Ian Anstice

Editorial

One of the many fascinating things about public libraries is that they’re so very diverse. In the UK, and in many other parts of the world, each library service (or the council or other body that controls it) is effectively its own kingdom, with its own rules and norms. This is shown by variation in even neighbouring services: requirements to join (normally one of three, with no evidence of a connection between it and theft rates – none, one, two including proof of address), fines (from, increasingly, none, to sky’s the limit), number of loans (anything from normally 6 or 8 to limitless), stock (size and composition), how to loan (self-service or staffed), size of library per thousand population, staffing (staffless, unpaid, paid but none professionally qualified, etc). Really, there’s no end to it. Moreover, each individual library within a service often has its own character, depending on neighbourhood, building and even the personalities of those working there. And, of course, in England even more diverse. After all, England quite literally has no standards when it comes to libraries. Which means that the individual library offer can appear pretty darn random at times.

So it’s not surprising that an organisation like GLL/Better has wide variations, even in one week of news. Recent statistics and surveys reported by GLL shows its libraries to have some of the highest usage in England along with high satisfaction rates. On the other hand, the situation in Dudley – which it runs on behalf of the council there – is looking pretty dire. The council is looking to cut it so much that only 2 or 3 of the current 13 libraries may still be open in three years. It’s worthwhile pointing out that this has nothing to do with GLL – it’s the council that decides these things – but still it’s interesting how different things can be even within services run by the same organisation. And it’s a reminder that diversity represents a rainbow, from the brightest to the darkest colours.

Changes by local authority

• Bexley – New libraries The Nest (replaces The Thamesmead closed ten years ago) and The Sidcup Storyteller (library, cafe, working space, cinema).
• Dudley – Proposed £380k per year cut 2024/5 followed by £1.08m cut in 2025/6
• Slough – Opening hours change with at least one library open each Saturday, 4 libraries “predominantly” self-service.
• Wandsworth – Expanded and refurbished Northcote Library nearing completion.

Ideas

• Linking book collections to local charities – Suffolk.
• Food growing kits – Blaenau Gwent.

National news

• Better Operated Libraries Are Some Of The Best Used In The UK – Better. High customer satisfaction and usage.
• Farewell Ridgmount Street, hello British Library – CILIP. “Our needs have changed and, accelerated by the pandemic, CILIP was occupying less than 15% of its total floorspace and was landlord to 9 tenant organisations. Much of our work is now online, with staff working remotely and positive feedback from members about our new-found decentralised role.”
• Helsinki’s Oodi puts Scotland’s fusty libraries to shame – The Times. Behind paywall.
• Libraries and archives: engaging communities with local heritage – Libraries Connected / Eventbrite. Thursday 27 April 2pm, online. “This forthcoming webinar will take an in-depth look at innovative digital local history and community projects that inspire, connect communities and provoke debate.”

International news

• Australia – Toy libraries becoming more popular as parents borrow in bid to beat cost-of-living pressures – ABC News. “There are more than 380 registered toy libraries across the country, with an estimated 130,000 members”
• Canada – Okanagan Regional Library receives $1.6 million from province – Penticton Western News. “The funds are part of $45 million the province has earmarked for libraries throughout B.C., funding which was announced March 24. All 71 B.C. public libraries, and organizations that help libraries deliver their services, will receive one-time grants in addition to their annual operating funding. This aims to give libraries flexibility to address local priorities including longer hours, bigger digital collections and better access to literacy and lifelong learning opportunities.”
• Global – The technology career ladder – Lorcan Dempsey. “Library leaders should be drawn from across the organization. Any idea that technology leaders are overly specialised or too distant from general library work is outmoded and counter-productive.” Academic library focused but some relevant points.
  • Public libraries are critical social infrastructure – Press Reader. “Contemporary libraries are the lifeline for communities in times of crisis. But as sociologist Eric Klinenberg noted in the New York Times, libraries are criticized and abandoned at the exact moment when they are most needed because “the founding principle of the public library — that all people deserve free, open access to our shared culture and heritage — is out of sync with the market logic that dominates our world. It’s also because so few influential people understand the expansive role that libraries play in modern communities.”

• Ireland – Counter-protesters oppose ant-LGBT groups protesting against LGBT books in a Dublin library – Morning Star. “Two opposing groups of around 30 people each gathered outside Swords Library in Dublin.” Library staff threatened with legal action, and the identity of stock-buying librarians sought. see also Libraries issued with instructions for securing buildings as protesters try to remove LGTBQ+ books for young people – Irish Times.

Local news by authority

• Aberdeen – A third of Aberdeen libraries closed to save its city council £280,000 – Morning Star.
• ‘Out of touch’: Council’s budget process slammed as questions raised over delayed assessments – The Gaudie. “Impact assessments for Woodside and Kaimhill libraries were not completed until three weeks after Council voted to cut funding, documents indicate”
• Bexley – The Nest Community Building and new Thamesmead Library are now open – Bexley Council. “The impressive new building is the second new library to open in the borough in recent months. The new Sidcup Storyteller opened in December last year. Along with the usual library services, including free wifi and meeting rooms, the new library will offer a regular programme of events and activities. It is part of a Community Building that is already home to community groups and local organisations as well as a hub for Peabody’s communities team, which will be working with the Council to support local people.”
• Blaenau Gwent – Libraries in Blaenau Gwent handing out home-growing kits – South Wales Argus. “Each veg library includes ‘pick and mix’ pots filled with different seeds, and envelopes that families can fill with the seeds of their choice to take home. “The idea is for people to have a go at growing some veg at home, in response to the recent food shortages and spiralling food prices,””
• Coventry – Waterstones Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho to visit Jubilee Crescent Library as part of epic ‘Library Marathon’ campaign – Coventry Council.
• Devon – Much-loved Ashburton Library moves to newly-refurbished space – Devon Live. “The much-loved community space is moving to a new upstairs location at its existing location at 4 Lawrence Lane. The move makes way for the Ashburton Hub to invite community banks to use the lower floor, and will give a dedicated upstairs space to the town’s library.”
  • Devon / Torbay – New Library based Print and Collect service means you don’t have to stop the presses – North Devon Gazette. “Customers can take their laptops or phones to their local library and print their documents using the new Wi-Fi printing service. They can even print from home or on the go by logging in, sending to print and collecting from the library the same or next day.”

• Dudley – Waterstones Children’s Laureate to visit Stourbridge Library – Stourbridge News. “Coelho is set to visit and join a library in every local authority in the UK”
  • Fears raised about the future of Dudley’s libraries – Dudley News. “Dudley Council has proposed nearly £1.5 million in savings on library services over the next few years.” … opposition says ““With the additional £1 million paid to GLL in 2021, the library contract has cost the council £4,230,000 since 2017, but it has not achieved the projected savings and the number of library users have declined significantly due to GLL’s mismanagement.””
• Greenwich – Record numbers of visitors to South London libraries ranked busiest in the UK – London News Online. “Residents are making the most of the 12 libraries in Greenwich, the borough ranking as the location with the most visits compared to its population.  Woolwich Centre Library also stood out nationally by being the second busiest library in the UK. 547,440 people walked through its doors between 2020 and 2021.”
• Gwynedd – Gwynedd Libraries Service announces vision for next five years – In Your Area. VR Hubs plus “Development of the Library of Things – People can borrow useful things for their homes and more, for example, tools, electrical items and toys. It saves money and is less harmful to the environment than buying new and using only once. The library, known as Petha, will be available at the Dyffryn Ogwen, Penygroes and Blaenau Ffestiniog Libraries. Improving Penygroes Library – Thanks to the grant from the Welsh Government Transformation Capital Grant Scheme, the space at Penygroes
  Library will be improved and improvements at the Dyffryn Ogwen library will also include a new wellbeing garden.”
• Hertfordshire – Cuffley Community Library Open Day – Hertfordshire Council. First year anniversary of volunteers. “We are proud to celebrate our achievements over the past year and have a special day planned that will appeal to all our visitors”
• Kent – 200 protest to save Folkestone Library – Socialist Party. “Local activists spread the word for a protest and within 24 hours of the call, a demonstration of around 120 people gathered outside the library demanding that it must be kept open. Anger against the threatened closure has spread quickly, shown by the support for the ‘Save Folkestone Library’ Facebook page.” … “We decided that the pressure must be maintained and so we called another demonstration and rally. Over 200 people, mums and children, young and old, marched …”
• Lancashire – Lancashire Libraries are supporting voters to be election ready – Lancashire Council. “Lancashire Libraries will be offering trained staff to help people navigate the voting application process. Voters who require support when registering to vote can visit their local library. Staff will be available to help people access the website and apply. Support is also being offered by libraries across Lancashire to help voters complete their Voter Authority Certificate application. An appointment may be required in advance.”
• Liverpool – Liverpool libraries where children discovered their love of books – Liverpool Echo. Old photographs of people using libraries 1960s to 1980s.

