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Editorial

Good grief, there’s a lot going on in Suffolk. You’ll remember that the council there has decided to bring back libraries into full council control, after it being run by a non-profit, Suffolk Libraries. Well, it looks like this is not the most popular decision, with over 20,000 signing a petition in protest and existing library volunteers declaring they will not continue helping out if the non-profit goes. Also, it turns out the change will cost £1.8m, which Suffolk Libraries points out, would secure the service under them with no reductions for three years. There’s also concern that whatever the councillors say, future austerity, and devolution, will force cuts on the service. In response, the council is promising extra investment and accusing the trust of being run by fat cats. The final decision will be made on Tuesday.

Awards are a great way of publicising library services, as well as highlighting the wonderful things they do. The British Book Awards have proven this again this year, with the help that there were joint winners and also some highly commended. Which is just showing off. But the best kind.

In other news, it’s sad to see Brighton and Hove, which I associate with good things library-wise as well as a rather bohemian outlook on life, thinking about cutting services but, on the other hand, good news in Knowsley where the temporarily extended opening hours have been confirmed long-term.

Changes by library authority

• Brighton and Hove – Up to three libraries under threat
• Knowsley – Lengthened opening hours confirmed.

National news

• The British Book Awards 2025 Library of the Year regional and county winners revealed – BookSeller. “Ten libraries and library authorities, from across the UK and Ireland, have been crowned regional and country winners at The British Book Awards 2025, celebrating those that make reading more accessible and inclusive. Lewisham, Manchester and Midlothian Library Services are among those to make the final cut from the 36 shortlisted finalists.” … “That there are joint winners, and four high commendations, speaks to the tough decisions the judges had to make.”. Winners include ” All Star Book Club designed for adults with Down syndrome”; “‘Winchester GoLD’ programme supporting adults with learning disabilities led to 40% of those attending signing up to the library”; ” Gaelic and British Sign Language sessions”;  a creative project engaging Afghan refugees with flower pressing to create bookmarks; Summer Reading Challenge training; Blue Peter Book Club Live programme; Imagined Worlds festival, a series of events celebrating sci-fi and fantasy; 21 Book Challenge for adult readers”
• Carnegie Medal for Writing Shortlist 2025 – The Carnegies.
• Many families may not feel welcome at library storytimes – here’s how to ensure everyone benefits from them – Conversation. “In theory, storytime sessions at local libraries should be part of the solution.” … However, it may be that because these sessions tend to be designed and delivered by confident, experienced readers, and attended by families who already engage with books at home, parents who did not have this advantage may feel less welcome or even uncomfortable.”
• Public Libraries Forum 2025: 40 Years of NAG – Looking Back, Looking Forward – National Acquisitions Forum. “NAG’s Collection Development Seminar and Public Libraries Forum event will take place at the Leeds Marriott Hotel, Trevelyan Square, LS1 6ET, on Thursday 15th May 2025.”
• Public library byelaws – Gov.uk. “These model library byelaws, supersede those published in August 2017. They are intended to help public libraries deliver their service within a safe and comfortable environment, to safeguard library property and to make libraries places everyone can enjoy.”
• Sadiq Khan demands book exchanges reinstated in Tube stations amid fire safety row – Standard. “I’ve seen the difference they make, by speaking to commuters around Highbury & Islington, Oval and other parts of the network. TfL and LFB are responding to my request, and I’m hoping there’ll be a very swift announcement that this decision has been u-turned.”” see also Tube station book swap ban ‘ridiculous’ – BBC.
• Stars of the Shelves Author Visits Helping Children Connect with Literacy – Welsh Libraries. ““Stars of the Shelves” is the latest project run by The Book Council of Wales and funded by Welsh Government. The purpose of the project is to invite authors to hold workshops for school children in libraries throughout Wales. The project runs until the end of March 2025 and over 25 authors from Wales will have had the chance to hold sessions to approx 4,500 children in 75 different libraries across Wales.”
• Toy library scheme ‘would help struggling families’ – BBC. “Friends of the Earth Cymru, Early Years Wales, and an existing toy library have jointly written an open letter to the Welsh government calling for its support for the scheme.”
• Working with IT: Library Guide for the Year Ahead – Lorensbergs. “With the right IT support, libraries can explore how they might develop the underlying library offer, how they might advance digital access and skills development overall. Can they do it better? Can they be more ambitious in who they help and with what tasks or skills?”

International news

• USA – Struggle for control of public libraries in full swing across the Deep South – Southern Poverty Law Center. “No one used to envision libraries as battlefields. But in 2025, that’s what they have become. Across the South over the last decade, control of what happens on bookshelves has turned into a pitched battle, with white supremacist and Christian nationalist groups on one side facing off against an unlikely coalition of progressives, educators, Black leaders and drag queens on the other.” … “more than a third (36%) of the 4,218 books banned during the 2023-2024 school year featured characters or people of color. Measuring only history books or biographies, that number rises to 44%. ”
  • Behind the stacks: research exposes sexual harassment of library workers – University of Alberta. “Only seven per cent of workers report never being harassed by patrons, say researchers who have identified “pillars of resistance.””
  • Statement on Trump’s Attack on Federal Funding for Libraries – EveryLibrary. “The Executive Order states that IMLS must be reduced to its “statutory functions.” It also requires that “non-statutory components and functions …shall be eliminated to the maximum extent…”. We are extremely concerned that the wording of this E.O. could result in cuts to the core functions of IMLS. The Administration and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have used similar E.O.s to dismantle the other federal agencies.”

Local news by authority

• Aberdeen – New chapter for Cults Library as locals launch crusade to bring it back to life – Press and Journal. “Residents of an Aberdeen suburb have joined forces to ensure the story of Cults Library isn’t over quite yet… The venue was one of six libraries to be axed during “machete-wielding” city council budget cuts two years ago. Local authority chiefs closed them to save around £280,000 per year.”. Friends group trying to reopen Cults Library.
• Barnsley – Barnsley Libraries named one of the best libraries in the North at the British Book Awards – Barnsley Council. “Judges selected Barnsley for the fantastic work of our National Portfolio Organisation Team, who support exciting cultural activities across our libraries, including developing the travelling Story Shell with international artists Suzie Devey and Steve Messam, to encourage reading in new creative ways.”
• Brighton and Hove – Brighton’s Jubilee Library is one of the most popular in the country – Argus. “More than 3,000 new members joined Brighton & Hove libraries within the first two weeks and the library was visited 810,000 times in its first year, with 23,000 new members. Twenty years later, Jubilee Library is still bustling with activity and continues to be one of the top 10 most popular libraries in the country. Jubilee Library has been far more successful than originally projected. In the year before the Covid-19 pandemic, the library had a million visitors, twice the number originally projected.”
  • Up to three libraries may close, says council report – Brighton and Hove News. “Up to three community libraries could close while customer services look likely to be moved out of the town hall and into remaining libraries in Brighton and Hove. The possible changes are outlined in a report to Brighton and Hove City Council’s People Overview and Scrutiny Committee”
• Camden – Swiss Cottage Library celebrates 60 years with new children’s library and historic exhibition – Camden Council. “Last week, Camden Council celebrated World Book Day at Swiss Cottage Library by opening the redesigned children’s library and launching an exhibition commemorating the gallery space’s sixtieth anniversary. The event saw the unveiling of the new children’s library, a vibrant and engaging space designed to nurture a passion for reading and learning in young people. “. Some lovely photos.
• Derbyshire – Reduced library opening times to come into force – BBC. “The library service strategy unveiled by Derbyshire County Council in July aims to save £625,000 over the next four years. The changes, which were agreed after a 12-week public consultation, come into force on 31 March and will see all 43 council-run libraries open for at least 16 hours per week.” … “Reservation charges for book and talking book requests, where the item is either in print or in stock in Derbyshire libraries, are being ended, as are charges for borrowing talking books.”
• Devon – Exeter librarian shortlisted for top national award – Exeter Council. “Chris has championed the transformation of Exeter Library into a ‘cultural powerhouse’, curating an innovative and accessible events programme that engages and reflects the diverse needs of the community.”
• Dorset – Verwood Library members given ‘extended access’ – Hello Rayo. “I usually work from home and Extended Access means I can use the library from early until late when it suits me, which is great.”
• East Lothian – Letter of the Week: Keep our libraries safe from cuts – East Lothian Courier. “If there are to be further cuts, could the people be consulted as to where the cuts could be made by the council? Can I also make a point about alternative openings on Saturdays being almost a way to undermine any success of Saturdays.”
• East Riding – Major refurbishment work on library to start soon – BBC. “East Riding of Yorkshire Council said the ground floor of the building would be fully refurbished and refitted with equipment including 3D printers, embroidery machines and the latest game design software. The refurbishment is being funded through a £250,000 grant from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s libraries improvement fund and about £200,000 from the council.”
  • SpringFest: Book festival comes to East Yorkshire – BBC. “SpringFest, organised by East Riding Libraries, includes talks by authors and workshops in libraries from 15 to 22 March.”
• Enfield – Enfield Council Pushes Ahead with Library Closures Despite Opposition – UK News in Pictures. “Enfield Council argues that the move will save up to £560,000 per year in staffing and operational costs, while the sale of the library buildings could generate between £3m and £3.85m.” … “The decision has sparked strong criticism from opposition Conservative councillors, who claim the cuts are unnecessary and harmful to communities.”
• Hampshire – Winchester Library in running for National Library of the Year award – Hampshire Council. “A creative initiative to encourage reading among people with learning disabilities” … “The free 30-minute readings of classic and modern tales create a welcoming and safe space for participants to enjoy interactive storytelling, socialise, and unwind.”
• Knowsley – Live blog: Knowsley Council Budget Meeting – Knowsley News. “We are making a permanent commitment to our Stronger Communities Fund and with an allocate £250,000 every year to community projects.  We will also permanently extend our library opening hours so that we can continue to provide community hubs for residents.”
• Lambeth – Lambeth Libraries named as “book BAFTAs” finalists – Lambeth Council. “For Lambeth’s librarians, being shortlisted is a recognition of the unique and innovative way they manage the books they stock for the community to borrow: buying the titles customers ask for, so the books are as diverse as their readership”
  • Lambeth Council to slash £1M from library budget while betting on gift shops and room hire to fill the gap – Brixton Buzz. “Lambeth Council plans to reduce the library budget by £1M for the next financial year by reducing the book fund budget and not recruiting for the current 14 vacancies across the borough.”
• Lewisham – Lewisham libraries named London’s best at prestigious book awards – News Shopper. “Lewisham Libraries has been crowned the London winner of The British Book Awards 2025 Library of the Year.” … “targeting specific niches and passions in books, capitalising on the current boom in fantasy to create the Imagined Worlds festival.”
• Lincolnshire – Grantham and Bourne MP Gareth Davies reflects on Lincolnshire libraries in wake of World Book Day – Lincs Online. “As well as acting as centres of learning within our community, our libraries also act as a hub. When I visited Grantham Library, I was excited to learn about their efforts to open up more space to growing local businesses. Work led by Lincolnshire County Council at Grantham Library to create a new IT suite equipped with business software, as well as drop-in working zones with acoustic booths for meetings is due to start in the summer. This is an excellent initiative to both drive local economic growth and boost access to our library being championed by a number of our county councillors.”
  • Bra banks launched to support cancer research – BBC. “Bra banks have been set up at libraries across Lincolnshire in partnership with the charity Against Breast Cancer. Donated bras are sent for textile recovery, giving them a new lease of life and raising money for work on research, including secondary spread cancer.”
• Manchester – Darren Harte & Colin Hyde chat to David Govier Archivist at Manchester Central Library – Mixcloud. “about the digitization project preserving the archive of Piccadilly Radio.”
• Middlesbrough – Revamp of IT services unveiled at Thorntree Hub and Library – Middlesbrough Council. “State-of-the-art upgrades have been unveiled at one of Middlesbrough’s community hubs as part of an investment programme. Improvements at Thorntree Community Hub and Library mark the final phase of a three-year project made possible through the Libraries Improvement Fund. The Hub’s IT area has been redesigned to create a modern, vibrant space fit for purpose for the 21st century.”
• Monmouthshire – Vow never to shut libraries ‘on my watch’ – Monmouthshire Beacon. “Labour’s Mary Ann Brocklesby did say however libraries and community hub buildings could be reviewed individually to see how they could operate more “effectively and efficiently” which she said could lead to “some challenging discussions”.”
• Norfolk – Opening date announced for new Great Yarmouth Library – Norfolk Council. “Great Yarmouth Library is due to reopen at its new location, ‘The Place,’ on 6 May 2025, it has been announced today. This will mark a new chapter for the library, which will be housed in the former Palmers department store – a central and easily accessible location in the heart of Great Yarmouth.”
• Nottinghamshire – Nottinghamshire library charges up around 5% from April to cover rising costs – West Bridgford Wire. “The council has proposed a series of modest price and rate increases across various services, with some charges remaining unchanged.”
• Shropshire – Bridgnorth exhibition pays tribute to a female unsung hero of Shropshire – Daily Motion.
• Staffordshire – Ten Staffordshire libraries receive share of £5m libraries investment – Express and Star. “More than 25 of Staffordshire’s 43 libraries are now community-managed services, where day to day running is carried out by a community group while the county council remains responsible for providing books, other stock and IT services and paying utility and maintenance costs. The scheme sparked concerns in some communities when it was first proposed more than a decade ago, but it has been hailed for keeping libraries open across the county and providing community meeting space and facilities.”
• Stoke on Trent – Former library could be turned into flats – BBC. “Plans have been submitted proposing to create nine apartments in the old Fenton Library in Stoke-on-Trent, which has been vacant for 13 years. It originally opened in 1906 after it was funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie”
• Suffolk – ‘Council library takeover will make things worse’ – BBC. Library users express their views of council ending contract with Suffolk Libraries. “I can’t imagine them making improvements, I expect that they will do the opposite and things will get worse” … “My fear is things will close or change… sadly, it wouldn’t surprise me if they took it over and things like this would go” … “”I think since the libraries have been run as a charity for the last 12 years they’ve done very well. I can’t see any way to change it, and I don’t think it could be improved in any way” 
  • Agenda Item 6 – Provision of Library Service (Update) – Suffolk Council. Link to Item 6 (Provision of library service) on Tuesday’s Cabinet agenda, which will decide the fate of Suffolk Libraries. “Bringing the service in-house and providing one-off investment will realise back office savings and efficiencies which will enable the protection of frontline library staff and maintain the service in its current budget envelope.” … “There will be an estimated upfront one-off cost to bringing the service back in house in year 1 of up to £1.8 million which will be funded through surplus in external revenue grant.”. Move will “provide significant opportunities for greater integration of the Council support and services, relating to Children and Young People, Public Health Communities and Adult Social Care through the 45
    libraries and their staff.”
  • Bright future for Suffolk’s libraries outlined – Suffolk Council. “By integrating the library service into the council, we will be able to deliver more cohesive and accessible public services, connecting residents with vital health and social support. “These library spaces will continue to serve as community hubs, providing seamless integration with other public services and ensuring that Suffolk’s residents can access the help they need, when they need it. “This is a positive move for Suffolk’s communities and the future of our libraries.””
  • Can Suffolk’s library service recover from the current row? – East Anglian Daily Times. Paywall. “Get a grip – that’s our blunt message today to both sides in the increasingly acrimonious row over Suffolk’s library service.”
  • Council must re-think its plan to break-up Suffolk Libraries – East Anglian Daily Times. “This weekend, I was out as usual talking to residents across Suffolk Coastal – speaking to hundreds of people over the Saturday and Sunday. And the biggest thing that came up as a frustration locally? It is probably of little surprise that so many people wanted to tell me about their dismay at Suffolk County Council’s decision to end their contract with Suffolk Libraries, and to bring the services in house.”

