new click-and-collect system. In its first week it had more than 1,000 reservations. Then the remaining four libraries – North Swindon, Parks, Highworth and West Swindon – followed suit with the same system.”
• Vale of Glamorgan – Vale of Glamorgan library buildings reopen on a controlled basis – Penarth Times. “Now residents will be able to access further facilities as the use of PCs and the physical browsing of books is permitted again.”
• Warwickshire – Kenilworth Library to re-open on Monday – Kenilworth Weekly News. 10 libraries currently open.
• Wirral – Wirral libraries launch order and collect service – Wirral Globe. Click and collect.
• Wrexham – Wrexham Library Service: Access 1,000 new comic titles – Leader Live. “We are delighted to announce that from August, there will be 1,000 additional comic titles from across the globe for you to select from your RBdigital library.”