• Manchester – Manchester book swap vending machine a hit with readers – BBC. “A vending machine allowing people to swap books for free is proving popular with readers. More than 600 books have been swapped so far in the new scheme in Manchester’s Corn Exchange”
• Middlesbrough – Tech drive brings wi-fi printing to Middlesbrough Libraries – Middlesbrough Council. “made possible thanks to a £270,000 funding boost from the first round of the Library Improvement Fund.”
• Nottinghamshire – Introducing your new and improved Harworth and Bircotes Library – Inspire Culture. Library Improvement Fund: “Nottinghamshire County Council, partnering with Inspire were awarded £170,000 to create community hubs in Nottinghamshire, transforming the buildings into flexible welcoming spaces for communities to use and enjoy.”
• Sandwell – Update on Sandwell library charges and warm spaces – Sandwell Council.
• Slough – Slough libraries see new opening times – Slough and South Bucks Observer. “Under the new schedule, a minimum of one library will be open every Saturday. In February Slough Borough Council agree to make changes to the schedule to make savings and streamline the service offered. Since April 1, The Curve, Langley, Britwell and Cippenham are predominantly running as self-service. Library hours have also been amended, while the publications budget of £90,000 has been maintained.”

• Stockton on Tees – The Coronation of his Majesty King Charles III: Here’s how you can celebrate in Stockton-on-Tees – Stockton on Tees Council. Talks, craft, maps, photographs.
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries and St Elizabeth Hospice launch Compassionate Communities book collection – Suffolk Libraries. ” The books cover a range of subjects related to bereavement and compassion and are appropriate for a range of ages with some devoted to helping children and young people understand grief and loss.”
  • Wild Reads 2023 collection launches – Suffolk Libraries. “a new book collection and a five-month programme of themed events and activities created by Suffolk Libraries and Suffolk Wildlife Trust.”
• Tameside – Story Makers – Sunny and Rainy Days – Tameside Council. “The project, which was made possible by funding from Tameside Community Safety Partnership, was organised by Tameside Libraries.”
• Wandsworth – New look bigger and better Northcote Library opening soon – Wandsworth Council. “The existing 1960s-era Northcote library is being replaced with a larger and better equipped public library and community centre offering a wider range of services. Construction work is now virtually complete on its modern three storey replacement that will offer a dedicated and improved children’s section, enlarged study accommodation, self-serve kiosks for book loans, upgraded computer and digital learning areas, an events space and restroom facilities. The new Northcote library will provide 848 square metres of usable floor space compared with the existing library’s 728 sqm. It will also incorporate eco-friendly energy measures including solar panels – reducing its carbon footprint and making the new building more sustainable”
• Wokingham – Author of children’s series The Queen’s Hat to visit borough libraries – Wokingham Today.

Editorial

The Government has given out £4.9 million to English public libraries in a competitive bidding process. This is to be welcomed but it’s worth pointing out that (a) this is likely to be much less than overall funding cuts to libraries this year and (b) is for stuff that library services can’t now afford normally but in any well-funded service would have been able to. Plus also it’s sometimes for additional stuff when the core service is being cut. As Libraries Hacked points out it’s a bit like “watching a house burning down and asking for money to install a bouncy castle in the garden.”. This point is demonstrated this week by Kent where the deputy council leader says that the council cannot afford to reopen Folkestone Library (where apparently 50% of the children are in poverty) because “KCC has to be realistic that in the current challenging financial climate, any spend has to be prioritised”.

I may have mentioned last week that several newspapers had reported a story that Devon was censoring stock for what can only be described “woke” reasons. I understand from contacts in Devon that this is nonsense and that “sadly some newspapers have recently inaccurately reported” their stock management policy. and that “There is not, and never has been, a decision to “remove unedited copies of certain Enid Blyton books from the shelves” and that they do not “operate a trigger warning system”. So, heaven knows what the Telegraph, Mail and Express think they were reporting on. If I didn’t know that they were all unbiased high-quality resources, I’d say it was almost as if they’re trying to stir up controversy or something. And of course this places libraries in a difficult position. They can either feed the trolls by pointing out the mis-reporting or keep quiet and leave it unchecked. And that way can lead to the ridiculous position we see in the USA where some politicians are so sure of how terrible public libraries are that they’re now advocating churches getting the funding instead.

Finally, I wish to mark the farewell of Diana Edmonds from GLL libraries. Being overall for no less than five library services and over 100 libraries, she was de facto the most senior public librarian in the country. Although, some of us may harbour some doubts about the placing of library services under leisure trusts, this did not prove detrimental to the ones she led (the “gymbraries” some of you may know were differently managed) and she used her position, where she could, to protect libraries and the role of professional librarians. I’m glad to say that she will staying in the public library sector.

Changes by local authority

• Kent – Folkestone Library likely to be closed permanently due to flood damage
• Liverpool – Spellow Library becomes co-location with business service, training, meeting rooms, council services and art gallery.

National news

• Arts, culture and libraries 2023 – Local Government Association. Peer challenges. “The LGA’s important partnership with Arts Council England enables us to provide critical support to our member councils by developing the knowledge and skills of both councillors and officers to champion cultural activity in their local areas during a period of rebuilding, where leadership is needed most.”
• Culture boost of £12.8m for West Midlands – BBC. “More than £1m from the LIF will be shared between libraries in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, Shropshire and Walsall.”
• DCMS announces further £4.9m for 27 library services – BookSeller.
• Edmonds steps down as GLL national libraries director – Bookseller. “Diana Edmonds MBE is stepping down from her role as national libraries director at the social enterprise Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), effective 5th April 2023 … Rebecca Gediking will step in as interim head of libraries to oversee the management and direction of more than 100 libraries in Bromley, Dudley, Lincolnshire, Wandsworth, Wales and the Royal Borough of Greenwich.”
• Enid Blyton’s racism doesn’t deserve to be in libraries. Read Terry Pratchett instead – Big Issue. “He’s not always perfect but, unlike Enid Blyton, he evolved. A mid-90s Discworld novel, Jingo, has its heart in the right place but is guilty of some fairly broad stereotypes about an Arab-like culture. You can see Pratchett pushing at the edges of the idea, but still falling into some of the traps he set his own characters. But Sir Terry’s mind never sat in one place. He soaked the world up as he moved through it, and as the world around him changed, so did he. At the heart of his work was always the idea that people were complicated. That they were never one thing”

• Government announces almost £60m in cultural funding for regions outside London – Independent. “They will share a pot of £58.8 million as part of what the Government has billed as plans to “make sure everyone, no matter where they live, can access the UK’s world-renowned culture”.”
• Green Libraries Manifesto– working together for people and planet – CILIP. “As libraries we occupy a place at the heart of the communities we serve. Through this manifesto, we want to come together towards a shared vision: to lead by example through our own environmental actions and use our power and reach to inform and inspire people to take positive action and build resilience in the diverse communities we serve. We recognise the diversity of our sector which is why this is an inclusive initiative for all libraries to help them make the changes they can, with the resources they have.”
• Libraries Connected welcomes £4.9m Libraries Improvement Fund investment – Libraries Connected. “While competitive funds can make a huge difference for recipients, without a more secure long term financial settlement many councils will have no option but to consider making cuts to frontline public services, including libraries. We need Government to take decisive action now to avoid a crisis in our libraries over the coming years.”
• Manchester libraries and Salford and Bury museums to get boost to funding – Manchester Evening News. “Under the government’s Libraries and Improvement Fund, Manchester Libraries will receive £198,872, and Oldham Council Libraries £151,520.”
• Over 70 cultural venues, museums and libraries supported with £60 million boost – Gov.uk. “£135,000 to Leicester Libraries. £124,355 to Nottingham City Council Library Service. £50,586 to Inspire Libraries (Nottinghamshire), £337,500 to Essex Libraries. £219,000 to Suffolk Libraries, £255,554 to Kingston Libraries, £231,500 to Brent Libraries, £150,000 to Croydon Libraries, £125,000 to Barnet Libraries, 73,354 to Merton Libraries, £266,066 to North Tyneside Libraries, £225,000 to Darlington Libraries, £200,000 to Hartlepool library service, £50,000 to Stockton Library Service, £275,960 to St Helens Council Library Service, £198,872 to Manchester Libraries, £260,000 to Hertfordshire Library Service, £150,031 to Hampshire Libraries, £102,000 to Portsmouth Libraries, £75,000 to Surrey Libraries, £151,520 to Oldham Council Libraries, £300,000 to Stoke on Trent Libraries, £265,000 to Staffordshire Libraries, £241,950 to Shropshire Libraries, £202,349 to Walsall Libraries, £50,000 to Barnsley Libraries”
• Uncensored Enid Blyton books with ‘outdated’ language are ‘being stashed in off-limits spaces by librarians’ – Mail. Rightwing sensationalist article aims at whipping up hatred of public library.