• Eleventh-hour talks over Suffolk libraries contract – East Anglian Daily Times. “Last-minute talks have been taking place between Suffolk Libraries bosses and county council officials in an attempt to reach agreement about the future of the service.” but Council refuses to u-turn. Suffolk Libraries says “We were forced to defend ourselves as the situation has been misrepresented and we are concerned about such a big decision being taken based on misunderstood facts and figures.”
  • Historian from Ixworth, near Bury St Edmunds, backs campaign against Suffolk County Council taking back control of a library service – Suffolk News. Behind paywall.
  • Please don’t make a decision about the library service based on flawed figures – Suffolk Libraries. “The county council’s main reasons for the decision are apparently financial but there is growing confusion that it now appears they are willing to spend additional money to take the service back (up to £1.8m according to their paper).  If offered to Suffolk Libraries as part of contract negotiations this money would have ensured a successful award of a new contract and allowed the organisation to maintain the service and opening hours well into the future.”
  • Sudbury protesters anger against Suffolk library decision – East Anglian Daily Times. Partial paywall. “Library protesters have revealed they will stop volunteering for the service should Suffolk County Council take it back in-house. ” see also Sudbury protesters anger against Suffolk library decision – Sudbury Mercury. “Members of the Friends of Sudbury Library and Friends of Great Cornard Library stated they’re “not happy to be railroaded into things that we don’t have any decision over”.” … “If Suffolk County Council do take over the libraries, I will leave. I will not volunteer anymore.””
  • Suffolk County Council disappointment over Suffolk Libraries refusal to share costs information publicly – Suffolk News. “Cllr Philip Faircloth-Mutton, the lead for the change, said: “It is disappointing that the public won’t get to hear the full story and be privy to all the facts.”
  • Suffolk County council publishes open letter about libraries – East Anglian Daily Times. Behind paywall.
  • A Tory council wants to bring library services back into public control – yet people are furious? – Canary. “So, for more than 12 years now, Suffolk Libraries has operated 45 libraries across the county. And in that time, it has run it without reducing the service – and largely, bar for an increase in 2024, done so without more council funding.” … “The council’s decision has sparked an outcry from local residents, who’ve organised protests against the move” … “it’s common knowledge that the Council might be swept away in a couple of years should devolution come in. How can we trust the Council with our libraries if they are prepared to risk their future against this backdrop?” … ” however, the council’s argument that the shortfall from increased costs should land on the broadest shoulders – senior management – is sound. It’s especially so when one of those increased costs is the rise in the minimum wage.” … “Moreover, a Conservative-run authority known for cuts to other public sector jobs and services is hardly the pinnacle of trustworthiness”
  • An Update on Our Contract – Suffolk Libraries. Petition has 21304 signatures at time of checking.
• Warwickshire – Stratford-upon-Avon and Alcester libraries announced as Regional and Country Winner ahead of The British Book Awards 2025 – Warwickshire Council. “The service’s award nomination placed particular emphasis on Stratford-upon-Avon and Alcester libraries’ Chatterbooks for Reluctant Readers programme”
• Westminster – Welcoming and celebrating neurodiversity in our libraries – Westminster Council. Libraries provide sensory stay and play, quiet hour, neurodiverse book collection.
• West Northamptonshire – Councillor storms out of meeting during debate on protecting libraries – Cambridge News. “Council confirmed its commitment to protecting all local libraries and commended their contributions to the community” but “the wording was changed to remove the mention of creating a council ‘backstop’ for local [volunteer] libraries that may be struggling”
  • Revamped Northampton library to reopen after five years to give community ‘lifeline’ – Northampton Chronicle. “Kingsthorpe Community Library, in Welford Road, has undergone a complete revamp in partnership with the local parish council and the Northamptonshire Libraries service to bring the building back to life and welcome visitors in the coming weeks. Volunteers and staff have been busy stacking shelves with books and hauling in new furniture to get the venue ready for its new patrons.”

“So of the 36 libraries in Northamptonshire back in 2017/18 there is just one that is now totally lost, i.e. Far Cotton in Northampton itself.”

Email received

• West Sussex – Remembering West Sussex’s pioneering “rebel librarian” – Sussex World. “The tale of Marian Frost is a remarkable one, one researched by Katie Gledhill, lead manager with the library service. Frost was instrumental in persuading international philanthropist Andrew Carnegie to fund a purpose-built library in Worthing in 1908 – 17 years before the county service was established. Katie said: “Throughout her life Marian was a real innovator and she dedicated her life to championing books and the power of libraries.”
  • West Sussex libraries recognised in this year’s British Book Awards – Sussex World. “adult literacy classes which gave it the edge over some stiff regional competition, by training more volunteers to support adults learning to read.”
• Worcestershire – Library Connect Groups: Connecting people and building community – Worcestershire Council. “Library Connect Groups are informal meetings in libraries that bring people together over a common interest or shared experience. Many are run by volunteers …”

Editorial

The big news is this week is the shock decision of Suffolk Council not to renew the six-year contract of non-profit Suffolk Libraries. And I mean “shock”: the trust found out only 15 minutes before the public did and there was apparently no consultation with them or the many Friends groups beforehand.

So, what’s at play here? The libraries will again be part of the Council from 1 June, there are 45 libraries in the county, with 364 “frontline” posts and 56 others. Suffolk Libraries has been running the service since 2012 with no reductions in service with no increase, until last year, in initial council funding. Council funding was £5.9m in 2023/24, which has been increased to £6.6m for 2024/25 but Suffolk Libraries gained extra funding, and recorded an income of £9.9m according to its latest accounts for the year to the end of March 2024.

But also what’s at play is the viability of non-profits running public libraries in the UK. Including Suffolk, eight councils have returned libraries to the council fold since spinning them out since 2010: Falkirk, Flintshire, Merthyr Tydfil, Northamptonshire, the Library of Birmingham, Peterborough and Warrington. For single-council (ish) trusts, that leaves just a few including Devon’s Libraries Unlimited and York Explore (itself facing substantial cuts). Explore already looks a bit shaky. Libraries Unlimited must be feeling dismayed.

And as for Suffolk? Well, the situation is disputed. I think readers of my recent editorials will know my opinion of the Trust has changed but make up your own mind. Below, are the pros and cons (in no particular order) that have been quoted by everyone I’ve spotted for the move. You can read the article links in the special Suffolk session too.

For the move back to Council control

• The belief that all public libraries should be run directly by the Council – Unison, Library Campaign
• Council says Suffolk Libraries will reduce hours by 30% [Presumably to reach the lower budget provided by the Council compare with inflation? We don’t know – Ed.]
• Council says 33% of to the Suffolk Libraries budget was at “head office” and suggest this is wasteful, with money to be saved by making some of these staff redundant.
• The Council calls itself “safe hands” and casts doubt on the financial viability Suffolk Libraries.
• Return to in-house means more of the library budget should be invested in frontline services
• No libraries would close and there would be no reduction in opening hours.
• A total of £200,000 will be invested in replacing Suffolk’s aging mobile libraries and a further £157,000 for new books and on replacing public computers. This was in addition to the standard budget.
• Shorter-term proposal by SL would have breached procurement law.

Against the move back

• Trust says volunteers may be less willing to work for the Council than a charity
• Trust says decision will lead to loss of funding from external grants and fund-raising. Suffolk Libraries say that they have secured direct funding for several key projects including a long-term community arts programme and various other community and wellbeing services. “Hundreds of thousands of pounds and activities across Suffolk could be lost”
• Suffolk Libraries raised it’s own funds: £400k of its own money through fundraising in 2023/24 and SCC’s ability to match this figure to support the service will be severely restricte; Over £500k of rate relief on library buildings will no longer be available; Tens of thousands of pounds of money raised by library friend’s groups (and their time and support) could be lost; The forfeiting of the contract for prison libraries that contribute over £100k profit every year, offsetting some of the back-office costs. This appears to comfortable be more than £1 million if fully added up.
• Service costs £3m less than it did when SL took over (and the Council ran it) but offers more services.
• Decision “will potentially cost taxpayers at least £1m in the first year and potentially more in the long term”
• SL seen as innovative, “recognised as pioneers for change and are regarded as a leading force within the industry”
• Changing back to Council control will be expensive.

Changes by local authority

• East Lothian – Opening hours reduced for winter have been restored.
• Lambeth – £1m proposed cut
• North Lanarkshire – All three mobile libraries to be withdrawn from 3 March.
• Perth and Kinross – Cuts to libraries withdrawn, an additional £1m of funding to save five library facilities for the next two years.
• Salford – Salford Community Leisure in financial difficulty
• Suffolk – Bungay Library refurbished.

National news

• Can book fans turn the page on decline in reading? – BBC. “I can’t help but lament the closure of public libraries which have a very important community function.”
• CIPFA library research reveals rising income not enough in face of cost pressures – Public Finance. “The cost of running libraries remains a “significant challenge” despite income from the service rising by almost a fifth over the past financial year, ” … “revenue from libraries – including grants, overdue charges and fees for reservations and photocopying – rose by 18% to £978.90 per 1,000 people in 2023-24. Library use also continued to rise, with in-person visits per 1,000 people increasing by 13.5% and online visits by almost 37%, while the number of books issued also went up by 0.5%. However, CIPFA warned that the rise in income would not be enough to address cost pressures on library services, with total expenditure increasing by 2% to £12,732 per 1,000 people.” … “The survey also detected a falling off in staffing levels, with the number of paid library employees falling by almost 1.7% per 1,000 people, although volunteer numbers rose by 7%.”
• How public libraries break down barriers to digital inclusion – DCMS. “Public libraries play an important and inclusive role in making sure everyone has the equipment, skills and confidence required to access digital services which is recognised in the Plan.”

