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The third lockdown: damned if you do ..?
Jan 10th
Editorial
Rather than commenting directly on what is going on, this editorial will be an overview of the current state of play in this country’s libraries. Full details can be found here. After checking the status of each and every service, this appears to to be at least an acceptable rough-draft first estimate of what is going on:
- more than two thirds of English public library services are offering some sort of click and collect service, normally from a small selection of branches. Over one-third are offering PCs for “essential use” and around a quarter have an operating home library service. On other hand, at least a fifth are entirely closed – apart from online of course.
- in Wales, most are offering click and collect, but PC use is far rarer.
- in Scotland, barely a quarter are offering click and collect, with very few offering PCs
- Northern Irish libraries are providing click and collect in all branches but not PC usage.
- In the whole country, it appears to be only Guernsey that is operating in any way similar to normality.
This completely mixed bag is the new normal and indeed reflects the variety present in library services before Covid. However, what is new is the intensity of the debate on social media about the wisdom of offering even click and collect in libraries.
Those in favour point out the lifeline library services can be for people, especially in such lonely times as now. They also point out that this service may strengthen the library’s hand when it comes to budget setting. Those against, including Unison, are worried about the possibility of infection, especially amongst staff and the most vulnerable, and doubt whether opening would have much impact on budgets at all. The strength of feeling appears stronger this time than in the second lockdown, presumably due to the increased rates of infection. Interestingly, everywhere appears to be sticking with quarantining books, even though this is a practice which has not taken place in many European countries.
It seems odd to discuss anything but lockdown at the moment so I’ll leave it there. I wish you all a safe and healthy week.

National news
- £7.5m to be distributed to help tackle winter loneliness – UK Fundraising. “£5 million will go to Arts Council England for arts and library services, of which £3.5 million has been awarded by DCMS to national charity The Reading Agency, for its Reading Well and Reading Friends programmes”
- Are libraries open during lockdown? – Express. Includes link to PLN.
- Libraries sector in the New Year Honours list – DCMS Libraries. “Congratulations to the 6 people working in or with the public libraries sector in England who were awarded honours last week in recognition of their contribution to libraries.”: Mark Freeman MBE (President Libraries Connected / Stockton on Tees), Stellar Thebridge MBE (Warwickshire), Michael Clarke MBE (London), Terry Bracher BEM (Wiltshire), Richard Fawcett BEM (Thurston volunteer library). Jon Davies BEM (Kirklees).
- Lyngsoe Systems to acquire PV Supa Group – Lynsgoe Systems. 2CQR part of deal. “Building on 50 years of combined experience … based on the Scandinavian design heritage … unifying two of the Library market’s leading players into one strong entity will deliver new complementary solutions and services to libraries across the world and even stronger support to the large existing customer base.”
- Wiltshire and Swindon heritage services manager Terry Bracher is awarded a British Empire Medal – Wiltshire Times. “Mr Bracher, 58, is manager for heritage services at the Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre in Cocklebury Road, Chippenham, and has been national chairman of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals local studies group for ten years.”
- Tier 4 rules in full: What you can do in England’s highest Covid restrictions, as more areas added in review – I. ” Libraries can also remain open to provide access to IT and digital services and for click-and-collect service”
- Union calls for libraries to be ‘completely closed’ during lockdown – LocalGov. ” Unison argues that even these limited services expose library workers and users to unnecessary risks in the face of a highly transmissible COVID-19 variant.”, Unison says “‘We recognise how important libraries are to local communities but for the moment we must focus on what is best for the health and safety of the public and library workers.’”
International news
- Global – OverDrive Reports Surge in Digital Library Lending in 2020 – Publishers Weekly. “Readers worldwide borrowed some 430 million e-books, audiobooks and digital magazines in the year, a hefty 33% increase over 2019, “
- Lithuania – Reading During Pandemic: The Library Encourages to Rediscover Books in Innovative Ways. Povilas Višinskis Šiauliai County Public Library (Lithuania) – Naple Sister Libraries. Book lending machines … ” a widely publicized campaign to promote reading, during which well-known representatives of Lithuanian culture and art told about their favorite, recommended books” … ” Graphic design of the book lending machines were curated by artists of Šiauliai city. “
- Mexico – One of the 21st Century’s Greatest Buildings Is a Library in Mexico – Yahoo News. ” the hulking concrete carapace of one of the world’s most spectacular libraries.”