International news

• Global – Now available: IFLA report on the 2021 Safer Internet Day survey – IFLA. Survey on “What would help librarians create and maintain a safer online world for children and young people?”
• The fight for libraries, ‘the heart’ of democratic freedom – CBC. “Libraries have become ‘battlegrounds for other political motivations,’ says Oxford’s Richard Ovenden. “Professional introverts, walled off behind books. Stern-faced floor monitors shushing visitors. These are the tired stereotypes of his profession which U.K. librarian Richard Ovenden is determined to counter. “Anybody who’s worked in libraries knows this has almost certainly never been true, and it’s certainly not true today. The idea that we are engaged in serious matters for the sake of society needs to be shouted out.””
• New Zealand – A day in the life of a children’s librarian – The Spin Off. The varied life includes a rhymetime and a homeless person.

• USA – American Library Association reports record number of demands to censor library books and materials in 2022 – ALA. “1,269 demands to censor library books and resources in 2022, the highest number of attempted book bans since ALA began compiling data about censorship in libraries more than 20 years ago. “. Nearly double 2021. Most in school libraries, 41% in public. Most challenges are now for multiple titles so number of books challenged actually far more.
  • Library director fired for trying to relocate book reading – Wear News. “The library director, Allan Morales, suggested the event be moved to a large church due to interest. Some, including Cameron, viewed this as retaliation for the book’s biblical principles. However, emails between Morales and the publisher – obtained by The Tennessean – show that the library director showed genuine concern about the library building’s ability to handle such an event.”
  • Public Knowledge Disappointed in Decision Restricting Ability of Libraries To Lend Books – Public Knowledge. “Under this “Controlled Digital Lending” (CDL) system, only one patron can access a copy of a book at a time – just like with lending physical books. The Internet Archive argued that any additional copies made during this process should be “fair use” under copyright law.” see also Book Publishers Won’t Stop Until Libraries Are Dead – TechDirt. “We’ll get to some of the details in a moment, but we’ve joked in the past that if libraries were new today there’s no way that book publishers would let them exist. In some ways they’re a legacy holdover from before publishers had that much power. The attack on controlled digital lending (CDL) more or less proves this.”

Local news by authority

• Aberdeen – ‘Libraries are about people’: Protest held outside council headquarters in final push to save Aberdeen facilities – Press and Journal. Six libraries about to close. “More than 100 people gathered outside the council headquarters to make their voices heard as part of their ongoing efforts to save six of the city’s libraries”
• Barnsley – Barnsley Libraries awarded Arts Council England funding to give our community libraries a ‘digital boost’ – Barnsley Council. £50,000: “Increasing self-service options in our community libraries. Improving digital provision, making it easier for you to access e-readers, laptops, charging units and digital screens when you need them. Creating more maker-boxes, helping us to deliver more makerspace activities for young people across our borough.”
• Bradford – Warm spaces to stay open in Bradford district after proving popular – Yahoo News. “In February alone the warm spaces in council libraries were used by more than 8,000 people, a quarter of those pensioners. Now, due to the popularity, many of the venues are set to be kept open as ‘welcoming spaces’ using money from the Department for Work and Pension’s Household Support Fund”
• Bury – Shopping plaza to be razed for new leisure centre, pools, cafe and library in Radcliffe town centre – Manchester World. “A large area of Radcliffe town centre is set to be demolished to make way for a new civic hub building containing a swimming pools, a leisure centre, café and library. A planning application for the long awaited plans for the partial redevelopment of the town centre was published by Bury Council on Friday.” … ” Much of the money for the development has come from the award of £20m to the project from the Levelling Up fund in early 2022. “
• Camden – Swiss Cottage Library – Low carbon retrofit using public sector decarbonisation scheme – DCMS Libraries. “To coincide with CILIP’s Green Libraries Conference on 24 March 2023, we are sharing this case study” … “With the inception of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) it was an ideal time for the council to deliver improvements” … “he project is predicted to make significant savings to the council’s running costs at more than £31,000 a year whilst also delivering annual carbon savings of 138 tonnes of CO2e.”
• Dudley – Two Dudley libraries to close temporarily for revamp works – Stourbridge News. “Brierley Hill Library is to undergo a major revamp as part of the town’s multi-million-pound regeneration and will be closed for around three months. Meanwhile, Lye Library is to close for a week while essential maintenance work is carried out. Layout changes and redecoration will take place at Brierley Hill Library, which will be given a new children’s play area where little ones can play and lear”
• Essex – Basildon gets £4.4m from government for creative and digital sectors – BBC. “Colchester Library will also receive £337,500 to create an interactive learning and play space for children.”
• Harrow – Windsor Castle comes to Harrow libraries with children’s workshops – Harrow Online. ACE funds the Royal Collection Trust to do visits to libraries to talk about castles.
• Hertfordshire – Hoddesdon and Watford Central Libraries to benefit from Arts Council funding – Hertfordshire Council. “Transform sections of both libraries into bright, contemporary spaces that are welcoming to all. The installation of a ‘CreatorSpace’ in the lower ground floor at Hoddesdon. The transformation of the Lecture Hall at Watford Central Library into a modern, tech-enabled meeting and performance space”
• Kent – Folkestone residents protest against closure of town library – Kent Online. “Dozens of campaigners” protest about permanent closure of library due to flood damage. ” it was announced the facility is unlikely to ever reopen due to the scale of the repairs needed. Kent County Council (KCC) deputy leader Cllr Peter Oakford (Con) says the council is unable to commit the £1.8 million budget required to carry out the work. “The amount of work is more significant than KCC had anticipated and KCC has to be realistic that in the current challenging financial climate, any spend has to be prioritised,” he added.”
• Inverclyde – Inverclyde Libraries still offering free digital skills sessions – Greenock Telegraph.

• Leicester – New digital suite created at iconic Leicester library – Leicester Council. “isitors to the Grade II listed St Barnabas Library, on French Road, can now make, edit and share their own video content, thanks to new cutting-edge facilities that have been created as part of an £85,000 project. Twelve new PCs have also been provided for library members to use, along with a new performance area, projector and viewing screen. New bi-fold doors will allow the area to be separated off or opened up to the wider library for large performances” … ” The project has been made possible thanks to a £65,000 funding award from Arts Council England’s Libraries Improvement Fund, with Leicester City Council providing an additional £20,000 of funding.”
• Liverpool – New chapter for library of the future – Liverpool Express. “Previously Spellow Library, situated in the heart of Walton in North Liverpool, was open just three days a week and typical for a 1960s building had poor accessibility, no toilets and limited services. Now following a radical, community-led makeover – the renamed Spellow Hub will be the first facility of its kind in the north of England to offer a complete “education to employment” service for people of all abilities.”
• North Ayrshire – Irvine mother and daughter star in promo for North Ayrshire libraries – Irvine Times. “Jen and her two-year-old daughter are at the forefront of the ‘Every Child A Library Member’ initiative which promotes the area’s library services and urges parents to sign their children up for a free membership. Showcasing the libraries’ extensive physical and audio book collections and their BookBug events for toddlers, the videos will be shared via social media and the NHS Health Visitor app over the next few months.”
• North Northamptonshire – Kettering’s £4.5m Cornerstone art gallery and library project needs community ‘support and understanding’, says councillor explaining extension leaks – Northamptonshire Telegraph. ““North Northamptonshire [Council] are now working to rectify the issues, which include long-standing defects with the library roof that have further deteriorated, impacting the new extension. “The issues with the rapidly deteriorating library roof have impacted the new build part of the project as water is travelling through the roof space from one building to the other. A decision has now been taken to ensure the library building is watertight before we open Cornerstone”
• Nottinghamshire – Service Disruptions – Inspire Culture. Gotham Library closed due to fire.
• Shropshire – Six Shropshire Council libraries to share in £236,000 Arts Council England funding – Shropshire Council. “It will be used to purchase 1:1 interview pods with supporting technology, enabling private consultations with the public, both face to face or online, for example by offering Shropshire Local customers privacy when discussing their individual needs. It will also fund new mobile shelving to create flexible space to accommodate health and wellbeing sessions offered through social prescribing and creative health models.”
• Staffordshire – Burton Library closed over ceiling safety concerns – BBC. “A new ceiling is due to be installed later this year as part of a planned renovation of the site. The council said it was working on providing an alternative service as soon as possible.”
• Stoke on Trent – Stoke-on-Trent Libraries Secure £300,000 funding from Libraries Improvement Fund – Stoke on Trent Council. “The first project that will benefit from this funding, includes the installation of self-release printing on four library sites plus WiFi printing in all six libraries. A second project is also planned, which will modernise Stoke and Longton libraries, making them flexible community spaces for various groups and customers.”
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries officially launches Menopause & Me – Suffolk Libraries. “programme is being run with funding from the Department of Health and Social Care. It aims to help people who are experiencing the menopause and perimenopause, with a focus on empowering local employers to provide as much support as possible for their staff. Suffolk Libraries will be working with Suffolk Mind and other partners on the project.”
• Suffolk: Museums and libraries receive £3m for improvements – East Anglian Daily Times. ” £219,000 from a separate fund to pay for the creation of an online tool providing tailored recommendations for people looking to find out more about local activities.”
• Surrey – Surrey Libraries receive £75k funding – Surrey News. Flexible shelving. “The recent funding of £75k from the Arts Council Cultural Investment Fund will help libraries to continue to deliver their “Dynamic Spaces” project in eight libraries. The first part of this project was completed in 2022 with the provision of flexible shelving in ten libraries, which has meant that libraries can move furniture around to reconfigure spaces to accommodate far more events and services, and for many more of our residents.”
• Wirral – Extended opening hours to return to Wirral libraries – Wirral Globe. Trial: “The four central libraries at Bebington, Birkenhead, Wallasey and West Kirby will be open until 7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Monday, April 3. Six community libraries will also have extended hours to include opening on four weekdays, plus every Saturday morning. This improved offer provides an additional 91 hours per week across the library service and improve residents’ access to books, technology, study space and all other services provided at the local library”

Editorial

Like many, I have been caught up in the debate about the neutrality of the BBC. Like public libraries that august institution has a duty to neutrality and, like us, comes under pressure from time to time to be less than evenly balanced. And if the BBC sometimes finds this difficult then it’s potentially even harder for something like libraries, which are after all part of a service led by councillors, who are almost all of one political party or another. Ultimately, there’s little that can be done in such instances other than to quote stock policies, national or local, and hope. Unless there’s a well-known television commentator who notices of course.