• Libraries Connected submits evidence to Parliamentary inquiry into council funding – Libraries Connected. “Libraries Connected has submitted evidence to the Housing, Communities and Local Government (HCLG) Committee’s inquiry looking at whether the local government finance system in England is fit for purpose. The evidence outlines the precarious state of local government finances, and the impact this is having on library services – including closures and cuts to opening hours, staff and book budgets. It argues that the current regime for identifying and responding to financial distress “incentivises short-term savings over long-term investment in communities”.”
• New Literary Foundation announces awards for children’s authors – GLL. “The newly launched GLL Literary Foundation has selected 17 children’s authors from across the UK to receive bursary placements for 2025 worth up to £4,000 each.”
• Public Libraries 2024: Netloan Survey Results – Lorensbergs. Concentrating on public access computers: “Councils are investing in the infrastructure with up to 40% of authorities planning a PC refresh in 2025-26″ … “PC use has remained constant in nearly 60% of libraries, with increases or decreases in approximately 20% of libraries in each case” … “Library footfall and/or event attendance are increasing in nearly 50% of libraries due to a range of factors including extra events, reopening refurbished sites, publicity, extended self-service hours, partnership services inclusion, and face-to-face support for council services”. 109 library authorities took part in the survey.
• Second round of Microgrants announced – Libraries Connected. £1-5k. “The 12 successful projects include a pop-up library at a Traveller site in Bristol, a manga exhibition in Northumberland, singalong sessions in a rural Cornish community and a scheme bringing older people together to play carrom, a tabletop game popular throughout South Asia.”

Suffolk

• Council to manage libraries after contract dispute – BBC. “Suffolk County Council said the charity had proposed unacceptable terms for the new contract and that the libraries would now be “in safe hands”.”
• County to bring libraries back in house – Local Government Chronicle.
• Crucial weeks ahead as Suffolk Libraries fights for future – Ipswich Star. “The chair of trustees of Suffolk Libraries, Sylvia Knights, revealed that supporters and volunteers from across the county had been in touch to express their shock and anger after Monday’s news that the contract would not be renewed.” … “”A lot of our volunteers have been telling us they want to come and support Suffolk Libraries but they’re not prepared to give up their time for the county council.”” … “Suffolk Libraries earns much of its income from other sources, including running prison library services and is also able to tap into other funding streams like Arts Council grants, Ms Knights  said.” … Unison in favour of move back to Council control ” opposed the moves to divest Suffolk Libraries when they were first proposed in 2011.”
• Fears Suffolk County Council can not afford libraries – East Anglian Daily Times. Registration wall. Several people record their worries.
• Libraries boss ‘incredibly shocked, disappointed and frustrated’ over Suffolk County Council decision to take control of service – Suffolk News.
• Libraries to come under Suffolk County Council control once again after negotiations break down – Suffolk News.
• Library charity ‘shocked and frustrated’ after losing £6m-a-year council contract – Third Sector.
• Sign petition to save charity which runs Suffolk’s libraries – East Anglian Daily Times. Registration-wall. “Suffolk County Council wants to take the library service back in-house and abandon the charity that has run it so successfully over the last 12 years. This is a costly disaster in the making.”

“The Library Campaign as always taken the view that public libraries should be run directly by  local authorities in order to ensure accountability. So we welcome the news that the service is being brought back to where it should be. The detail of the failed negotiations to let the IFS carry on is beyond our pay grade so we await with interest the Council’s plans. They say they won’t close any libraries and will put money into book buying. They also claim that the IFS proposed cutting opening hours by 30% and there was concern about the cost of its head office, which it said equated to 33% of annual staffing costs.”

Library Campaign

• Stop Suffolk County Council wrecking our fabulous local libraries – Change. “For the last 12 years our libraries have been successfully run by a charity with Suffolk County Council’s financial support funding just part of the service.  But they are now under threat following a proposed move by the Council. The charity has transformed our libraries into true community hubs offering a wide range of services, particularly relied on by families, children and some of the more vulnerable members of our community. Remarkably, the service now costs £3 million pounds less now than it did in 2011 whilst offering so much more to local people. ” 3822 signed at sign of checking.
• Suffolk County Council to resume control of library service – East Anglian Daily Times.
• Suffolk Libraries plans to ‘fight’ decision to bring libraries back under council control – Rayo.
• Suffolk Libraries reaction to Suffolk County Council decision on future of the library service – Suffolk Libraries. ““We are incredibly shocked, disappointed and frustrated by this afternoon’s announcement by Suffolk County Council. It’s a bolt from the blue and in our opinion, it’s a staggeringly short-sighted decision. “Suffolk Libraries has done an amazing job of running the library service in Suffolk for 12 and a half years under very challenging circumstances.  We have successfully steered the charity to become a recognised pioneer for change within the library sector and we are now regarded as a leading force within the industry. We currently have one of the best run library services in the country which has saved millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money, increased the impact and value of libraries and ultimately made Suffolk a better place to live by offering residents access to a ground-breaking and diverse range of services and support. “Suffolk County Council’s decision will impact everyone in the county and indeed will send out worrying signals to the nation with regard to the future of libraries within the community. Even if you don’t use libraries, we believe the proposed change will be a very inefficient and costly process and the cost to the people of Suffolk is even higher. “We intend to fight this decision and will comment further once we’ve had a chance to fully digest the details from today’s briefing.””
• Suffolk’s 45 libraries to remain open and see new investment as Suffolk County Council plans to take service back in house – Suffolk Council. “an attempt to secure an external provider for a new six-year contract (with the option to extend for up to a further six years) which had to be abandoned due to difficulties in aligning submissions with the service requirements and budgets. ” Open letter to staff. Open letter to the public.

“We appreciate that this may come as a surprise to some, but want to assure you that this is happening to protect our valuable community libraries and the wide-range of services they provide.”

Suffolk Council

International news

• Belgium – Breakdown at Flemish libraries – lending system down – Brussels Times. “Since approximately 9:00 on Saturday morning, a significant number of the nearly 300 Flemish libraries have been unable to lend or return books due to a technical issue with the Wise lending system, according to Cultuurconnect, the organisation that provides the service to Flemish libraries.”
• Canada – CNA joins province’s public libraries as more N.L. groups ditch Musk-owned X platform – CBC. “there has been a drop off in user engagement on X”, “the discourse on the platform has shifted”
  • Book Banning in Canada Is Quiet, Systemic, and More Effective than Ever – Walrus. “Ontario progressives, no less than Florida conservatives, find in “child safety” a warrant to ban books. “
  • Opinion: Public libraries celebrate the freedom to read what you like – Edmonton Journal. “The mission of EPL is: We Share! We share expertise, information, technology, and space with Edmontonians for learning, connecting, creating, discovering, enjoying and enriching communities. “

• Ireland – Clare Libraries To Receive Laptops And iPads As Part Of €100,000 Investment – Clare FM. “This county has received a total allocation of €110,115 under the Libraries Capital Programme while will make new computers, laptops, iPads and other ICT equipment available in all 15 locations countywide.” … “The investment is part of a €1.3 million package and is intended to make libraries more digitally inclusive with a particular focus on young, elderly and disadvantaged people.” [£13m if sized for the UK population – Ed.]
  • Galway Libraries project wins gold at annual LAMA Awards – Galway Daily. “Galway Libraries developed programming that encompassed ‘Science from land to sea’ as the driving theme for programme delivery with workshops, interactive sessions, coding and VR experiences for children of all ages about the importance of marine life, biodiversity and the impact of pollution.”
• Spain/Catalonia – Why are fewer and fewer people going to read in public libraries? – Ara. “The authorities who make decisions on this matter would do well to know that fewer and fewer people are going to public libraries with the intention of reading: what they do is work on their own or a home computer, copy notes from a friend at school, chat – often in a very loud voice – and do what is now called “socialising” in the expression.”
• USA – Relocation of 30,000 Young Adult Books in Louisiana Library Shows Harrowing Impact of Moral Panic Over Obscenity and Vague Laws that Lead to Book Censorship – Pen America.
  • Georgia Senate again tries to expose librarians to legal consequences for giving inappropriate books to kids – Rough Draft.
  • Statement: Removal of access to and modification of data by authorities in the USA – CILIP. “the removal, hiding, and modification of data, research and other information resources by authorities in the USA is already starting to impede the vital work of UK library and other information professionals, as well as researchers and educators.”

Changes by local authority

• Aberdeenshire: Blog: Libraries are a vital support for people on low incomes – Poverty Alliance. “As part of the Taking Action on Rural Poverty project, the Poverty Alliance have been working alongside Aberdeenshire residents who live on a low income in rural parts of the shire to form a citizens panel of people who want to feed into the Council’s decision-making process. The panel is particularly keen to feed into the plans to close 13 libraries across Aberdeenshire, many of them in rural areas.”
• Birmingham – Save Spring Hill Library – Change. “Spring Hill Library is at risk of permanent closure. It was closed ‘temporarily’ for heating repairs in 2022 and Birmingham City Council promised to reopen it as a top priority but now say they can’t afford to. But there is hope. Campaigners have won the right to officially question the cuts to Birmingham’s library services, which have now been halted to allow for public scrutiny.” 73 signatures when checked.
• Blackpool – Library service secures funding to develop pilot with Spot On Lancashire – Blackpool Council. “We are thrilled to announce a partnership with Spot On Lancashire, funded by Libraries Connected and Arts Council England. This spring, three branches of our libraries will host professional performance shows, bringing theatre, and music from Canada and Argentina to the heart of our community.”
• Bolton – Bolton Central Library finalist in The British Book Awards 2025 – Bolton News. “Bolton Central Library has been named a finalist for Library of the Year in the North England category at The British Book Awards 2025.”. Recent ” £4.3 million investment from the Bolton Town Deal, provided by the Department for Levelling Up”
• Bromley – Burnt Ash Library reopens with new children’s space after revamp – News Shopper. “Burnt Ash Library has reopened following a revamp which includes improvements to accessibility and the children’s space. Burnt Ash Library is the latest in a string of Bromley libraries to undergo refurbishments in an £11 million investment to improve libraries across the borough, including West Wickham and Bromley Central Library.”
• Cheshire West and Chester – World Book Day vouchers swap at Cheshire West libraries – Chester Standard. [Yes, that’s me in the photograph – Ed.]
• Cumberland – Hard hats and hardbacks: Carlisle Library reopens, ready for construction to start – Cumberland Council. “Cumberland Council is pleased to announce that Carlisle Library will reopen its doors Monday 3 March, welcoming visitors back while construction work continues. During this phase, the first floor will be open to the public, featuring a fantastic fiction section, while the second floor remains closed for refurbishment. The council reminds visitors that construction will continue for the next 10–12 months, and some noise and disruption should be expected.”
  • ‘Community Hub’ launched at Workington Library to help improve access to services locally – Cumberland Council. “A ‘Community Hub’ designed to improve access to a range of local services in one place has opened in Workington on a pilot basis. The hub, an initiative led by Cumberland Council, is located in Workington Library with the idea being to support residents to access support as early as possible across a number of areas. “
• Devon – Local libraries’ costume swap for World Book Day 2025 – Muddy Stilettoes. 14 libraries.
• East Lothian – Libraries which suffered winter cuts to have hours restored – East Lothian Courier. “Last November, East Lothian Council announced that East Linton, Gullane, Longniddry, Ormiston and Port Seton libraries would have “temporary winter opening hours” applied until February 28, drastically decreasing the amount of time the facilities were open each week.” … “Now, East Lothian Council has confirmed that the cuts will be reversed, with new opening hours starting from Saturday.”
• East Riding – Libraries to host World Book Day costume swaps – BBC. “East Riding Libraries said, although it would host the swap scheme, it had no responsibility for the costumes but each one would be checked by staff for current EU fire safety labels”
• Essex – How to save libraries and what to do with them next – East Anglia Bylines. A look at the successful campaign against library cuts in Essex. “Residents can be grateful that libraries are evolving to stay popular and relevant. Essex did well to keep its full range of libraries.”
• Gateshead – Blaydon Library final to be refurbished as part of Transforming Libraries project – Gateshead Council. “Blaydon Library will temporarily close next month as the final of our four libraries being upgraded with Government funding. In 2024, both Crawcrook and Pelaw libraries re-opened with fresh-look facilities, and earlier this year, Birtley was temporarily closed as the third council library to undergo the same refurbishment works as part of the ‘Transforming Libraries’ project. Now, Blaydon is the fourth and final library to be refurbished”
• Hampshire – Winchester Library finalist for library of the year award – Hampshire Chronicle. “This recognition highlights the dedication and innovation of our team, particularly Library Team Assistant Rebecca Leadley, who on her own initiative, set up the Read Aloud program which has formed a key part of the recognition”
• Havering – Community Opposed And Unpopular HRA Budget That Closes Libraries Barely Scrapes Through By One Vote. – Havering Daily. “The £204million budget for 2025/26 will see council tax shoot up by 4.99%, council rents increase by 2.7%, and the closure of three much loved libraries.” …”Labour, Conservative and independent residents’ group councillors all proposed alternative budgets they said would prevent the closure of libraries in South Hornchurch, Gidea Park and Harold Wood.” …”Their closure will save the council around £300,000 a year – and avoid around £850,000 in repairs – though opposition councillors say the move will harm communities.”
  • Havering Conservatives Alternative Budget That Proposes To Save Libraries And Increase Police Officers Is Voted Down By HRA – Havering Daily. HRA is the ruling party in the borough: “Havering Residents Association”. ““When the HRA tell us they have no choice, clearly they have. These are political choices they want to make. We choose to save the libraries and put more police officers on our street.””
  • Labour Councillors Bid To Save Libraries Rejected By HRA – Havering Daily. “the administration of the Council refused to accept a proposal by the Labour councillors to keep South Hornchurch and Harold Wood Libraries open, at no additional cost to the council.”
• Hertfordshire – Harpenden Library reopens after ‘safety assessments’ – Hertfordshire Advertiser. “a spokesperson for Herts County Council libraries revealed it was shut due to “leaks over the weekend”
• Hull – Telecoms firm calls time on library in a phone box – BBC. Company says putting books in phone box is a fire risk.
  • Library that lends just about anything needs cash – BBC. “The Hull-based library offers everything from tools to toys. But it needs to raise £7,000 to pay for its premises and other costs.”
• Lambeth – Lambeth denies ‘burying’ a £1 million package of savings to libraries in 10 page spreadsheet – Southwark News. “Claire Holland, leader of Lambeth Council, said she was ‘proud’ of how ‘open and transparent’ the Labour authority was being about proposed reductions to the £4.6 million libraries service budget.” … “The council’s Liberal Democrat opposition said it was ‘concerned’ that the £1 million planned savings to the libraries service weren’t included in an earlier list scrutinised by councillors in December 2024.”
  • More than 1,000 sign petition against library cuts of £1 million as decision is “rubber stamped” by Lambeth’s Labour cabinet – and council leader Claire Holland says: “We need to be open with residents” – News From Crystal Palace.
  • Residents rally outside town hall against £1m cuts to library budget – London News Online. “Lambeth Unison and Friends of Lambeth Libraries took to the street outside Lambeth council’s building in Brixton Hill, holding T-shirts with printed messages reading “Don’t Steal Our Libraries, Lambeth”.” Measures include shaving £1million from library funding across the borough, almost a quarter of the £4.7million current budget for the service.