- USA – Jill Biden to Close ALA Midwinter Virtual – American Libraries. “The American Library Association announced today that the next First Lady, Jill Biden, EdD, will participate in ALA’s Midwinter Meeting & Exhibits Virtual on Monday, January 25, from 11:15 a.m.–noon Central. Dr. Biden will join a conversation with ALA President Julius C. Jefferson Jr., which will serve as the event’s closing session.”
Local news by authority
- Aberdeen – Revealed: The top books read in Aberdeen during 2020 – Evening Express.
- Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire – Number of people registering for north-east libraries on the increase – Evening Express. “In Aberdeen, data for 2019/20 shows that a total of 7,089 adults signed up for a library card at one of the city’s libraries, while 257 teens aged between 12 and 15 got a card and 1,910 children were registered. This compares to 6,959 adults, 305 teenagers and 1,801 children who were registered in 2018/19.”
- Bolton – Westhoughton Library shuts for repairs — here’s how you can still order books – Bolton News. Click and collect, home library service, PCs.
- Bradford – Groups to discuss future of libraries in New Year – Telegraph and Argus. “Keighley Library is one of a number of District Libraries that will begin to deliver a “tailored offer” – services unique to the area the library is based in, rather than a general offer provided by every library across the District.”
- Bradford is city of the future says Arts Council chief – Telegraph and Argus. “The head of Arts Council England has praised Bradford’s “nationally significant” cultural venues which he says will lead the way in helping to re-build the district’s future in the post-pandemic world.”
- Brent – Vacancy: Manager – LocalGov Jobs. £34-36k permanent full-time.
- Bridgend – Libraries offering collection and delivery services in Bridgend – In Your Area. Click and collect, home library service.
- Cheshire East – Council says it is ready to support local communities as national lockdown begins – Alderley Edge.com. Click and collect.
- Cheshire West and Chester – Covid lockdown 3: Cheshire West and Chester Council issue services update – The Standard. “All libraries, including the home and mobile library service, will close. An order and collect service was made available from January 7.”
- Cumbria – Barrow book-lovers still able to take titles out of libraries thanks to ‘select and collect’ service – The Mail. Click and collect, PCs
- Denbighshire – Denbighshire Council thanks residents as Welsh Government move country into alert level 4 – Denbighshire Free Press. “Denbighshire libraries will be closed during alert level 4, but are offering an order and collect service and a home library service delivering books to your home.”
- Dorset – Funding boost for Weymouth Library – Dorset Echo. “Friends of Weymouth Library (FOWL) has pledged further funding for the Libraries as Cultural Hubs initiative to continue into the new year.”
- Edinburgh – Boyack says libraries need to open – Edinburgh Reporter. “Scottish Labour has today warned of a ‘connectivity crisis’ for elderly people and can reveal that, as at 16 December, only 40 per cent of Scotland’s public libraries were open for business – with the remaining libraries in mainland Scotland set to shut under Level Four restrictions.” … “Scottish Labour local government spokesperson Sarah Boyack said: “Libraries are at the heart of local communities and play a vital role in the lives of elderly people in particular.”
- Essex – Campaigners call for north Essex library hours to be restored – Clacton Gazette. “The campaigners are now concerned about a reduction in opening hours after school, in the evenings and on Saturdays in certain parts of the county.”
- Fife – Too good to give back? Books worth thousands stuck on readers’ shelves after pandemic library shut down – The Courier. “Books fans have kept hold of 44,456 overdue books in the area after the Covid-19 crisis threw return schedules into disarray.”
- Flintshire – Aura Libraries Flintshire: Select & Collect, and Home Delivery service remain in place in January 2021 – The Leader.
- Hampshire – Ready Reads at Andover Library – Love Andover. Click and collect. “On Monday 11 January they are launching the Winter Reading Challenge! All you need to do is read 4 books and you have until 27 February.”
- New Forest libraries to close until the new year – and may stay shut longer – Advertiser and Times. “Libraries in the New Forest are shutting to the public over the festive period after the government placed the district into Tier 3 from Boxing Day – with no promises they will reopen afterwards.”