There’s the usual mixture of good and bad news stories, and continuing rumours of deep cuts coming in some councils, but a story that can always be relied on is the news about the Summer Reading Challenge. This is the biggest promotion that most public library services ever do and has tremendous traction with the public, many of whom remember doing it themselves either as children or as parents. And, of course, the theme this year is sports and games, which ties in well with the Women’s World Cup coming up soon. Hang on, that means we may have tweets from footballers …

Changes by local authority

• Cumbria – Threatened libraries to stay open apart from Peter Street Library

Ideas

• Easter Egg donations for charity – Sandwell
• Public vote on which events to put on – Cambridgeshire.

National news

• Author Joanne Harris calls for more investment in libraries and the arts – Chester Standard. “Ms Harris, author of Chocolat, spoke out after receiving an OBE for services to literature from the Prince of Wales at a Windsor Castle investiture on Tuesday. After the ceremony, she praised William and the Queen Consort for championing causes that promote literacy in the UK, but called on the Government to do more.”
• LibraryOn Grants programme application guidance – LibraryOn.
• A love letter to local libraries – The Know. “while visits have increased by 68%, spending on UK libraries has fallen by 17%. This waning investment comes at a time when libraries are more crucial to our communities than ever before. There are very few places left where people can go to access information, meet others and keep warm – without needing to spend anything.”
• Majority of English councils plan more cuts at same time as maximum tax rises – Guardian. “At least 12 councils are on the edge of “effective bankruptcy”, the survey warns, as they struggle to meet their official obligation to balance their budget while trying to maintain legal minimum levels of core service provision, from adult social care to roads repair, libraries and homelessness.”
• Nooks take centre stage as libraries level up for the hybrid future – Specification Online. “We’ve really seen take-up of Nooks in libraries lift off, with 25 Nook installations in UK libraries and five new installations in the past month alone.”

• Open meeting on Sanderson inquiry into public libraries and Campaign AGM – Library Campaign / Eventbrite. “An open discussion on Baroness Sanderson’s inquiry into public libraries will be followed by the Library Campaign AGM” including guest speaker Isobel Hunter (Chief Executive, Libraries Connected)
  with LC’s analysis of the current library landscape. Saturday 25 March, 2 to 4pm. Unison HQ, London. Teams online option available if book online and say you’re planning to use Teams.
• The Reading Agency partners with Youth Sport Trust for Summer Reading Challenge 2023 – BookSeller. “The Reading Agency has revealed that this year’s Summer Reading Challenge will be “Ready, Set, Read!” The annual challenge encourages children to engage with books during the summer reading “dip”. According to the agency, it reached 723,184 children and families across the UK in 2022, with 608,015 children taking part through their local library service. This year, the agency – in partnership with the Youth Sport Trust – has the dual aim to keep children’s minds and bodies active over the summer break.”
• Should Public Libraries Double Down on Print Book Collections? – Publishers Weekly / Tim Coates. “The declines are serious and suggest that the library’s reputation as a vital community resource is in peril. How serious? I fear these trends could lead to the disintegration of U.S. public libraries within a generation if allowed to continue. And without strategic changes visible to the public, I believe they will continue. Take the U.K. as a cautionary tale … I believe that if just 6% of the money currently in the staff and management budget was spent instead on books, we would begin to reverse the decline in library usage.”. See this page for more figures from Tim.

International news

• Singapore – Public libraries in S’pore will keep original Roald Dahl books for now instead of using revised versions – Mothership. “The general principles of the [national government] guidelines state that publications should “not undermine the national interest, public security or public confidence in the law and its enforcement in Singapore.” Content related to race and religion should also “not denigrate, offend the sensitivities of, or incite intolerance or misunderstanding” among” the main racial and religious groups in Singapore.
• USA – Man Who Painted ‘Groomer’ on Libraries Caught With Child Pornography, Police Say – Vice. “Charles Sutherland was formerly a librarian at Northview Elementary in Bowie, Maryland. In June 2022, police arrested Sutherland for vandalizing two libraries in Maryland—one in New Carrollton, and another in Greenbelt—by painting the word “groomer” across the entrances, and was charged with multiple counts of hate crimes at the time. “

Local news by authority

• Aberdeen – Save our Cornhill Library – Change.org. “This petition asks Aberdeen City Council to reverse their decision to close Cornhill Library. Please share this petition widely as we try to save this vital community resource.”
• Letter to Aberdeen Council – Sean McNamara / CILIPS. “Aberdeen City already has one of the lowest numbers of branches per population (1.62 per 20,000) and well below the average of 2.04 per 20,000. These changes could leave Aberdeen as having the lowest number of library branches per population in Scotland”

• Cambridgeshire – Have your say in arts events at Cambridgeshire libraries in 2023 – Fenland Citizen. “A selection of performances will be published online and in libraries from until March 22 for residents to make their choices. “
• Camden – 20 reasons why Library of Things is great – Camdenist. “As their latest branch opens in Kilburn Library, we’ve put together 20 reasons why you should give these rapidly expanding champions of the circular economy a whirl…”
• Cardiff – Do We Still Need Libraries? In Our Modern World, The Answer Is Yes  – Voice Wales. “At the heart of a library, are the librarians, drawing together all the aforementioned elements into a holistic service that truly caters for all.  Machines can monitor loans, but they tell nothing about how an exhausted mum found a reason to leave the house, how a child learned to clap joyously at songs and nursery rhymes, how a widower became less alone, or how someone borrowed a book that changed their life.  Social connections do not come from data, and cannot be quantified by scanners.  We need librarians because libraries are for human beings in the pursuit of human activities.  “
• Cheshire East – Opinion: “I’m sad the council will be reducing library opening hours” – Northwich Guardian.
• Cumbria – Cumbria Libraries remind communities that they are ‘fine free’ – News and Star. “Cumbria Libraries have been ‘fine free’ for nearly two years meaning anyone returning overdue library books does not receive a fine.”
• Devon – Book sale to boost library charity’s coffers – Mid-Devon Advertiser. “The prices are as follows: £3 for hardbacks; £2 for paperbacks; £2 for children’s fiction books and finally £1 for children’s picture books. All proceeds will be re-invested into Libraries Unlimited”
• Dorset – Barclays Local bank at Weymouth Library and Learning Centre – Dorset Echo. “Barclays Local opened for customers at the Weymouth Library and Learning Centre on Great George Street on Monday, March 6 – just days after its main branch on St Mary Street closed. “
• Essex – The King and The Queen Consort visit Colchester Library – Essex Council. “We are delighted that The King and The Queen Consort were able to visit one of our libraries today and hear more about the fantastic work we are continuing to do through the Essex Year of Reading. “

• Glasgow – Woodside Library in Glasgow reveals opening date after £2.3m refurb – Glasgow Times. Upgrade includes “new, vibrant reading room with study areas, a private kitchen and updated computers. There will also be a range of new books in place.”
• Gwynedd – Gwynedd libraries where you can keep warm and meet people – North Wales Chronicle. “The Gwynedd Library Service Plan – Living Libraries 2023-2028 – was approved on Tuesday, March 7.” … “Reading was still at the the heart of the service offer, with around 60% of users visiting libraries to borrow a book.”
  • Loan books, keep warm, meet people and borrow a drill – Cambrian Times. “The county’s libraries now offered a range of services, with some even lending out items such as gardening equipment, DIY tools, games and toys.”
• Haringey – Residents get access to millions of books as Haringey completes The Libraries Consortium membership – Haringey Council. “Haringey residents can borrow and return items to and from 321 libraries in 23 local council areas across London and the South East from today (Monday 6 March) after the council’s libraries service completed its journey to membership of the Libraries Consortium.”