“There’s already kids sitting on the floor to study most weekends at Brixton library. Anyone in favour of cuts should go and explain to them why it’s the right thing to do. We need an expanded library service, not a reduced one.”

Lambeth – Ben Rymer

• Lincolnshire – Council investment to create business hub at Grantham Library – Lincolnshire Council. “The exciting transformation will see a new IT suite equipped with business software added, as well as drop-in working zones kitted out with acoustic booths and ‘bubbles’ – the perfect place to host interviews and online meetings. Facilities have been designed with flexibility in mind, meaning the spaces can be used as additional study space for library users, as well as by local education providers, community groups, and more.” … “Grantham is the third library in Lincolnshire to benefit from the addition of business hubs”
  • Borrowers paid almost £16,000 in overdue fines to Lincolnshire libraries last year – with Grantham raising the most cash and Bourne the least – Lincs Online. “£15,919.42 was raised via late returns, although this was lower than the £17,085.12 secured in 2023, a freedom of information request showed.”
• Moray / Perth and Kinross – Councils halt plans to close libraries – BBC. “Perth & Kinross Council announced a 9.5% council tax increase and said the rise made it possible to assign an additional £1m of funding to save five library facilities for the next two years.” … “In Moray, a number of alternative provisions will be considered after the council halted the plans to shut seven out of its 11 libraries.”
• North East Lincolnshire – Civic society’s fears over future of Grimsby Central Library building – Grimsby Telegraph. “Members of a society committed to making North East Lincolnshire a better place to live are calling for a full restoration of the Grimsby Central Library building and clarification on the Council’s plans for the libraries in Grimsby and Cleethorpes. As North East Lincolnshire Council continues to “look at options” on how the building will be used in the future, the Grimsby, Cleethorpes and District Civic Society has issued a statement to express their concerns.”
• Northern Ireland – Redeveloped Fivemiletown Library officially opened by Minister Gordon Lyons – Impartial Reporter. “the library has been rebuilt and extended, with its revamp including the installation of energy-efficient heating and lighting measures.”, sensory garden, flexible meeting space.
• North Lanarkshire – Council confirms they are scrapping a library service – Glasgow Times. “North Lanarkshire Council has decided to shut down the mobile library service. The three mobile libraries will be removed from service starting Monday, March 3.”
• North Northamptonshire – Contractor chosen for listed library roof repair – BBC. “The roof of Kettering library and art gallery in Northamptonshire was damaged during heavy rain in 2023. It will be restored by using Collyweston slate from the county by local firm Messenger. North Northamptonshire Council earmarked almost £7m for the repairs.”
• North Yorkshire – Mobile Libraries Offer Novel Approach To Bus Journeys – Yorkshire Times. “Harrogate International Festivals has once again teamed up with Transdev, which runs the Harrogate Bus Company, to bring a whole world of books to bus passengers. Over the past few years, the arts charity has provided more than 1,000 novels to create mobile ‘libraries’ onboard Transdev’s 36 buses travelling on the Leeds-Harrogate-Ripon route.”
• Rutland – Rutland County Councillor pleads with colleagues ‘not to be lean and mean’ over future of Ryhall Library – Lincs Online. “The cabinet of six will make a final decision in April about whether to close the library, as had been recommended by officers in January, or to keep the doors open.” … “The authority had set aside £70,000 to make improvements but has said estimated costs are closer to £250,000 which it cannot afford. Like most local authorities the council has to make millions of pounds of savings over the next few years to make sure its accounts balance.”
  • Campaigners continue fight for library – BBC. “Campaigners trying to protect their village library in Rutland have said the county council’s budget – just approved – offers them no assurance about its future. The annual budget, which included a council tax rise of 4.99%, was agreed by a majority of Rutland county councillors at a meeting on Thursday night. But the future of Ryhall library remains unclear. The authority says a consultation on its use is yet to conclude and plans will be drawn up after that point. Rutland County Council has planned a programme, using £950,000 of national grant cash to develop libraries into new “Living Well Centres”.”
• Salford – Council issues statement on cuts to Salford’s libraries and leisure centres amid finance problems – Manchester Evening News. “Salford Community Leisure (SCL) – the firm which runs sites across the city including Salford Museum and Art Gallery, Salford Sports Village, and a number of libraries – is struggling to keep up with rising costs of wages and inflation according to a new report from the council. The ‘significant’ problems stem from staffing and running costs going up, with recent pay awards costing the company £2.3m over the last three years.” … “Salford City Council today agreed to bail out the company with a one-off payment of £350,000 to cover management costs this year, but more cash could be needed as soon as next year to the tune of £1.5m.” … “SCL’s reserves – cash set aside for a rainy day – have been ‘wiped out’ to cover the rising running costs, the report stated, leaving the firm in a ‘critical’ situation.”
• Suffolk – Bungay Library improvement work nearing completion – Suffolk Libraries. “The project has been carried out by local builders, Sprake and Tyrell, thanks to funding from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) via East Suffolk Council, £39,000 raised by The Friends of Bungay Library with support from local charities, in addition to £70,000 from Suffolk County Council.”
• Swindon – Promoting Goan culture through books – The Goan. “As many as 55 books on Goa’s culture and history are being dispatched from Goa to Swindon as part of this project.”
• Thurrock – Thurrock’s top ten most-borrowed library books revealed – Thurrock Council. All are children’s books.
• Warrington – ‘Unequal’ funding is creating a ‘town of two halves’ Warrington councillors say – Cheshire Live. “dismay at the budget’s ‘unequal’ parking charges and the proposed removal of staff from libraries in the south, which he described as ‘partisan politics’.”
• Warwickshire – ‘We are thrilled that Rugby has been recognised’: Library makes competition finals – Warwickshire World. “Staff at Rugby, Stratford-upon-Avon and Alcester libraries are delighted to be selected as finalists for Library of the Year at The British Book Awards 2025.”
  • A quicker and more user-friendly online experience is coming soon to Warwickshire Libraries – Warwickshire Council. “The new library management system will include an improved user experience for customers with several new features, including a new library app which will enable customers to use a digital library card, making the issuing of items and renewals much more efficient. From Wednesday 9 April, Warwickshire Libraries will enter a 14-day changeover period to prepare for the new library management system. The transition to all libraries operating on the new system will begin to take effect after the Easter weekend.”
• Warwickshire Libraries to host World Book Day® community token exchange hub to help reach more young readers – Warwickshire Council.
• Worcestershire – Worcestershire libraries to welcome authors to discuss books – Kidderminster Shuttle.
• York – Our ten most wanted books – York Explore. “Each month we will publish a list of our top ten most popular books on our website and we are asking you to consider buying or donating a copy. Please take a look at the list by clicking the button below. You will find details of how you can buy a copy for us or donate your own copy once you have finished reading it.”
  • York alternative budgets would save libraries from £600K cuts and drop ‘bin tax’ – York Mix. “Liberal Democrat opposition leader Cllr Nigel Ayre said his party’s proposals which include scrapping £600,000 cuts to the contract to run York’s libraries would help protect the city’s most vulnerable.”

Editorial

There’s a classic progression that happens when a council announces library service cuts:

1. Cuts are announced, normally involving lots of library closures
2. Protests against these cuts occur
3. Council reduces cuts, often changing closures to being run by volunteers or reductions in hours.
4. Cuts happen, with sometimes the protesters being co-opted as volunteers.

And, sadly, if you have stuck around the library scene long enough, as I have, then you see the cycle repeating. So, this week, Aberdeenshire is at (3); Perth & Kinross, Rutland, Coventry and Newport is at (2); Clackmannanshire is at (1, turning into 2). Meanwhile, Birmingham appears to be at (3) but when you look, the actual budgetary reduction is the same as before so basically no reductions have been made other than in their manner. The city has gone through the cycle a few times before so the heady days of the Library of Birmingham opening a decade ago appears to be well and truly gone. It’s notable as well that if a Scottish library cut is announced then the public protest, especially national Scottish protest, appears to be higher than South of the border. And heaven knows what’s going on in North Northamptonshire. This was one of the two councils created from the wreckage of Northamptonshire, and it looks like there’s still more destruction happening.

Right, now the good news. Thurrock has increased its opening hours due to Freeport funding, and Arts Council England funding is kicking in with a few places being currently refurbished. I’m also liking the report on eBooks, although its conclusions appear fairly self-evident. Anyone who has had to consider whether to buy a library eAudiobook or eBook for £50 or even £70 will know how painful digital lending is and it needs to improve, and this report will hopefully help do that.

Being less parochial, it’s sad to learn about the reduction in public library provision in Denmark but good to hear about things in Malaysia and to salivate over pictures of Swiss libraries. Hurricane Trump has started to hit US public libraries, with fears national funding will be stopped and what appears to be a purely revenge-driven sacking of the chief of National Archives. I also noticed a week ago that state cases against attempts to censor public library books have been entirely dropped. The storm is still growing there and we are likely to see more wreckage for quite a while to come.

Changes by local authority

• Aberdeenshire – 12 out of 13 closures, at least temporarily, stopped, although some libraries may be taken over by volunteers, Boddam Library will be closed, some others may also close.
• Birmingham – £2.285m cut: Overall library opening hours to be cut by one third, 7 libraries to be outsourced, 38 jobs to be lost.
• Clackmannanshire – 4 out of 5 libraries under threat
• Peterborough – Bretton Library floorspace to be reduced by one third.
• Thurrock – Tilbury Library opening hours increased due to FreePort funding.

National news

• In a world of overwhelming choice, I love the whittled-down book selection at my local street library – Guardian. “the library is the same – the masses of books too frequently inspires inertia” but a street library reduces choice and inertia. “I still buy the latest releases; I still use my library card. But there is something nice in the quietness of the local little library”
• Invest in libraries, invest in communities: the cost of cuts is too high – North Edinburgh News. Open letter from Alison Nolan, chief executive officer of the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC). “Did you know that over the past decade, 53 public libraries across Scotland have closed their doors for good – without replacement?” … “No other community asset can deliver the vast economic and social benefits that a thriving public library service can, and so we would urge decision-makers to prioritise investment in their communities.” see also Library chief in plea to prevent council cuts` – We Love Stornoway.
• The National Archives to establish new hub for community-led research in the cultural heritage sector – Wired Gov. “This important work will connect our museums, archives, libraries and galleries more closely to the communities around them. Thanks to this grant from the AHRC, we’ll be able to support outreach work, so that more people are able to enjoy our cultural history.””
• Report: cheaper ebooks for libraries could “revolutionise the promotion of reading” – Libraries Connected. Arts Council England funded report. Increasing eBook lending increases access to reading [fairly obviously – Ed.], prolific book borrowers are also prolific book buyers. Call for more flexible licensing to allow eborrowing for book groups, author talks and literary festivals. Just 7% of registered library users are ebook borrowers.
• Val McDermid praises inspirational libraries ahead of campaign launch – National. “The author, who is best known for her Wire In The Blood series and Karen Pirie novels, was visiting the library in Kirkcaldy Galleries ahead of the launch of the Love Libraries campaign. The campaign, which begins on February 14 and runs until October, is designed to encourage more people to join libraries and make use of what they have to offer, and focuses on the benefits librarians bring to communities throughout the country.”