- Hartlepool – Exciting plans for Hartlepool’s libraries will embrace the future while preserving the past, say chiefs – Hartlepool Mail. “Plans for the future will see a ‘blend’ of both physical and digital library services – the latter of which council chiefs say has been used increasingly during the pandemic. The Headland branch library will also evolve into a family and local history centre as part of the overhaul.”
- Havering – Havering libraries close again for lockdown – Romford Recorder. Closed, with no click and collect, until at least mid February.
- Hertfordshire – Hertfordshire Libraries – Help to get online or connect digitally – Hertfordshire Council. “Welcome to our digital skills information page. Here you will find links to top tips, how-to-guides, courses and information which can help you (or help you to help others) improve your digital skills”
- Inverclyde – Inverclyde Libraries running ‘Crafters and Crochet’ activities – Greenock Telegraph. “Inverclyde Libraries is running a series of recorded crochet classes and Facebook discussion sessions on Zoom.”
- Libraries And Museum Affected By Level Four Restrictions – Inverclyde Now. Click and collect, home library service.
- Isle of Wight – Council libraries closed during national lockdown – Island Echo. Click and collect suspended, to be reviewed in February. Loans extended until 1 March.
- Lambeth – Lambeth Libraries in lockdown – what’s on for January 2021 – Brixton Buzz. Click and collect, PCs, home library service.
- Lancashire – Keep up children’s reading momentum by using library e-book services in Lancashire – The Gazette.
- Manchester – End of Year Library bulletin from Cllr Rahman – Manclibraries Blog. “A new Young Peoples Reading Group for ages 13 – 18 and a local history Zoom session with members of the Brunswick community have been well received. Extraordinary storyteller Gav Cross performed his online Twisted Christmas Tales sessions with schools and Gorton Library had Santas knitted for MacMillan”
- Norfolk – Wizards and hobbits: Which e-books Norfolk read in the pandemic – Eastern Daily Press. “People turned to Jack Reacher, Harry Potter and Bilbo Baggins as escapism in a year dominated by coronavirus, a list of the most borrowed e-books and audio books from Norfolk’s libraries has revealed.”
- BIPC Norfolk offers free support to start-ups and small businesses – Eastern Daily Press. ““We hope that face-to-face sessions can resume once more restrictions are lifted but we’ll definitely continue to offer some sessions online. They’ve worked really well and mean that people don’t have to factor in travelling time in order to attend.””
- North Yorkshire – Pickering, Whitby, Scarborough and Filey libraries maintain vital links during lockdown – Scarborough News. Click and collect, PCs, home library service.
- Library volunteers set young bookworms a challenge – Harrogate News. “Summer reading challenges take place nationally in the six weeks holiday and the volunteers who operate Thirsk Library, on behalf of North Yorkshire County Council, have followed the same model for the Christmas break. But the event has become a community effort, involving volunteers who keep the library running, crafters who have also supplied their expertise to give children ‘craft bags’ with projects to complete, along with funding for the materials from Thirsk Rotary Club.”
- Nottingham – All you need to know about changes to our Libraries service during the Coronavirus (Covid-19) period – Nottingham City. Click and collect, PCs.
- Pembrokeshire – Pembrokeshire libraries offer order and collect through coronavirus lockdown – Western Telegraph. Click and collect.
- Perth and Kinross – Public libraries and museums in Perth and Kinross to close from Christmas Eve – Daily Record. “Culture Perth and Kinross is temporarily halting public admission to all its archives, libraries, museums and galleries from Christmas Eve until further notice.”
- Sheffield – Service updates – Libraries Sheffield. Click and collect, no PCs (under review). home library service.
- Somerset – Libraries continue to provide essential services – Somerset Libraries. Click and collect, PCs.
- South Ayrshire – Agenda: Libraries provide comfort for those alone at Christmas – The Herald.
- Staffordshire – Several public services to remain open in Staffordshire during Lockdown 3 – In Your Area. “From last week libraries across the county, including in Leek, will remain open for essential PC use and the click & collect and Grab & Go services. Opening times at libraries will be 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. There will be temporary closure at Biddulph, while many community managed libraries will offer a service and users should check directly with them, however, mobile libraries will not be on the road during lockdown.”