• Middlesbrough – Hublets bring latest digital tech to town’s libraries – Tees Business. “The Finnish-made high-tech devices are loanable tablets for use in the library using our new dedicated WiFi Network.” from Libraries Improvement Fund.
• Northern Ireland – Great events happening in libraries across Belfast – Northern Ireland World. “Libraries are great places to go to if you’re interested in escapism, housing thousands upon thousands of different stories that you can read and fall in love with.”
  • Appointments of Councillor Members to the Board of Libraries NI – Northern Ireland Communities.
• Perth and Kinross – Seven Perth and Kinross libraries saved from proposed closure – Daily Record. “It is understood libraries in Alyth, Auchterarder, Birnam, Comrie, North Inch and Pitlochry were all under threat as well as Coupar Angus which is currently temporarily closed.” … “Last week councillors committed £173,000 for the 2023/24 revenue budget to keep these libraries open but the council will look at the affordability and sustainability of its assets in the longer term.”
• Sandwell – Donate Easter eggs at libraries in Sandwell – Sandwell Council. “Sandwell Council is appealing for donations of Easter eggs for Santa’s Black Country Toy Appeal.”
• St Helens – Campaigner says ‘libraries are levellers’ as another is closed – Liverpool Echo. “St Helens Borough Council recently announced that Peter Street Library will be closed permanently from the end of March. The owners of the site have decided to hire the space out to another organisation.” …
• Staffordshire – People invited to celebrate British Science Week at Perton Library – Staffordshire Council. “Robot and coding workshops, forensics activities, geology, and even a real fire engine are amongst the activities in this year’s science fair.”
• Stockport – Stockport Libraries have helped over 5,000 people in Stockport with digital skills – Stockport Council.
• Suffolk – Newly refurbished children’s area unveiled at Brandon Library – Suffolk Libraries. “The refurbishment was funded by planner development funding and with the Friends of Brandon Library also kindly contributing £250 towards the improvements.”
  • Haverhill Library launches new photography competition to help create fund-raising calendar – Suffolk News.
  • Suffolk Libraries and Rock Paper Scissors get on their bike for Big Weekender – Suffolk Libraries. “The new art bike has been purchased after Rock Paper Scissors were awarded £11,000 from Suffolk County Council’s Public Mental Health Programme through its Children and Young people subgroup. “
  • Suffolk Libraries needs your views on proposed plans to extend Thurston Library – Suffolk libraries. “The extension would be funded using money from local housing developments which is available to make improvements to the infrastructure of public services through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The results of this survey will become part of the application bid into the CIL funding pot.”

• Worcestershire – Worcestershire Libraries Cost of Living fairs help over 800 residents – Worcestershire Council. “The events were a huge success, with 835 additional people visiting the libraries during the fairs, equating to a 32% increase in visitors compared to the average number of visitors in January and February. The events were attended by regular library customers and those new to libraries, demonstrating the wide appeal and importance of the information and advice available.”
• York – Dringhouses library soon to reopen after being closed because of cold – Yahoo News. “bosses decided to temporarily close the library in the middle of last month because average temperatures inside were only 10 degrees. Health and Safety Executive guidance states that the minimum temperature for working indoors in a library-type environment should be at least 16°C.”

Editorial

The recent controversy over the rewriting of Roald Dahl’s books to make them more politically correct, which may or may not have been just a publicity stunt, has got me thinking even more about where we should stand on censorship. And it is censorship, pure and simple. Look at the definition of the word if you’re not sure.

My views on this have changed and hardened recently. The thing is I like being politically correct and, as any reader will gather from my editorials, my views are left of centre. But I think we need to be firm on some things. If one starts changing words then it means that written words can be changed. The moral high ground is lost and it’s harder to work out what was actually said or meant. Freedom of speech is taken away from the dead. And, maybe, if we refuse to recognise this as a line in the sand, then there are others lines we may not notice until it is too late.

My first degree was in History, fascinating subject (let me know if you want a chat on Later Roman military formations) but part of the challenge is working out what actually happened. Far from being the preservers of ancient knowledge like many of us were taught in school, the Early Christians destroyed by some estimates over 95% of pagan writing and a surprising amount of what is left is just extracts in Christian texts of the time, often included solely in order to rebut them. That was a historic catastrophe, in at least two different ways. What I am saying is that the writings of authors need to be kept the same in order to accurately judge them. If they fall out of favour of the times then let them. Of course, as librarians our influence is highly limited (profit wins every time) but at the very least we should not welcome such changes. Or we will be judged in the future for it. That is, unless librarians are written out of history when it is politically correct to do so.

Changes by local authority

• Cheshire East – Opening hours cut
• Rotherham – Mowbray Gardens Library and Brinsworth Community Library have staffless opening hours.

National news

• I hate library phone boxes. By Katrina Robinson – The Oldie. “I’m a librarian – so people think I should love it when people put any old books in any old crate and label it ‘Library’. They think I’m blaspheming against mighty Thoth, the Egyptian god of reading, when I tell them how I feel. I feel the way any worth-her-salt GP would feel if she spotted a rusty first-aid box by the side of the road, with ‘Hospital’ emblazoned all over it – while real hospitals were closing or becoming semi-open ‘community hospitals’ staffed by unqualified volunteers.”

Although there have been library closures, an extensive network of libraries remains across England delivering services including digital to local residents. There has been no assessment made of the impact of library closures on trends in the level of digital exclusion. There are over 2,900 libraries across England, and while there have been closures, they continue to be a well used service, providing a trusted network of accessible locations with trained staff and volunteers, free wifi and public PCs, and assisted digital access to a wide range of digital services.

Based on a dataset of information on public libraries in England, published by Arts Council England, we estimated that around 230 static libraries have been permanently closed in the period 1 April 2010 to 31 December 2021 and have not been relocated or replaced.”

Paul Scully, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department of Science Innovation and Technology

• Improving the online presence of public libraries with a new grants programme – British Library / Living Knowledge. “The first stage of the LibraryOn digital grants programme will kick off on 1 March 2023. From this date we’ll be inviting library services in England to submit an Expression of Interest form outlining their initial ideas for a funded project.”
• Julia Donaldson ends James Patterson’s reign as UK libraries’ most borrowed author – Guardian. “Patterson had been the most borrowed author for 14 years in the Public Lending Right (PLR) data” … “All of the Top 10 most borrowed titles for the period were fiction, with crime and thriller titles dominating. Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club and its sequel The Man Who Died Twice were in at numbers one and two on the chart, and held the same positions on the most borrowed audiobooks chart.”

• Libraries Improvement Fund (LIF) Round 3 – Arts Council England. £10.5m. “This fund will enable library services across England to invest in a range of projects to upgrade buildings and technology so they are better placed to respond to the changing ways people are using them.”
• The old book shop going to auction with hundreds of books inside – Wales Online. Nothing to do with public libraries but oh my gosh the books …
• Radio 2 Book Club Library Staff Opportunity – BBC Radio 2. “We’re looking for librarians to join the Radio 2 Book Club panel, to help choose the books that will feature on the show.”
• Shortlist announced for Libraries Connected Awards 2023 – Libraries Connected. “The Awards have six categories which reflect the Universal Library Offers (ULOs) and Promises – the core services and programmes that modern library services provide.”
• A sociological exploration of the library – Glasgow Guardian. “Cicero once said: “If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.” While students may have to replace a garden with a daily walk through Kelvingrove Park, our own private libraries are flourishing. Perhaps at the expense of the public good that public libraries provide.”

International news

• Czech Republic – Sustainability in Czech Libraries – CILIP. Webinar, March 22 Wednesday 5pm. ” established SDGs in Czech librarianship and empowered dozens of libraries to become pioneers of sustainable development topics in their communities.”
• South Korea – Exploring the Innovative Community Libraries of Korea – Publishers Weekly. “there is no future for libraries—instead, there are many diverse futures, futures diverse as the communities libraries are designed to serve. And in these futures, librarians shape their libraries around these unique communities, diverse in demographics, needs, capabilities, and locations.” … “Fair warning, these libraries really cannot be replicated. What makes them work is that they are all hand made for their unique communities. “
• USA – Confronting white nationalism in libraries: a toolkit – Western States Center. “This toolkit is designed to help readers counter multiple forms of organized bigotry. This includes organizing that draws on anti-Blackness, anti-Indigenous bigotry, anti-immigrant bigotry, anti-Muslim bigotry, antisemitism, misogyny, and anti-LGBTQ+ bigotry.”