International news

• Denmark – The necessary nearness – an ode to bookmobiles – Christian Lauersen. A look at Danish mobile libraries. ” Currently, there are 15 bookmobiles in Denmark, down from 52 in 2000. The same trend can be seen in the number of library branches, where there were just over 1,000 branches in the 1980s, a number that Statistics Denmark reports has dropped to 420 in 2023.” … “in 2009, there were just over 13,000 weekly opening hours with staffed personnel, but this number had dropped to 9,400 weekly hours by 2023.”
  • Next Library Pilot Projects – The Changemaker Award 2025 – Next Library. “We’re seeking projects that ignite innovation and bring the Next Library concept to life between events. Whether it’s a brand-new idea or something you’ve already been experimenting with, it should have the potential to scale and inspire change in other libraries. Your idea should focus on practical, actionable change with a meaningful impact on your library’s community—something that can also be scaled or replicated across countries.”
• Malaysia – Public libraries now modern knowledge hubs – Sun. “Many centres feature cafes, lounges, activity spaces, auditoriums, gyms and jogging tracks: Librarians Association”
• Pakistan – Libraries fail to promote literary engagement – Express Tribune. “According to sources of the Express Tribune, out of 41 districts in Punjab, just 11 libraries are scattered across seven districts including Lahore, Sheikhupura, Okara, Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh and Bahawalpur alongside 100 e-libraries.”
• Switzerland – The most beautiful libraries in Switzerland – Swiss Info. “Libraries are thriving in Switzerland: the GGG City Library in Basel recorded over two million loans last year.” Those shown appear not to be public libraries but are rather nice.
• USA – National Library Lovers Month is a call to action by all Americans who value freedom – Davidson Local. “he Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), an independent federal agency that is a primary funder for 123,000 public libraries and 35,000 museums in all 50 states and U.S.territories, has been called “unessential” by our current administration, and is threatened with elimination or with far-reaching cuts to staff, services, and funding sources.” … “Libraries are also under threat by organizations, such as Moms for Liberty (M4L), a well- funded organization bent on removing books and materials they consider unacceptable” … “I still love my books. But these days, loving the library means speaking out, making certain our leaders understand that the heartbeat of our American freedoms is our ability to learn, to know, to explore.”

• Barnes & Noble will open 60 new bookstores in 2025, breaking last year’s record as bookstore revival ramps up – Fast Company. “2025 marks a new era for Barnes & Noble and other bookstores thanks to a few factors, including digital fatigue, TikTok’s #BookTok, the loneliness epidemic, and a rise in so-called third spaces”
• Trump dismisses head of the National Archives – NBC. “President Donald Trump dismissed the head of the National Archives, a White House official said Friday night, following through on a vow last month to change the leadership atop the agency, which was involved in the criminal case that had accused Trump of mishandling classified documents.” Colleen Shogan says ““This evening, President Trump fired me. No cause or reason was cited.”. Archives had provided some documents to lawyers in cases against Trump.

Local news by authority

• Aberdeenshire – Aberdeenshire libraries to be saved as community groups rally to protect local services – Aberdeen Live. “Residents were quick to take action after Aberdeenshire Council’s unexpected decision to close 13 libraries was announced in November with five petitions set up which collectively gathered thousands of signatures.”. 12 out of 13 closures stopped, although some libraries may be taken over by volunteers, Boddam Library will be closed.
• Bedford – Year of Reading: We meet Library Officer Carly Spearing – Bedford Council. “We recently began a dyslexia-friendly section and we’ll be checking the success of that, there are large print books, digital books that people can borrow online, a growing selection of graphic novels and manga, and our choice of books in foreign languages is bigger than ever.”
• Birmingham – Campaigners to fight on as library cuts approved – BBC. “The city council plans to save £2.285m annually from next year by reducing overall library opening times by a third and outsourcing the running of seven sites. Jim Wells, from the Friends of Erdington Library, said his group would still be “campaigning very strongly” to get a cut in opening times reversed.”
• The ‘bankrupt’ Labour council spending £283m on gold-plated pensions – Telegraph. “Rubbish in the streets, library doors slammed shut and vital support services decimated from cradle to grave. These are just some of the symptoms of a tough period for the residents of England’s second largest city.”. Several library mentions, with the blame for cuts going to the council, not national cuts.
• Cheshire East / Cheshire West and Chester – Centres aim to boost interest in county’s history – BBC. “While construction is taking place at both sites, libraries across Cheshire will be providing access to local history books and maps as well as free online access to family history websites.”
• Clackmannanshire – MSP takes stand against Clackmannanshire library closures – Alloa Advertiser. Green MSP “has taken a stand in the Scottish Parliament against the planned closure of four out of Clackmannanshire’s five libraries.” … “could include closing Alva and Tullibody libraries.”
• Coventry – Residents slam plans to move Coventry libraries as crime fears raised – Coventry Telegraph. “Children could be at risk from organised crime and people turned away from services if Coventry libraries are moved, residents have claimed. Campaigners also slammed council “vanity projects” and called plans “absurd” at a meeting this week. Hundreds have called for the council to scrap plans to relocate four city libraries: Holbrooks, Coundon, Canley and Bell Green. Locals fear staff and resources will be lost if the services are forced to share space in family and dementia “hubs” and a leisure centre.”
• Cumberland – Shelf life extended: Library furniture finds a new home – Cumberland Council. “As part of the £3.3 million Carlisle Library transformation, Cumberland Council has partnered with The Rebuild Site CIC to donate old furniture and equipment for repurposing in local community construction projects. In line with its commitment to sustainability and supporting local communities, Cumberland Council has donated surplus library furniture to The Rebuild Site CIC.”
• Derby – Derby Libraries’ £130k National Lottery Heritage Fund to ‘increase visitors, engage youngsters in history’ – Derby World. “The money will fund a two-year project at Derby Local Studies and Family History Library to encourage greater use of the library and create a fun way for young people to engage with their local heritage.”
• Dorset – Sturminster Newton Library to close for improvement works – Dorset Council. “This closure is necessary to carry out essential building work in preparation for the installation of new technology, “Extended Access,” which will enable library members to use the facilities beyond the staffed opening hours. The “Extended Access” service is set to launch later this spring.”
• Enfield – Save libraries and street cleaning in Enfield – Socialist Party. “with a Labour government in place, instead of demanding the resources to reinstate those much-needed services, they are doubling down – library cuts of £630,000, and a proposal to close eight libraries.”
• Glasgow – ‘Gies Back Our Books!’ – campaigners in Glasgow demand local library is reopened – Herald Scotland. “The ‘Gies Back Our Books’ campaign, which was launched in November 2024, has been “driven by the frustration of waiting, waiting and waiting some more for any sort of communication” from either the council or its arms-length culture body, Glasgow Life, about the future of library provision in their community.”
• Havering – Closing Libraries Is A Crime-Any Councillor Voting For Any Library To Be Closed Is A Cultural Vandal – Havering Daily. “They are stealing from the impoverished parent who needs a safe, free educational activity for their kids during the school holidays. They don’t want to get on a bus, they want to be able to walk there because it’s free and they are finding the cost-of-living crisis a nightmare.”
• Isle of Wight – Isle of Wight library to close for several days due to work – Isle of Wight County Press. Arts Council England funding: The funding will allow Ryde Library to enhance its children’s library and install an accessible toilet.
• Knowsley – Free family fun in Knowsley’s Libraries this half term – Knowsley News. “oin storyteller Robin Simpson for a magical reading of the Gingerbread Man, with puppets, silly songs, and the chance to make your own gingerbread man puppet to take home.”
• Leeds – Storytelling festival launches in Leeds – BBC. “The Leeds Storytelling Festival is described by the council as “a city-wide celebration of storytelling designed especially for families and children”. The event is a partnership between Leeds Libraries, theatre company Wrongsemble and the Livewire Poetry group and runs from Friday until 8 March.”
• Newport – Leader of Newport City Council handed massive petition – South Wales Argus. “The petition, carrying 4126 signatures, called for the Council to keep Caerleon Town Hall and Caerleon Library open.”

“It’s now more than seven months since there was a fire at Oundle’s public library and the building only reopened to offer a reduced service on 30 September after there had been quite a public outcry at the delay. All these months later and still there is no sign of that situation changing because the building still has no IT. This means: No computers are available for customers to access the internet; No tablets for visitors to use to access e-library services (although this seems to be a county-wide issue now); Staff working on small and inadequate laptop computers; No self-service units for customers to easily borrow or return books.

Last year’s fire (12 July 2024) was originally said to have started in the IT cabinet in the staff room and the room’s contents were destroyed. The building’s electricity and heating system have been repaired but the work to restore the staff room cannot happen until someone decides where and how the IT will be installed. It’s a Catch-22 situation and until decisions are made and expenditure is approved the public library remains in limbo, only able to provide a partial service.

Oundle Library serves a large rural area across North Northants, yet the Library Service and North Northamptonshire Council expect residents to travel to Corby or Kettering to access computer services. And despite customers asking time and again about when the IT will be restored at the library, no-one is prepared to give a date or even tell people what progress is being made. The lack of information and engagement with residents is startling, and many people are beginning to wonder (again) if this is a signal that the library will never reopen to offer a full service or that this is a prelude to its opening hours being reduced. What makes the situation worse is that the leader of North Northants Council, Jason Smithers, is the councillor for Oundle Ward.”

North Northamptonshire – Email received

• North Tyneside – World Book Day 2025: Hundreds of Free Books on offer for Children in North Tyneside – North Tyneside Council. “North Shields and Wallsend Community Hubs and Libraries will be official token exchange hubs, giving away hundreds of books to encourage children to read.” … “To add to the celebrations, North Shields Library will host a special ‘meet the author’ event for local schools, featuring Jack Jackman, author of Maisie vs Antarctica.”
• Northern Ireland – Sight and hearing information points launched at libraries across Mid Ulster Council area – Northern Ireland World. Deafblind UK and Libraries NI “are introducing dedicated information points in libraries across Mid Ulster, linking people living with sensory loss to vital resources and guidance.”
• Perth and Kinross – John Swinney backs fight to save Perthshire libraries – Courier. “The First Minister says SNP-run Perth and Kinross Council could use additional Holyrood funding to invest in closure-threatened libraries.” … “The First Minister said he “stands firmly” with the Save Our Rural Libraries campaigners. And he is suggesting Perth and Kinross Council use the funding boost it’s about to receive from the Scottish Government to invest in library services.”
• Peterborough – Street-cleaning and libraries staff reject pay offer – BBC. “About 80% of GMB Union members at Peterborough Limited, which provides services including street cleaning and libraries, turned down the latest offer. Union regional organiser Gordon White said the salary was less than the Real Living Wage, of £12.60 an hour, and members felt “unloved and unappreciated”.” … “The company is wholly owned by the council and its services also include museums and leisure centres.”
  • Library group calls on council to bring in experts – BBC. “the Friends of Woodston Library group said the council did not have the “resources or experience” to carry out the assessment in house.” … “Woodston Library and others locations remain on the council’s community assets review, which lists buildings that could be closed, sold or repurposed.”
  • Plans to cut library size recommended for approval – BBC. “Plans to cut the size of a library so it can double as a dementia resource centre have been recommended for approval. Peterborough City Council wants to convert Bretton Library in the Cresset Centre to accommodate the facility, which needs a base as the authority is selling its current building. Campaigners have said the library would no longer be fit for purpose if its floor space is reduced.”

• Rutland – Rutland County Council starts consultation on future of Ryhall Library – Lincs Online. “Ryhall Parish Council and a new campaign group have joined forces and want to explore ways they could take over the building as a community run venture and have been critical of the way the Liberal Democrat authority have been handling things. But now the authority has said a consultation will begin next week to explore ‘alternative options for delivering library services in Ryhall.’” see also Children make banners to help save Ryhall Library from closure – Lincs Online.
• Stockport – Family fun this half-term holiday in Stockport – Stockport Council. Silent discos, crafts.
• Suffolk – Opinion: How can Suffolk Libraries survive council reform? – East Anglian Daily Times. Subscription-wall.
  • Chance to have say on plans to improve library – East Anglian Daily Times. “People are being asked for their views on proposed improvements to Great Cornard Library. Suffolk Libraries is conducting a public consultation on plans to redesign and improve the children’s library and reception area.”
• Thurrock – 500 local people enjoy Tilbury Library open day – Thurrock Council. “More than 500 people joined the fun at a special event celebrating new extended opening hours for Tilbury Library. Thanks to funding from Thames FreePort, Tilbury Library is now open six days a week, with extended hours on Tuesday and Thursday.”
• West Sussex – VR project set up for library service’s centenary – BBC. “West Sussex Library Service’s centenary project, titled The Library of Possibilities and Wonder, is aiming to offer an “immersive adventure”, transporting people into a world of virtual books.”

Editorial

It’s worth bearing in mind what the fears for public libraries were back slightly more than a decade ago. There were people seriously thinking that there would not be British libraries in 2025, due to deep cuts in council budget and, perhaps even more worryingly, the advent of eBooks and the continuing impact of the digital revolution, not least the Internet. Well, the worst did not happen. The public library sector is still very much around. But it has changed. Printed books are still vitally important but the information side is now not a matter of necessity to many but rather more akin to a leisure choice. Their role of the building is changing, has always been changing, and is now more about events, groups, study spaces and, in some areas, council and other information/advice. Austerity did indeed hit, and hit hard, but somehow public libraries survived.

So, now we’re in 2025, we can be fairly that libraries are still going to be around in 2040. There will be change, some hard to stomach, some of the rest of it wonderful, but libraries will still be around. And I’m very glad of that. But, it’s going to be tough. When even the Greens – as they have done in Bristol – are proposing library cuts then we know it’s going to be hard. When even Labour continues with Austerity, we know it’s going to a challenge. But we are still here, serving and changing and sometimes even growing. And for that, we should be grateful and, just perhaps, a little bit optimistic.

Please email ianlibrarian at live dot co dot uk with your thoughts, views and comments

Changes by local authority

• Bridgend – Maesteg children’s library refurbished.
• Croydon – Opening hours increased.
• Haringey – Staff shortages lead to temporary closures and reduced opening hours
• Rutland – Ryhall Library to close due to lack of funds to bring library up to standard, consultation
• Westminster – Two “mini-hub” opened at Victoria and Channing Cross libraries in 2024,

National news

• £4,000 competition for friends groups – Library Campaign. “Could your Friends group use a £400 grant? We are celebrating our 40th birthday, and a recent bequest, by setting aside £4,000 to award to 10 groups that have good ideas to share. This might be campaigning and publicity, or it might be the many extra activities you contribute to library services that are not in crisis… In our experience, Friends groups don’t blow their own trumpets enough. We want to encourage you to do so. We are not asking for elaborate presentations – just enough to convey the necessary information. We know how busy you are.”
• Culture Secretary: Scotland’s library closures are a ‘concern for everybody’ – Scotsman. “Angus Robertson, Cabinet Secretary for Scotland, said the country’s network must be “supported and protected” but added that work was required to keep services relevant to communities amid falling visitor numbers and the changing way information was received.”
• Discounted Quick Reads on Sale Now – Reading Agency. Until 7 February.
• Fewer than half of parents think Reception pupils should know how to use books – Independent.
• Innovation Gathering 2025 – Libraries Connected. Tuesday 18 March, 10:00 – 16:00, The Studio, Birmingham. £60.

Invitation to Participate in an Anonymous Survey on Homeless Users in Public Libraries – I am writing to invite all public library staff to take part in an anonymous survey exploring the experiences and perspectives of public library staff in the UK regarding homeless users in public libraries. The findings from this survey will contribute to the research for an upcoming book, Public Libraries and Homelessness, which aims to shed light on this important topic and highlight the role of libraries in supporting vulnerable populations.

Your responses will remain entirely anonymous. Completing the survey should take approximately15 minutes. When participating, you will have the option to enter a prize draw for a chance to win one of two £15 Amazon vouchers. Your insights as a library professional are invaluable, and your participation would help ensure a diverse and representative understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this area. To participate, please click the link: https://forms.gle/1dVF5SHNA6CXQfA87

• The importance of public libraries for older adults: Supporting wellbeing later in life – CILIPS. ” research demonstrates that book reading during late adulthood has the potential to improve cognitive functioning …”
• “Join discussions on practical and esoteric issues in your field” – Apply for a position at IFLA – CILIP. “CILIP is offering members from the UK the opportunity to put themselves forward for 800+ roles across 50+ committees and groups at the International Federation of Library Associations & Institutions (IFLA) 2025 elections.”
• Librarians Change Lives – Bodleian Libraries. Tuesday 18 March, 5-7.30pm, Oxford. “This event celebrates and considers the current status of the profession of librarians at a time of great change and challenge to librarians and libraries worldwide. It forms part of the national #LibrariesChangeLives campaign, also marking the 175th anniversary of the 1850 Public Libraries Act.”
• National Library of Scotland unveils ‘landmark’ centenary programme – Herald. “Now in its 100th year, the National Library will use its centenary as a platform to celebrate and promote libraries of all kinds, beginning with a nationwide campaign encouraging people to support and champion their local libraries around Valentine’s Day.”
• Network Meeting – Buildings – Leases, Agreements & Licences – Community Libraries Network. Zoom, Tue 25 Feb 2025 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM. For volunteer libraries. “We will be focusing in on Buildings – Leases, Agreements & Licences and will be joined by a panel of representatives from community libraries who have recently been involved in negotiating and securing leases and agreements for their library buildings.”
• Pensioners missing meals, sheltering in libraries and more depressed due to benefit cuts – Morning Star. Unite survey.
• Picture books that encourage resilience – Book Trust. Useful list.
• Seeking: Volunteer Librarians – Wilbur and Niso Smith Foundation. “We are seeking volunteer librarians interested in reading some of the latest adventure novels to join the review panel for the 2025 Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize, Best Published Novel award”
• Tell me about your library – Facet Publishing. “Libraries hold a special place in the British public imagination. This book, signed with Facet Publishing, is a brief history of libraries in the UK. It examines how such an ideal was created and has been translated into the spaces, systems, staff, and books that are found in our local communities.” … ” seeking contributions from anyone who works in a public-facing library service, or from anyone who uses or has previously used library services.”
• Val McDermid and Damian Barr urge Scottish councils to halt library closures – Guardian. “The writers Val McDermid and Damian Barr have urged councils in Scotland to abandon plans to close more than 20 public libraries, with the worst affected in rural areas.” … “McDermid and Barr, the ambassadors for a campaign to promote public libraries led by the National Library of Scotland, said closures could have a devastating effect on the country’s cultural future and on equalities.” see also Val McDermid: ‘Libraries open windows that let us all fly’ – Scotsman.

“Libraries are like the NHS: they should be ringfenced, they should be protected in perpetuity, because we understand that their value is not just on the day that somebody goes, their value is for ever when you open a book and you learn something about yourself or about the world.”

Damian Barr

• Waterstones CEO James Daunt: ‘We have stubbornly held on in places like Middlesbrough long after M&S left’ – Telegraph. “I was a nice middle-class child who was taken down to Caledonian Road library to pick out my books from a very early age and had my nose in a book from the moment I could read,” he says. “Clearly if one is privileged enough to grow up, in my case with library books, it helps foster a love for reading.”
• Why you should be planning your nomination for the Information Literacy Award – Infolit. “Nominations for the 2025 Information Literacy Award open in the new year. The award is open to all practitioners, researchers and academics working in the information literacy field in the UK, both individuals and teams, and recognises excellent practice. “
• Youth Engagement Network Pilot Report – ASCEL. “The aim of the project is to connect library services from across the country with local children and young people from marginalised groups, who do not currently engage with their library, to shape activities that will encourage younger generations to access libraries.”

International news

• Australia – Library promotions – Public Libraries Connect. “”How do you library?” is a statewide campaign that aims to expand visitation and encourage deeper engagement and participation at libraries across Queensland by highlighting the diversity of services, programs, resources and surprising things people can do at their local library.  A suite of editable and generic assets for the How do you library? campaign features bold type, colours and playful illustrations that highlight the diversity of services, programs, resources and surprising things people are able to do at their library. “
• Kenya / USA – Sundance Doc ‘How to Build a Library’ and How the Story of Saving One Nairobi Library ‘Can Be the Blueprint’ for All of Africa — and the World – Variety. ” Maia Lekow and Christopher King’s “How to Build a Library,” which follows two Kenyan woman’s mission to restore a public library in the country’s capital, Nairobi.”
• Syria – ‘We were raided regularly’: with Assad gone, banned books return to Syria’s shelves – Guardian. “One book that was never banned was George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four, despite the glaring parallels with the Assad regime’s totalitarian security apparatus. Taja’s own theory as to why the novel was allowed to be sold was simple: “They wanted us to imagine that they had the same capabilities, to watch us wherever we went.””
• USA – Department of Education dismisses book ban complaints, ends guidance – ABC News. US Government ceases investigating book bans. “The Trump administration’s Department of Education states that the books were targeted because school districts and parents “have established common-sense processes by which to evaluate and remove age-inappropriate materials.”

• Amid book bans and new technologies, pondering the future of libraries – WXXI News. “This hour, we discuss the present and future of American libraries with the outgoing (and longtime) director of the Rochester Public Library and Monroe County Library System, along with her successor and their colleagues.”
• “Civil rights fight of our time’: new film explores the battle over US libraries” – Guardian. “A Sarah Jessica Parker-produced documentary on the brave librarians fighting a wave of rightwing book bans has sparked conversation at Sundance”