Local news by authority

• Bradford – Virtual reality will allow library visitors to step into city’s past – Telegraph and Argus. “There will be six Virtual Reality experiences available using a virtual reality headset and members of the public can expect to find themselves experiencing life as a rebellious teenager as she discovers her mother’s punk past – or they can take part in one of the many South Asian daytime raves that took place across the UK in the 1980s and 1990s, and hear what earlier generations thought life would be like today.”
• Brighton and Hove – Plan to close library on Saturdays released as result of ‘administrative error’ – Yahoo News. “Mr Hawtree, who plans to stand again for the Greens in Central Hove at the local elections in May, said: “Glad to say that reports of a closing day at Hove’s Carnegie Library hours are misplaced. We need hours, librarians – and good book stocks.””
  • Fight to save library threatened with closure as part of council cost cutting plans – Yahoo News. “Two Independent councillors are trying to save a library from closure as the council prepares to decide a number of cuts in its budget for the coming financial year. North Portslade councillors Anne Pissaridou and Peter Atkinson are battling to keep Mile Oak Library open.”
• Buckinghamshire – Bucks libraries fines amnesty set to end soon – Bucks Free Press. The public will be fined again for not returning books by a specified time from 28 February.
• Beaconsfield Community Association fights to keep library newspapers – Bucks Free Press. “The Beaconsfield Community Association has continued to pay for copies of Bucks Free Press and The Week at Beaconsfield Library. The move comes after Buckinghamshire Council discontinued hardcopies of newspapers and magazines at Council-run libraries following a survey it ran in August last year. The Council cited an increase in the use of digital newspapers and magazines as a reason for the change.”
• Cambridgeshire – Cambridgeshire Libraries’ talk on LGBT history proves the importance of remembering – Cambridge News.
• Cardiff – Protesters march through Cardiff to oppose plans for St David’s Hall and libraries – Wales Online. “Protesters marched through Cardiff city centre on Saturday afternoon to oppose plans to cut spending on beloved cultural institutions. Cardiff council’s recent budget consultation survey laid out proposals to privatise St David’s Hall, close the Cardiff Story Museum and cut library opening hours.” … “Speeches from Welsh authors, musicians, conservationists, trade unionists and anti-austerity campaigners followed, including children’s author and poet Mike Church and Alice Shing, who was integral in the campaign to save Cardiff’s Roath library in 2015. Ms Shing spoke of the benefits public libraries offer to new mums, young families and people vulnerable to mental health problems.”
• Cheshire East – Cheshire East hoping reduced library hours will be temporary – Knutsford Guardian. “The proposal to reduce the opening hours and to close on Saturdays met with an angry response from the public during the consultation period. As a result the proposal to close on Saturdays was dropped. At Wednesday’s meeting of the full council, when the budget was approved, Cllr Mick Warren, chair of the environment and communities committee, said: “By reducing the opening hours in our libraries we will be able to make substantial savings in this year’s budget and help balance the MTFS (mid-term financial strategy 2023-7).”
  • Public anger aired over CEC plan to reduce library opening times – Nantwich News. “Apart from issuing books, [the libraries] already process blue badges, bus pass applications, take council payments, undertake DBS checks for taxi drivers, verify evidence for benefit applicants, take homeless enquiries and, of course, signpost residents to other sources of help,” he said. “By increasing our offer of services in libraries in future years, I believe this will enable them to return to full-time hours as has happened in other authorities.””
• Cheshire West and Chester – CWAC libraries ready for World Book Day 2023 – So Counties. “Library teams have been busy organising fancy dress swap events and are now getting ready to exchange thousands of new books on Saturday 4th March. The vouchers will be given out for free to children in schools, nurseries and other settings across the borough on Thursday 2nd March 2023, which is World Book Day.”
• Derby – Roar-some reads for all the family – Derby Council. “Let’s go on a dinosaur discovery adventure with Derby Libraries’ Big Family Read. Join in from Mon 20 Feb to Sat 1 Apr with the Roar-some reading theme of dinosaurs! This reading challenge aims to encourage families across Derby with children aged three to 11, to read for fun with events, activities, and a book competition.”
• East Lothian – New app for library users allows you to choose your next book ‘on the move’ – East Lothian Council. Spydus.
• East Riding – Flotsam and Jetsom wash up in East Riding Libraries at Willerby, Haltemprice, and North Bridlington in March – East Riding Council. Lempen Puppet Theatre.  Adult £6, Children £3.
• Gloucestershire – Gloucestershire libraries to celebrate World Book Day – Gloucester Bid. Author events, fancy dress.
• Greenwich – Free mobile sim card boost for hard-up Greenwich residents – London News Online. “sim cards to eligible residents through Greenwich Supports, the council’s cost of living campaign, and the Good Things Foundation, which promotes digital access for the disadvantaged.  “
• Gwynedd – Council invests cash in library services – Cambrian News. £60,000 from the Welsh Government’s Library Transformation Capital Fund. “a space to better display books and the public computer section has been moved. The Children’s Section has been transformed” … “Petha Penygroes service has been launched at Penygroes Library. ‘Petha’ is a new project in Gwynedd which seeks to establish a Library of Things in three communities throughout the county,”
• Haringey – Alexandra Park Library to reopen following improvement works – Haringey Council. “Library users will benefit from an improved and more accessible local library with a new lift, accessible toilets, new lighting, IT upgrades and redecoration of all interior spaces, including a revamped children’s library. A new electric piano has also been installed as part of Haringey Council’s partnership with Casio to introduce electric pianos in all the borough’s libraries”
• Inverclyde – Port Glasgow Library closing for maintenance work – Inverclyde Council.
• Jersey – Library launches new pet therapy scheme – BBC. “Staff said the event on Thursday was a success, and hope it will become a regular service. Run by Therapy Dogs Nationwide, their work is aimed at helping people with loneliness, anxiety and stress by sharing time with the animals. Ed Jewell, chief librarian, said “anyone can pop along” – and pick up a book at the same time.”
• Kirklees – World Book Day 2023 Live Lesson comes to Batley Library – Kirklees Council. “Production company The Connected Set will be at Batley Library on Wednesday 01 March, when the library is usually closed, for rehearsals before the live lesson is broadcast the next day.  The library will be closed to the public on Thursday 2 March for filming. The Library will reopen on Friday 3 March for business as usual.”
• Lambeth – Smart borrowing for jobseekers – Love Lambeth. “Brixton Library and ihateironing laundry and drycleaning service have relaunched their partnership to help low-income residents dress for success in  job interviews.”
• Lancashire – Kirkham Library temporarily shuts its doors for roof repairs – Lancashire Council. “The temporary closure is due to essential repair work being undertaken on the roof of the library. This is to allow stage one of a two-stage repair of the roof to take place.”
• Manchester – Manchester rated ‘Excellent’ by UNESCO as a Creative City of Literature – University of Manchester. “The city’s annual week-long Festival of Libraries was described as “a most impressive initiative… [attracting] great attention both locally and internationally”. “
• North Somerset – Join the celebration at North Somerset libraries this World Book Day – North Somerset Council. “Children who have not received a £1 World Book Day token at school will be able to collect one from their local library. Children aged up to four years old will be able to collect a free book at a North Somerset library when they borrow books on their library card.” Themed rhymetimes and storytimes.
• North Yorkshire – Join online library chat with best-selling thriller writer – North Yorkshire Council. Simon Scarrow.
  • North Yorkshire Under-Fives week: Libraries to host events – Gazette Herald.
  • Scarborough Man’s Club Find Temporary Home as Library Closes – This Is The Coast. “£450,000 will be spent on Scarborough Library during a major refit which will include work to the Children’s Library, a new IT area and a community and exhibition space.”
• Northern Ireland – Celebrate World Book Day 2023 with Libraries NI – News Letter. Events.
• Nottinghamshire – New £741,000 Library Learning Facility for Nottinghamshire town – West Bridgford Wire. “The Library Learning Facility project is one of six regeneration projects being funded through the £21.1m Stapleford Towns Fund. The existing town library, owned by the County Council, and run by Inspire will be remodelled, creating more space for new entry level skills education and training, allowing residents with little or no formal qualifications to take their first step, within their local community, on their lifelong learning journey.”
• Portsmouth – Portsmouth librarian shortlisted for prestigious national award – Portsmouth Council. Libraries Connected Awards: “Portsmouth librarian, Julie Duffy, has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award for the innovative work she has undertaken in Portsmouth City Council’s libraries for over 20 years, making them more accessible to people who are blind or vision impaired.”
• Rotherham – Rotherham: Libraries begin self-service trial – BBC. “Mowbray Gardens Library and Brinsworth Community Library in Rotherham will open on a self-serve basis at times when they would normally be closed.”
• Sheffield – Backlash over transgender cartoonist with a fetish for nappy art who is set to speak to teenage children and families at library about her book ‘The Best of Assigned Male’ – Mail. Conservative MP and newspaper furious at adult author event where 13+ can attend. see also Sophie Labelle Sheffield: Trans cartoonist who made ‘diaperfur’ art responds to MP’s concerns over event at library – Star. “Ms Labelle previously tweeted: “I made some diaperfur art. I have a kink I indulge responsibly and I refuse to be shamed for it. The people shoving my art and my life into everyone’s face are bad-faith actors looking for an excuse to attack a trans woman.”
• Solihull – Solihull librarian shortlisted for prestigious national award – Solihull Council. Libraries Connected Awards: “Solihull Heritage and Local Studies librarian Tracey Williams has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award which celebrates the achievements of library workers.”
• Stoke on Trent – Celebrate World Book Day at Stoke-on-Trent Libraries – Stoke On Trent Council. Storytimes.
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries’ wellbeing champions shortlisted for prestigious national award – Suffolk Libraries. Libraries Connected Awards: “Laura Parker, Suffolk Libraries’ Director of People and Culture, and Jane Cox, Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager have been jointly shortlisted under the Health & Wellbeing category for their work to coordinate and energise Suffolk Libraries Wellbeing Champions staff group.”
  • Paws-itivity campaign gets a big boost from a mystery local artist and a new sponsor – Suffolk libraries. “The Hat has generously created and donated a wonderful piece of Labrador-shaped artwork called Cyril, wearing a signature style hat. Suffolk Libraries are hoping the sale of the artwork will boost the total money raised when this and the dog sculptures are auctioned at Trinity Park on 12 October.”
• Swindon – Old Town Library 2017 to 2023 – Community Libraries Network. Volunteer library has increase in staff and loans. New library planned. Multiple events.
• Telford and Wrekin – iPad Lending Library comes to Newport – Telford and Wrekin Council. “Anyone over the age of 18 who has a Telford and Wrekin Library Card can borrow an iPad from Newport or Southwater Libraries, free of charge, for up to four weeks at a time. The loan also includes data too, so borrowers won’t incur any costs.” … “The Library iPad Lending Scheme is part of a wider project, supported by £326,000 funding as part of Telford & Wrekin Council’s £28million On Your Side investment, to address digital exclusion and help more people in the borough access the internet.”
• Warwickshire – Visit Warwickshire Libraries this half-term to enjoy a week packed full of children’s dinosaur-themed activities – Warwickshire Council.
• West Berkshire – ‘Staffing is so lean that casual cover is needed for every staff absence’ – Newbury Today. “West Berkshire’s libraries are at breaking point because of lack of funding and an over reliance on volunteer staff. A report to the council’s executive committee says the current funding model, which relies on voluntary contributions from parish and town councils in order to deliver a balanced budget, needs to be urgently reviewed. The libraries budget and staffing reduced in 2017 by 44 per cent. The revised budget for libraries was set at £1,046,000 for the new library service, a cut of £690,000.”
• Wiltshire – Wiltshire libraries provide warm space during cost-of-living crisis – Salisbury Journal. “So far more than 1,000 packs have been provided; each contains a hot water bottle, blanket and thermal mug.”. Council-funded.
• Wirral – Proposals to close Wirral libraries and playgrounds thrown out by councillors – Liverpool World. “The proposals will now be debated by all councillors on February 27 and looks likely to pass with support from the Liberal Democrats and the Greens who voted to move the budget forward with Labour.”
• Worcestershire – No market, library relocation and Parkinson’s audit – This weeks Redditch Standard letters – Redditch Standard / Letters. ” Mr Dormer has to listen to all of the residents of Redditch who are saying they do not want the library to be demolished. By moving it to the Town Hall, it is way from any meaningful footfall but most of all they will be diminishing the library space on one single reason – they have not allowed any space whatsoever for the provision of computers. But they are still saying that the space will increase.”