Local news by authority

• Barnsley – Swish new libraries for two Dearne communities – Rotherham Advertiser. “Both have been subjected to improvement and modernisation work under Barnsley Council’s Libraries Refurbishment Programme.”
  • Goldthorpe Library to welcome back visitors next week following an exciting refurbishment – Barnsley Council. “the library has been transformed into a modern and flexible space. For families and our youngest visitors, the library now features an expanded children’s area with a sensory hideaway, soft seating and accessible book displays. For adults, new seating has been installed to sit and enjoy a book or join one of the library’s regular groups, either in the library space or the revamped first-floor meeting rooms. We’ve also installed areas designed for people to work and study.”
• Bath and North East Somerset – First Festival of Libraries in B&NES – Bath and North East Somerset Council. “Afternoon tea with authors, creative writing workshops and drama performances are among the exciting line-up of events for Bath & North East Somerset Council’s first-ever Festival of Libraries next month.”
• Bradford – Town’s Victorian library to be refurbished – BBC. “lkley Library will close on 17 February for the work to begin and is expected to be closed for several weeks. The refurbishment will include redecoration, new flooring, movable shelving and a fully accessible public toilet created and a kitchenette installed, Bradford Council said.”
• Bridgend – Maesteg Town Hall’s innovative new children’s library redefines spaces for young minds – Wales 247. “From a “Dynamic River” that flows through the library’s layout to tiered seating and storage inspired by the nearby mountains, every element of the design sparks curiosity and exploration”
• Bristol – Plans to halve Bristol’s libraries budget dropped ahead of major review into their future – Bristol Post. “It had appeared that there would still need to be £1.1million of cuts, which would inevitably mean the closure of some of the 27 branches. But the council has used reserves to plug the gap for the coming financial year from April and instead will set up a taskforce to come up with a grand plan for the future of the city’s libraries.” … “It seems likely, however, that some branches will still be shut in future following the review because large parts of the existing service often have only part-time hours and are plagued by regular unscheduled closures because of staff sickness. ”
  • Monthly bin collections and road closures: furious Bristol residents turn on Greens over council cuts – Guardian. “An initial raft of options, which included closing libraries and mothballing museums, provoked an immediate backlash, forcing the party to rule out the proposals for at least this coming budget.”
• Bromley – Health awareness and support available at Bromley libraries at the end of week-long initiative – London News Online. “This week, for the first time, libraries across Bromley have been taking part in the annual Health Information Week which runs until Sunday.” … “Representatives from local Primary Care Networks and the Integrated Care Board are visiting the appropriately-named ‘Better’ libraries to run sessions on using the NHS app, non-medical support and social prescribing.”
  • Bromley librarian shares poignant family history for Holocaust Memorial Day – Your World. “Bringing the past to life, Jackie, a retired Bromley librarian, told the children about her family’s experience of the Holocaust which was heart-breaking to hear. “
• Calderdale – Temporary changes at Todmorden Library – Calderdale Council. “temporary changes to library services, whilst work takes place to replace part of the building’s roof.”
• Cambridgeshire – The Library Presents reveals its most adventurous line-up so far – Cambridgeshire Council. “Returning in March, for its fifteenth season, the programme features a virtual reality dance game and a creative coding workshop alongside the much-loved performances of music, dance, puppetry and visual arts workshops that will appeal to The Library Presents’ loyal fans”
  • Cambridgeshire libraries to host puppet shows and VR events – Hunts Post. “March will see the return of the programme, which features a virtual reality dance game and a creative coding workshop, alongside performances of music, dance, puppetry, and visual arts workshops.”
• Cheshire West and Chester – Cheshire libraries to hold World Book Day fancy dress swap – Standard. “Many of our libraries will be accepting donations of fancy dress in February and up to World Book Day itself. These will then be made available as soon as possible for anyone who would like a costume. What better way to share the fun, so you can play your part to save money and help with the climate emergency.””
• Croydon – Libraries open longer for more people to enjoy – Croydon Council. “Croydon Council has increased the number of days that some of the borough’s libraries are open, with some now providing residents with full time access five days a week.” … “The changes are a result of listening to residents, who told the Council that the previous opening hours, introduced in 2022, didn’t work with some libraries only open two days a week. The changes are part of the Council’s work to improve the library service and make it more accessible, including introducing self-service at three locations.”
• Devon – North Devon library book returned after 50 years – BBC. This week’s book-returned-very-late story.
  • Free February events at Crediton Library – Crediton Courier. ” free events at Crediton Library, organised by The Folklore Library and Archive, continues with another three chances to attend in February”
• East Sussex – Dame Jacqueline Wilson gives talk at Lewes Library event – Argus. ““I have joined various campaigns to get libraries in schools and spread the word that reading is lovely and helpful for children. I have always been involved with children’s charities.””
• Haringey – Interim library hours to be introduced – Haringey Council. “The shake-up follows the intermittent partial or full closure of some of Haringey’s facilities on isolated days in the last few months due solely to staff shortages. The temporary measure will see the borough’s branch libraries operate at least a four-day service, with the main libraries open for six (Wood Green) or seven days a week (Hornsey and Marcus Garvey). There will be two lunchtime closures at each branch library per week under these arrangements. It comes after careful consideration of staffing levels, room bookings and pre-booked events.”
• Havering -‘The HRA plan to close three libraries is a betrayal of residents, with the council choosing bin liners as a more important spend.’ – Havering Daily. “The announcement of the closures comes just a day after the HRA Cabinet gave council Officers authority to spend over £1m on food waste bin liners. With £260k of spend in the first year and £800k the next year.  Food waste collection isn’t an option, it is a new government requirement. However, many councils do not provide the liners.”
• Hertfordshire – Welwyn Garden City library to kick off 100 year celebrations – Welwyn Hatfield Times. “The programme of events has been created in collaboration with Hertfordshire’s residents and library users and includes celebrations of literature and poetry, events for children, young people and families, theatre, comedy and much more.”
• Jersey – ‘Public libraries can teach us a thing or two when it comes to promoting health and fitness for everyone’ – Jersey Evening Post. “Why is it that we have to pay to use a gym to improve physical fitness but it costs nothing to borrow books that provide intellectual stimulation?”
  • St Helier Children’s Library, Jersey – Designing Libraries. “Jersey Chief Librarian Ed Jewell explains the thinking behind the recently-revamped Children’s Library in St Helier and how the project progressed, and talks about reaction to the changes.” … ” It’s not unusual to see young jaws drop as they cross the threshold and to hear wails of disappointment as parents try to take small people home. “
• Leeds – The joy of libraries – Yorkshire Bylines. “I hope this piece will encourage people to get out and make more use their library, and all its facilities. They are a fantastic resource, and we should show that we appreciate them by using them”
• Lincolnshire – ‘Better’ supports Department for Education’s ‘Skills for Life’ Campaign in Lincolnshire this January – Your World. Registration wall. Career advice sessions in leisure centres and libraries.
• Merton – The importance of local libraries and how to support them – This is Local London / Young Reporter. “In Wimbledon each week I see many students, children and adults alike enjoying our local Wimbledon library, from reading, studying or simply enjoying themselves. Local libraries are facilities which can sometimes be taken for granted, however local libraries are an accessible source of information and make knowledge accessible to all, so how can you support your local library?”
• Newport – Upcoming meetings on future of two Newport public libraries – South Wales Argus. “It has been proposed to close Tredegar House and Caerleon library close 2025/26 council budget proposal.  The council is holding two public consultation meetings for residents to share their views on the plans.”
• Norfolk – Norfolk libraries forced to close due to IT network issues – Great Yarmouth Mercury. “The problem affects Norfolk County Council’s libraries which offer ‘open libraries’ access – where people can use their library cards and a PIN number to get in when the building is not staffed.” … “There have also been issues with the Spydus App” for those using Android devices.
  • Former library building gets new custodian – BBC. “An arts organisation has been chosen as the new custodian of a library building in the hope it will continue the “cultural legacy” of the ornate brick structure. The Garage Trust has been selected and will move from The Workshop at the Vancouver Quarter in King’s Lynn to the Carnegie Library building on London Road. A replacement library and community hub is currently being built in the town as part of a regeneration project funded by the government and Norfolk County Council” … “A new library and community hub is being built in the town centre on the site of the former Argos with funding from the King’s Lynn Town Deal, external.”
  • Nearly 150 people banned from Norfolk tips and libraries – North Norfolk News. “Bans at Norfolk’s libraries ranged from a day to a year, with the vast majority applied because of anti-social behaviour.”
• North Lincolnshire – Dolly Parton reading scheme hits million mark – BBC. “Helen Hastle, from the Dollywood Foundation UK, said the North Lincolnshire library was the first in the country to reach the millionth book milestone”
• North Somerset – North Somerset Library Services receive laptops to support digital inclusion – North Somerset Council. “North Somerset Council Library Services is excited to announce it has received a generous donation of laptops from the Good Things Foundation’s National Device Bank“
• Nottingham – Sherwood: Delayed library on track for summer opening – BBC. “The Labour-run council sold the site to local developer Hockley Developments, with an agreement the library would be built at no capital cost to the authority and that a 125-year lease would be agreed at a nominal rent …”
• Oldham – Oldham pledges its commitment to being one of the most inclusive digital towns in UK – Oldham Council. ” Residents and businesses are encouraged to continue their support for Donate IT Oldham, by donating any unwanted devices at any of Oldham’s libraries “
• Pembrokeshire – Consultation launched on changes to Pembrokeshire libraries – Tenby Observer. “Following a Library Needs Assessment last summer which asked the public about their library needs and about ways to reduce running costs as part of Council-wide savings requirements, it became clear that respondents did not support closing libraries, replacing staff with 24/7 access technology or reducing the book fund.”
• Rutland – Ryhall library services – Rutland Council. “Following condition surveys that have been carried out to support enhancements to our library buildings, we have found that the necessary works to bring Ryhall Library up to standard would exceed the available budget for this site. Because of this, Rutland County Council has notified the Department of Digital Culture Media and Sport (DCMS) and the Arts Council that we must explore alternative options for delivering library services in Ryhall.” see also Ryhall Library users want to take over the service to stop its closure – Lincolnshire Online. “Ryhall villagers were blindsided this month after news broke that its popular library could face closure due to expensive repair works, which Rutland County Council says it cannot afford.” and Residents attend meeting to come up with ways to save Ryhall Library from closure – Lincolnshire Online and Six weeks to save Ryhall Library – Rayo.
• Shropshire – Shropshire Libraries to offer help with NHS App – Shropshire Council. “Thanks to the partnership with the NHS, Shropshire Libraries staff have been provided with the tools and support to play a key part in helping people to use the NHS App to better understand and manage their health. Ten libraries in Shropshire are offering support on how to use the NHS App as part of their digital offer. Support includes how to register, navigate and get the most out of the App.”
• Slough – ‘I’ll do everything I can to save the libraries’ – BBC. “The former child refugee learnt English in his local library and has said he will now do “everything in my power” to save Langley Library in Slough from closure.” … “He said his daughter goes to the library twice a week, and when he told her they wanted to close it she cried.”
• Suffolk – Withdrawal – Library Services in Suffolk – BidStats. “Suffolk County Council has taken the decision to withdraw the Library Services in Suffolk tender and not award a contract for which there has been a call for competition. The procurement process did not result in a successful outcome due to difficulties in aligning submissions with the service requirements and budgets. Therefore, it has been determined that it is not in the public interest to continue to award.The Council will continue to examine the Service with a view to revising the scope.” see Delay for decision about the future of Suffolk libraries – EADT.
• Surrey – Newly refurbished Woking Library celebrates with activities for all – Woking News and Mail. “Events will feature a calligraphy workshop, a Tai Chi taster session with the Chinese Association of Woking to celebrate the Chinese New Year, and an opportunity for children to encounter magnificent reptiles, alongside the library’s regular weekly activities such as Rhymetime, Storytime, digital buddy sessions and craft groups.”
• Warwickshire – Rugby Library and Makerspace – Designing Libraries. “The new space has clearly defined zones for quiet reading, soft seating areas to encourage social/ relaxing visits, while a bright children’s space with cocoon seating, character chairs, mobile shelving and book storage is always busy with curious and playful children.” … “the library and makerspace has received amazing feedback and the space is constantly filled with users of all ages and abilities.”
• Westminster – Westminster City Council to Open New Community Hub in Pimlico in 2026 – Westminster Council. “Westminster City Council has announced the planned opening of a brand-new community hub in the heart of Pimlico, set to launch in 2026. This transformative project is part of the Council’s ambitious Community Hubs Programme, striving to connect residents to the support they need across the city. The council opened two mini-hubs, at Victoria and Charing Cross libraries, in 2024.”
• West Sussex – West Sussex libraries centenary: what is your favourite book? – Sussex World. “With West Sussex libraries celebrating their centenary this year, we have invited some of our 2025 librarians to tell us about their favourite book.”
• York – Community membership – York Explore. “When you join us as a community member you are showing your support for Explore York Libraries and Archives and all the work we do.  There is a £1 joining fee which represents your share in our organisation. As a Community Member you’ll be joining an important conversation about how we develop Explore with local people.  You will elect three Community Directors to our Board who will represent you at all our Board meetings and keep in touch throughout the year via newsletter and events.”

Editorial

I had hoped headlines like that would be a thing of the past now that the Government has changed but it turns out it is not to be. I will leave it at that.

Changes by local authority

• Bristol – Up to £2.4m out of £4.7m budget to be cut
• Dudley – School Libraries Service moves into Halesowen Library, replacing subscription service.
• Norfolk – Kings Lynn and Yarmouth libraries to reopen this year in colocations
• Nottingham –  Aspley, Basford, Bilborough libraries may be passed to volunteers rather than closed.

National news

• Better World Books 2025 Literacy Grants – Better World Books. “Applications will be accepted through January 31, 2025. This is an opportunity to secure funding to amplify your organization’s work and to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of literacy and education.”
• Library events (Beta) – LibraryOn. “We’ve built this feature to list public library events from across the country. It’s currently in ‘beta’, which means we’re testing how it performs with people. It also means we don’t have all library events listed here yet.”
• The Public Library Brand: refuge, joy, connection, purpose, and expansion – Ned Potter. “.library usage positively contributes to externally validated measures of well-being. Our research found that patrons experience refuge, joy, connection, purpose, and expansion through their library use.”
• Snowflake to tour West Midlands libraries – British Theatre Guide. “The Birmingham Rep, Polka Theatre and Little Angel Theatre production of The Snowflake will tour 18 libraries across Birmingham and the West Midlands during January and February 2025. The show ran at the Rep and the tour has been devised to give more families the opportunity to see the tale inspired by Benji Davies’s children’s book of the same name. Tickets will be free or at a low cost because of funding from Arts Council England.”

International news

• Afghanistan – Public Libraries: A Growing Hub for Knowledge and Research – Bakhtar News Agency. “s. Last year, the ministry purchased 10,560 books, supported by various organizations, to enhance public libraries across the nation. Looking ahead, plans are underway to establish six new public library branches in different provinces and to procure advanced machines for scanning and preserving historical texts.”
• Australia – From fitness to finance sessions, local libraries evolving as patrons soar – ABC News. “Library program attendance has almost doubled nationally in recent years, with more than 6.1 million participants in 2022-23.”
• New Zealand – Age-restricted library books you might need your ID to borrow from Auckland’s libraries – New Zealand Herald. “Tucked away out the back of the Auckland Central Library is a selection of 29 books that, in the eyes of New Zealand Office of Film and Literature Classification (NZOFLC) moderators, could “cause injury to the public good” if not restricted to those over a certain age.” … ““Book bans and restrictions in New Zealand are rare, but when they’re applied, it’s about balancing the protection of readers, especially young people, with the importance of freedom of expression”
• Turkey – ‘A space specific to women’: Women’s library opens in Kurdish-majority Diyarbakır, Turkey – Medya News. ““We set out to create an area specific to women,” said Berivan Gülşen Sincar, co-mayor of Kayapınar Municipality, during the opening ceremony of the Library of Women’s Works on Tuesday in the Kurdish-majority city. The library aims to preserve women’s contributions.”
• Ukraine – Kremlin Sends Another Batch of Propaganda Materials to Libraries in Temporarily Occupied Mariupol – Sprotyv. “More than 1,000 copies of propaganda literature have been delivered to libraries in the temporarily occupied Mariupol from St. Petersburg. However, these so-called “institutions” can hardly be described as libraries. The Kremlin has transformed Ukrainian libraries into centers for Russification and tools for brainwashing the local population”
• USA – Digital audiobooks lead growth in library circulation for the second year – Audio Publishers Association. “Digital audiobooks account for 70% of adult audio circulation and 56% of youth audio circulation in libraries.”
  • “Hopefully, we can sit together and discuss what we consider is appropriate”: Inside Two Years of Nonstop Hell for Alpena Public Library – Book Riot. ” a loud reminder that it’s not buying personal copies of banned books nor distributing banned books via buses or vans or even Little Free Libraries which will solve the problem and save these public institutions of democracy. It’s showing up to board meetings, showing up at the polls, and using your voice to loudly push back against propaganda and bigotry intended to destabilize and defund public goods. Library workers have been seen as expendable and sometimes downright invisible, especially in an era of increased demands and stagnant, if not shrinking, budgets.”
  • Palisades Branch Library goes up in flames – Fox LA. Video.