Editorial

Two bits of news catch my eye today. The first is the, wow, £500 million going to the British Library in London. That’s more than half what goes into the entire national public library service each year. On the one hand, it’s great to see such a massive investment in libraries and, it’s of course not government money that would otherwise have gone to public libraries. That is, the sector has lost nothing from it and may well gain in some ways. On the other hand, that’s because almost government funding almost never goes to public libraries instead. If I was being hyper-cynical I’d point out that the 100,000 new square foot represents ten square feet for each of the 10,000 public library staff lost over the last decade. But I am of course a massive optimist. Yay. And even though it’s a very handy short walk away from Euston, the three hour journey and £150 return cost (if I’m lucky) will tend to put me off visiting to admire it. So I don’t think it’s going to help Levelling Up North. But, on the whole, well done and best wishes to the British Library. They have been more aware of public libraries recently, what with business centres and webinars and the work on (launch any time now, honest) LibraryOn, the Single Digital Presence. And, after all, library sector beggars can’t be choosers.

The other bit of news is the censoring of a nursery rhyme, Five Little Monkeys, in Scottish Book Bug sessions. It appears to have some “historical racist intent”. I’ve not heard it for years and now I know why I guess. But it brings me on to a thought I’ve been having for a while. And that is, weirdly, the explosion of information on the internet has led to an increase in demands for restricting freedom from all sides and all reasons. We see this most notably in the Land Of The Free, where there are ongoing bans and challenges to pretty much any book your average Christian Extremist or Far Righter does not disagree with. And, on the other side, there are “Woke” challenges to a whole bunch of other stuff. This is going on while in what used to be the Soviet Bloc, Russia is busy getting rid of any Ukrainian books and Ukraine is busy dumping Russian books. Don’t get me wrong, I know which side I’m on in both cases (and it ain’t with the Proud Boys and Vladimir Putin) but in a world where one can be called a groomer for not thinking a drag queen is an automatic paedophile (I think that sums up the argument) it’s great to see Ireland resisting attempts to remove books. Freedom comes with a cost and it’s unfortunately the public library sector that is starting to pay.

Changes by local authority

• Brighton and Hove – Mile Oak Library may close in £35k cut.
• Medway – Lordswood Library becomes “community hub”
• Worcestershire – Possible £178k cut for Warndon and St John’s libraries

National news

• 3 Essential Components Of The Library – Princh. Staff, events/programmes, IT.
• Alan Hopkinson IFLA Conference Award 2023 – IFLA. “This Award enables a CILIP member in their early career (full criteria below) to experience the IFLA Congress.  The Award covers the whole cost of the IFLA conference fee and £100 towards travel and accommodation.”
• The British Library doesn’t need £500m – but local libraries do – Guardian / Letters. “Since 2010 almost 800 local libraries have been closed across the UK, with the loss of 10,000 staff, and many surviving libraries are at best part-time. Against this backdrop, it is staggering to read that an investment of £500m has been proposed for the British Library (Green light given for huge British Library extension, 3 February). Communities all over the country are being deprived of free access to not only books and information, but also the internet …” see also British Library extension given green light by Camden Council – Built Environment Networking. 100,000 extra square foot.

• Community Managed Libraries Map – Community Managed Libraries National Peer Network. Google Map of volunteer libraries. [Not entirely accurate – Ed.]
• Funding fears: Libraries should be staffed like any other council service – Yahoo News. ” Professor Peter Reid says free access to books remains fundamentally important in a civilised society. The professor of librarianship at Aberdeen’s Robert Gordon University added that while it might be a time of crisis for local government finances, libraries can and do evolve.”
• GLL-operated libraries battle digital exclusion with free SIM card scheme – GLL (press release). “More than 60 libraries operated by charitable social enterprise GLL, have this week launched a scheme to provide nearly 16,000 free SIM cards to residents on low incomes and those who are struggling with the cost of living. Libraries located in London’s Bromley, Greenwich and Wandsworth, along with those in Dudley and Lincolnshire will be distributing the cards, building on GLL’s existing Warm Spaces initiative – set up to support those struggling to afford sharp rises in utility bills. The ability to offer free SIM cards is the result of a successful application to the Good Things Foundation and courtesy of mobile phone network operators 3, 02 and Vodafone.”
• Libraries vital for new and growing businesses, briefing reveals – Libraries Connected. “Our new briefing, ‘Supporting Business and Enterprise’, shows that public libraries are central to realising this ambition. Through Business & IP Centres and other localised services, the library network has become one of the country’s most effective and accessible sources of support for new and growing businesses. As the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee recently put it, libraries act as “engines for entrepreneurship, economic growth and job creation””
• Make Music Day 2023 – Libraries Meet Up – EventBrite. Tuesday 14 March, 4pm, online. “Make Music Day is an annual set of free music events taking place in venues and public spaces – from town squares to libraries, bandstands to school halls and arts centres. It takes place on the longest day of the year – on 21 June.”
• Nursery rhymes banned in Scottish library events over ‘historical racism’ fears – Telegraph. “Popular “Bookbug” sessions are held for young children across Scotland with the support of the Scottish Book Trust, the Holyrood-backed charity which has told libraries and nurseries hosting these events that certain songs should no longer be sung. Despite having lyrics unrelated to race, Five Little Monkeys has been banned because it has “historical racist intent”.”
• Public Libraries 2022: Netloan Customer Survey Results – Lorensbergs. “Average footfall has reached nearly 70% of pre-Covid levels, up from around 50% at end of 2021″
• Public Libraries Project of the Year Grant – National Acquisitions Group. “£5,000 available for a project from a NAG Member library.”
• Tricky decisions as Scotland’s councils face budget shortfalls – BBC. “Individual local authorities have shortfalls ranging from around £7m in the Scottish Borders to £120m at Glasgow City Council, according to research by the BBC.”