Local news by authority

• Bristol – Bristol library closures seem inevitable despite fewer potential cuts than feared – Bristol Live. “Permanent closures of some of Bristol’s 27 libraries seem inevitable, despite the fact that savage proposed cuts could be less severe than feared, a city council meeting heard. Plans unveiled last week to halve the service’s current £4.7million budget would have left just seven to ten branches, plus the Central one, the council’s finance sub-committee was told.”
• Caerphilly – Leisure centres and libraries at risk of closure as council warns of £47 million black hole – ITV. see also ​Library Service review – Have your say – Caerphilly Council.
  • Ten libraries still under threat despite opposition to council reforms – Nation Cymru. “Sites in Aberbargoed, Abercarn, Abertridwr, Bedwas, Deri, Llanbradach, Machen, Nelson, Oakdale and Pengam may all still be subject to closure. The council is likely to push ahead with the reforms despite a clear majority of respondents disagreeing with the proposals during a recent public consultation.”
• Cheshire West and Chester – Cheshire West library events to boost health and wellbeing – Standard. “The initiative, which runs from January 20 to January 26, 2025, aims to enhance mental and physical wellbeing with their range of activities. In collaboration with multiple partners such as Age UK, Brio Leisure, and Citizens Advice, the Library Service has ensured an inclusive event. From workshops to wellness walks and even volunteering information days, there will be something for everyone.”
  • Two Cheshire libraries to welcome crime writers and novelist – Standard. “Little Sutton Library will host Trevor Wood and Rob Parker, crime writers, while Neston Library will feature a conversation with Jasper Fforde, novelist.”
• Croydon – Croydon Tories close libraries – Socialist Party. “Croydon Tory council closed the doors on four libraries in November. The council announced that this closure would allow it to increase the opening hours and offer more services at the remaining nine libraries. They have also been forced to put on a shuttle service for residents whose local library has closed down, to ferry them to the nearest library. It’s only for particular days, but it shows the pressure councils are under from residents not to make cuts.”
• Denbighshire – Denbighshire Libraries launch 25 Book Challenge in 2025 – Free Press. “Participants will be encouraged to read books from 25 different genres and themes. The task will be set out in book bingo style, with categories such as prizewinning novels, books set in different countries, and works by Welsh authors. Bingo sheets can be picked up from local libraries. Readers will win incentives like a bookmark and a tote bag for reading 10, 20, and 25 books, while stocks last.”
• Derby – Sponsorship appeal for children’s literacy event – Marketing Derby. “Derby Libraries, which is part of Derby City Council, is looking for businesses to sponsor a children’s literacy event this summer.”
• Derbyshire – Library users encouraged to get ready for system switchover – Derbyshire Council. New library management system.
• Devon – Pop-up children’s library launches in Princesshay as roof works take place – Devon Live. Exeter Central Library: “A pop-up children’s library is launching in Princesshay during essential roof works at the main library. Work is scheduled to begin on January 27 and is expected to last approximately three months.”
  • The Devon County Council plans to move Seaton library – Mid Week Herald. “Council has announced plans to move Seaton Library from its current Queen Street location to a re-purposed premises central to the town, in partnership with Seaton Town Council.”
• Dudley – Dudley Schools Library Service moves to Halesowen Library – Stourbridge News. “The service was based in Dudley and was not previously accessible, but it will now be located at Halesowen Library – allowing teachers to browse and select items themselves rather than ordering and having them delivered as happened in the past.”. New system replaces an annual subscription service.
• Falkirk – Query over what future holds for Falkirk’s Hope Street library building – Falkirk Herald. Library may be moved into co-location. “if councillors agree to the proposals it leaves a question over the future of the Hope Street building which was gifted to the townspeople by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.”
• Glasgow – Opening of new Parkhead Library delayed due to ‘issue’ – Glasgow Times. “The opening of the new Parkhead Library has been delayed due to an ‘issue’. The facility was due to move into the new Parkhead Hub in Duke Street, which will bring together a range of community health and social care services, including the library. This move was due to happen on January 20 but now, Glasgow Life has announced that the date has been pushed back, due to a technical commissioning issue.”
  • Glasgow tea and coffee on offer at libraries as people invited in from the cold – Glasgow Live. “ibraries provide cosy spaces known as ‘welcome places’ for residents looking to drop in for heat – as fuel poverty is a major problem the city.”
• Halton – Runcorn and Widnes libraries to host World Book Day hubs – Runcorn and Widnes World. “Children will be given the opportunity to exchange their £1 World Book Day book token for a £1 book of their choice – for free.”
• Herefordshire – New name for library group – Ross Gazette. “The Ross Library Development Group has transitioned from a position of saving the library in June 2011 to where it is today, as being a supportive role for the town’s library and all that it offers to the community.”
• Isle of Wight – Library to fully reopen next month after maintenance and refurbishment – County Press. “The Lord Louis Library in Newport began repairs on October 14, and was expected to be finished by the end of December. Ahead of the grand reopening, the library will be closed on January 30, January 31 and February 1.”
• Lewisham – This Lewisham Station Library Faces Imminent Closure – Londonist. “since May 2022, the free library (which Michael is keen to point doesn’t work under the same concept as a book swap, because it doesn’t work on a book-for-book basis) has proved immensely popular. Michael reckons the turnover of books in the last two-and-a-half years is in the ballpark of 200,000.” Now the railway station wants removal due to fire concerns.
• Lincolnshire – Health Information Week at Libraries – Spalding Voice. Including NHS App training.
• Norfolk – Opening dates near for King’s Lynn and Yarmouth libraries – Eastern Daily Press. “Replacement libraries in Great Yarmouth and King’s Lynn will be included in new, multi-million-pound community hubs which are being built inside former town centre shops.”
  • Get hands-on with technology at your local library throughout February – Norfolk Council. “DigiFest is an annual celebration of digital creativity in Norfolk libraries throughout February. With free events for children and young people aged up to 16, there is something for every aspiring digital mind. “
• North Yorkshire – ‘Slipper Social’ at Bedale Library to help prevent falls – Darlington and Stockton Times. “Free slippers will be on offer at a special event to help prevent slips, trips and falls later this month.”
• Nottingham – Fears over ‘two-tier’ Nottingham library service with volunteers to run some sites – Nottinghamshire Live. “Nottingham City Council has confirmed it wants to stop running some of its libraries and claims it has already received interest from voluntary groups about taking them on. A leading campaigner says he is “very disappointed” by the city council’s decision, which is set to affect more than 20 staff and caused 17 councillors to walk out of a Nottingham Labour meeting on Thursday (January 16).”
  • Some Nottingham libraries set to be run by volunteers as part of city council budget cuts – Nottingham Post. “Nottingham City Council has decided that it wants volunteers to run some of its historic libraries instead of them closing for good, Nottinghamshire Live understands. A fiery meeting of the Nottingham Labour group on Thursday (January 16) reportedly saw members vote to hand libraries in Bilborough, Aspley and Basford over to the voluntary sector.”
• Perth and Kinross – Hundreds attend protest against proposed Perth and Kinross library closures – Daily Record. “Over 300 campaigners gathered outside Perth Museum on Saturday, January 11 to protest against the proposed closure of five Perth and Kinross libraries”
  • Could 10% council tax rise help save Perth and Kinross libraries from axe? – Courier. “Councillor Jack Welch was one of a number of local and national politicians who attended Saturday’s demonstration. The Strathmore ward councillor said the council’s SNP administration was open to safeguarding library services. And he said a better than expected government funding package for next year, coupled with a potential 10% council tax rise, could make that achievable.”
• Peterborough – ‘Visit our library before deciding on its fate’ – BBC. “Woodston Library in Peterborough is at risk of closure after the city council announced budget cuts, including a proposal to reduce the current 10 static libraries it looks after down to three. Jennie Story, from Friends of Woodston Library, invited all 60 city councillors and MPs to attend on Saturday, to see how “important and needed the venue is”.”
• Portsmouth – Portsmouth Libraries to host NHS App drop-in sessions – Portsmouth Council. “Portsmouth Libraries will be hosting sessions throughout the year in partnership with local GP practices. Having staff from their GP practice present will mean patients can get full access on the NHS App, there and then, including being able to access their GP health record. HIVE Portsmouth’s Digital Champions, who are volunteers willing to share basic IT skills with their community, will also be on-hand to provide support at the sessions.”
• Somerset – Free library service to deliver books to lonely residents – County Gazette. “A free service delivering books to the housebound is being promoted to lonely residents. Somerset Council’s Home Library Service (HLS) is run by the council and a team of volunteers.”
• Southend – Southend Libraries hosts literature, photography, and family history events – Southend on Sea Council. “The Council is excited to announce two fascinating events as part of Southend Libraries’ 2025 schedule, catering to lovers of literature, photography, and family history.”
• Staffordshire – Libraries now offering people support to use NHS App – Staffordshire Council. “People who need that little bit of extra help to download and register on the NHS App can now do so at a library in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. The support is available at eight Staffordshire libraries, with several more expected to join in the coming months.”
• St Helens – St Helens libraries to host ‘Baby Rhyme Time’ sessions – St Helens Star. “Participants can enjoy a variety of activities that incorporate the NSPCC’s Look Say Sing Play campaign, including the use of rhymes, instruments, and toys.”
• Stirling – Stirling Council urged to rethink budget cuts that will see libraries lose 25 percent – Herald Scotland. “The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals in Scotland (CILIPS) has now written to the council to request a change in approach and believe the 25% cut could have a disastrous effect on libraries in the Stirling area.”
• Suffolk – Explore the forest of stories: Our new early years reading programme – Suffolk Libraries. 0-5 years reading promotion. “The group of animals and their forest surroundings will feature in a beautiful map and set of stickers which families can collect from libraries for free from 13 January so they can begin their adventure in the Forest of Stories.”
  • Suffolk Libraries launches Discover More to help residents find local activities, events and services – Suffolk News.
• Sunderland – Library move opens space for museum and gardens – BBC. “Sunderland’s Museum and Winter Gardens will have extra room when the city’s library moves to the Culture House development on Keel Square in the autumn.”
• Tameside – Tameside Council launches ‘The big friendly book return’ – Tameside Correspondent. “Tameside Council has launched ‘The big friendly book return’ –  an initiative encouraging residents to return long-lost or well-loved library books. The program, aimed at children’s books borrowed from Tameside Libraries, begins immediately and offers amnesty for all overdue or damaged items. Simply drop them in the dedicated Big Friendly Book Return box at your local library or hand them over at the counter and your account will be cleared – no questions asked.” [And presumably ignore the Big Friendly Escape Arrows” taped on to the floor in the picture – Ed.]
• Torbay – Torbay libraries offer free clothes, food, and events – Torbay Today. “Free warm clothes, hygiene banks, community fridges stocked with free food, and hundreds of welcoming groups and events are amongst a wealth of offerings to be found in libraries across the resort. Libraries Unlimited, the charity that runs libraries in the county, is rolling out its Cold Days, Warm Libraries campaign for the third year running.”
• Westmorland and Furness – Temporary library service opens in Barrow – Westmorland and Furness Council. “A temporary library service has opened today (Wednesday) in place of the closed Roose Library in Barrow. Roose Library had to be closed due to fire damage caused following a suspected arson attack. Since the library building’s closure, Westmorland and Furness Council has been considering a number of options for a temporary library in place of the closed Roose Library, while it engages with the community on a long-term, permanent library offer.”
  • Council launches surveys to help shape future of library services – Westmorland and Furness Council. “The council is inviting everyone, current library users and non-users, adults and children, to share their views on what matters most to them, ensuring that our libraries continue to meet the diverse needs of our community.”
• West Sussex – West Sussex Libraries celebrate 100 years of service – Argus. “The county council adopted the Public Libraries Act 1919 on February 13, 1925, paving the way for a network of libraries in the county.” Events include an ACE funded “Library of Possibilities and Wonders virtual reality (VR) experience.”
• Wirral – Birkenhead Central Library to host ‘info marketplace’ for Health Information Week – Birkenhead News. “The event is part of the Health Information Week … national campaign promoting high-quality information for the public that takes place from 20-26 January 2025″
• Worcestershire – Primary School Library Visit: Fostering a lifelong love of reading – Worcestershire Council. “In 2024, Worcestershire’s libraries hosted 502 school visits, providing over 16,000 pupils with focused sessions that support national curriculum objectives.”