International news

• Ireland – Dublin libraries to keep books by trans author despite attempts to remove them – GCN. “Recognising the importance of including LGBTQ+ storytelling in their children and teen sections, Dublin libraries have confirmed that the books will stay.” but “A Local Government Management Agency public libraries spokesperson said that the Government’s National LGBTQ+ Inclusion Strategy for 2019-2021 included a call for, “…public libraries to compile an LGBTQ+ reading list and update it on an ongoing basis, [and] these books are part of that list”.”
• Ukraine – Ukraine purges libraries of Russian-language books – official – Russian Times. Russian-owned news website seeks to put it’s own views of removal of books from Ukrainian libraries. see also Ukraine withdraws 19 million Russian, Soviet-era books from libraries – Reuters for a somewhat less slanted version and Ukraine war: Russia is ‘erasing Ukrainian history’ by ransacking libraries and burning books – I. For when the boot is on the other foot: “Russian forces and proxy authorities have been removing 365 named texts from libraries and schools as part of a process of ‘Russification’ of occupied territories”.
• USA – A librarian’s frontline view of Florida’s ‘vetting’ process for school books, and the titles being banned – Independent. “The library is now closed off, the shelves are empty, and her job now mostly consists of “vetting” piles of books to comply with new censorship laws implemented by the state of Florida.” … “Among the titles that have been removed and banned in the course of the vetting in her school district are Toni Morrison’s ‘The Bluest Eye,’ ‘The Kite Runner’ by Khaled Hosseini, ‘The Stranger’ by Albert Camus, ‘Revolting Rhymes’ by Roald Dahl, and a skateboarding magazine called ‘Thrasher’.”
  • Limiting library books has long-term consequences – Washington Post / Opinion. ” If librarians can’t purchase these books, publishers will not publish them and authors will not write them. We might lose voices that are much needed in this time of great division in our country. Those who are marginalized will be even more unseen, and difficult topics such as racial injustice and prejudice will become even more ignored.”
  • The EveryLibrary Institute’s 2022 Annual Report – EveryLibrary. Highlights censorship.
  • Why libraries should include media literacy training for adults – Press Reader. Trust in social media, false/unproven claims, education combats misinformation, generation gap in technology, courses for older students, lifelong learning, critical thinking.

Local news by authority

• Angus – Grant to help libraries better serve isolated communities – Angus World. £11k grant. “The Angus project will target those who are geographically isolated and unable to travel to and engage with libraries in the county’s main burghs.”
• Bath and North East Somerset – Ukrainian pictures go up for children in B&NES libraries – Bath and North East Somerset Council. “The ABC pictures are going up in the children’s section of Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton Libraries.”
• Bradford – Keighley Library to host sessions for SEND families – Keighley News. “There will be multi-sensory storytelling, and large-print braille books, sensory toys and comic booklets will be available”
• Brighton and Hove – Library earmarked for closure as councillors look to close budget gap of £14m – Yahoo Sport. “Mile Oak library is earmarked for closure – a move that could save Brighton and Hove City Council £35,000 a year, according to a budget report. Last year the council explored moving the library, in Chalky Road, Portslade, into a room in the nearby sports centre, which was being used by two snooker leagues…. just 150 people visit Mile Oak library a month, compared with 3,500 five years ago and as many as 1,000 a month before the coronavirus pandemic.”
• Cheshire East – Cutting CEC library hours will hit less fortunate, councillors warn – Nantwich News. “Macclesfield councillor Ashley Farrall (Lab) said: “It’s important to know libraries aren’t just there for books, they’re community hubs, they’re safe spaces, they’re quiet spaces for people that may not have a home where it’s quiet to study, to get on with their school work etc.”. Council says ” we have to find £20m from somewhere.” see also Cheshire East asked to re-think plan to reduce library hours – Knutsford Guardian.
• Cheshire West and Chester – Founding CEO of Chester’s Storyhouse to step down after 17 years – Cheshire Live. Andrew Bentley leaves.

• Derby – Derby library ‘closures timetable’ circulated as 10 community-managed branches face axe – Derby Telegraph. “The future of Derby’s ten community-managed libraries remains uncertain as a report going to the council cabinet next week proposes that they should remain open until the end of July 23, under the control of charity Direct Help and Advice (DHA) and at a cost of up to £108,000.”
• East Riding – East Riding Libraries partnering with the Marine Conservation Society this February half term – East Riding Council.
• East Sussex – 5,000 books missing from libraries in East Sussex – Sussex Express. Amnesty: “From February 13 – March 31 if you return an overdue book you won’t be fined.”
• Hampshire – Chat about loneliness at Petersfield, Alton and Bordon libraries – Petersfield Post. “Joining a Chat About scheme is an easy way to get started in opening up if you’re having a tough time, feeling lonely or if you want to connect with others”
• Manchester – Manchester Libraries PLUS survey opens – Manchester Council. “The last time the survey was conducted [in 2020], 90.9% of customers rated their libraries overall as good and very good. 81% of respondents who reported feeling lonely some of the time or often, said that using the library helped to reduce these feelings. “
• Medway – Creating a new community hub in Lordswood – Medway Council. “The library in Kestrel Road will close from Monday, 20 February and the new hub is due to open this summer. Once completed, residents will able to visit the new look community hub for help with their blue badge and bus pass applications, book bulky waste collections and pay for council services such as rent and council tax.”

• North Somerset – New Lego rental scheme launches at Somerset libraries – Somerset Live. “Themed Lego boxes in stock include ‘under the sea’, ‘houses’, ‘wheels’, ‘outdoors/gardens’, ‘pink’, and ‘mix and match’. There are 32 boxes of Lego, one box of Duplo, and one box of Stickle Bricks. Every box comes with learning activity sheets as part of the council’s involvement in the Lego: Build a world of play project.”
• North Tyneside – UK Woman Who Kept Library Book For 56 Years Finally Returns It – NDTV. The media continues to love this almost-once-per-week story. see also Woman kept overdue library book for 56 years over 3p fine – but now it’s far worse – Mirror. ” Lesley moved away from the area and was too scared to return it because she couldn’t afford the late fees – with 3p being charged every week it was in her possession.”
• Nottinghamshire – Fire investigation launched after blaze at Beeston Library – West Bridgford Wire. “A fire investigation determined that the fire was deliberate, and a joint investigation with Nottinghamshire Police is underway.” … “We apologise that in the short term, we will have no customer toilets, some events and activities may be affected and study space reduced”
• Stirling – How people power delivered £1m library for Strathblane community – Herald Scotland. “Strathblane resident and businessman Angus Graham, Thomas’ great great nephew, generously donated almost three quarters towards the £1million project with the rest of the money being raised through the community and grant aid.” and says “”I helped with the easy part, it is the Strathblane Community Development Trust which has had the hard part. “
• Suffolk – Menopause and Me – Suffolk Libraries needs your help – Suffolk Libraries. “Local employers are being asked to fill in a short survey to help Suffolk Libraries understand what support already exists for employees experiencing the menopause and how Menopause & Me can help. The survey will be open until the end of March.”
  • Essential maintenance work to take place at Woodbridge Library – Suffolk Libraries. “The inside walls will be replastered and decorated, and some of the exterior windows will also be repaired.”

• Tameside – What Tameside libraries have to offer – Quest Media Network. Standard library offerings plus “ow part of the Good Things Foundation National Databank, which can offer free SIM cards to adults who cannot afford to access the internet”
• Warwickshire – Love is in the air! Explore our unique ceremony venue next to Shakespeare’s Birthplace during Stratford ‘Library Lovers Week’ – Warwickshire Council. “xplore the library’s great collection of love stories and novels, and even be matched up on a ‘blind date’ with a brilliant new book to read. Staff will be sharing the love each day by carrying out random acts of library kindness for visitors …”
• Wirral – Thousands ask council not to close ‘historic and vital’ library – Liverpool Echo. “Thousands have signed petitions calling for Wirral Council not to close Wallasey Central Library in its current form.”

“The Minister talks about the terrible circumstances in Ukraine and the events of the last year, but he must recognise that the scale of the cuts since 2010 have been devastating for our local authorities, which have had to consider closing libraries, swimming pools, leisure centres and so forth. Can he confirm that it is in fact more of a long-term problem and that we need greater investment in our public services?”

Margaret Greenwood MP Labour, Wirral West

• Worcestershire – Threat to city’s libraries as ‘lifeline’ funding set to be pulled – Yahoo News. “The future of some of the city’s libraries could be thrown into doubt as part of a plan to cut ‘lifeline’ funding. Worcester City Council pledged to supply £157,000 to Worcestershire County Council every year as part of a deal to keep services running at Warndon and St John’s libraries in 2019. But now city council bosses are discussing pulling the plug on the agreement and leaving the county to fund the service.”
• York – Dringhouses library faces temporary closure for heating repairs – Press. “Due to issues with the heating system at Dringhouses Library, York Explore Libraries & Archives has notified councillors of plans to temporarily close the library from Monday February 13 until the end of the month. Ward councillors have raised concerns about the impact of the temporary closure on the local community and have asked for an urgent meeting with Explore to discuss possible temporary solutions which would ensure that staff, volunteers and residents can safely access vital services.”