- Auctioneer becomes a magnet for rare Harry Potter books – BBC News. “The first they ever sold originally belonged to Staffordshire Libraries, and was discovered when Mr Spencer was asked to value a private collection in the county, into which the library copy had found its way.”
- Stoke on Trent – Plans unveiled for Stoke-on-Trent’s new central library – Stoke Sentinel. “Stoke-on-Trent City Council will spend £1.5 million turning the vacant ground floor unit in Two Smithfield into the new base for Hanley’s City Central library. The proposed facility will include a computer suite, dedicated children’s area, public toilets and a lift, with a new mezzanine floor providing extra space.”
- Suffolk – Get fit with free Jumpstart January online activities from Suffolk Libraries – East Anglian Daily Times. “Taylor Griffin-Marsh will be teaching Pilates and yoga online as part of Suffolk Libraries’ Jumpstart January fitness activities “
- Families brought to tears by gifts from libraries – EADT. “Families have been brought to tears by gifts organised by libraries in Suffolk. Chantry Library and its friends group recently made a special Christmas delivery to local families in need. With a grant of £500 from Ipswich Borough Council and a £500 donation from the East of England Co-op, the library friends were able to make a gift of food vouchers to 20 local families in crisis who have been affected by the pandemic. “
- Libraries to close until further notice as county enters Tier 4 – East Anglian Daily Times.
- Wakefield – Wakefield libraries to close for Christmas – Wakefield Express.
- Worcestershire – Worcestershire libraries reveal most borrowed books of 2020 – Bromsgrove Standard.
- Digital services on offer at county libraries in lockdown – Worcester Observer. Click and collect, PCs.
Lockdown 3, basically
Dec 20th
Editorial
A large number of libraries that have only recently come out of lockdown, in London and the South-East have basically gone straight back into them. The Tier 4 rules allow libraries to be open for digital usage and click-and-collect only so, for 17.7 million people, it means not browsing once more. Also in the South-East, it’s worth mentioning the campaign against library cuts in Croydon, which has been heavily involved in protest recently. Other than that, well, I’d like to wish you a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. It has to be better than 2020 hasn’t it?

National news
- CWA Library Initiatives – Shots Mag. “The world-famous CWA Daggers have been synonymous with quality crime writing for more than half a century. Only library staff can nominate authors for the CWA Dagger in the Library. Nominations are open until February 26, 2021 and up to three members of staff from each UK library can nominate.”
- Five-year stats show library service entering ‘rapid decline’, finds Coates – BookSeller. The standard piece from Tim Coates at the end. There is some useful, and sadly depressing, information here.
- Full list of businesses that must close in new Tier 4 and what can stay open – Mirror. Report libraries must close in Tier 4 areas.
- Fun Palaces is growing – and changing – Fun Palaces. “We are sad and excited to announce that co-founders and co-directors Stella Duffy and Sarah-Jane Rawlings are leaving Fun Palaces; Stella at the end of January, Sarah-Jane in late spring/early summer. Kirsty Lothian, our producer since the beginning, will step up as co-director, and in January we will recruit for someone (or someones, as we are all currently part time) to join the HQ team, working alongside our Ambassadors across the country,”
- Library Cuts Are an Affront to Democracy – Byline Times. “It would seem both bizarre and destructive to suggest that because we have done without schools, pubs and theatres during lockdown, that we don’t really need them at all. Yet this was the same logic propounded by Walsall’s council leader, Mike Bird, when he suggested he was considering whether, having done without libraries for so long during the Coronavirus pandemic, it is necessary to reopen them at all. This policy could be dismissed as a one-off act of local cretinism. However …”significantly, the strongest networks of libraries are typically found in countries with the most stable democracies.”
- North Wales GPs, libraries and hospitals to benefit from £8m roll-out of ultrafast broadband – Denbighshire Free Press. “The Local Full Fibre Network Programme will see a total of 350 sites across Denbighshire, Conwy, Gwynedd, Anglesey, Flintshire and Wrexham switch from copper-based network to high quality gigabit broadband.”
- Preston university scientists bring superheroes to life in book for children’s wards and libraries this Christmas – Lancashire Post. “The seven academics from the University of Central Lancashire have partnered up with the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and The Reading Agency to share their new book ‘Unmasked: The Science of Superheroes’, with libraries across the UK and children who are spending the festive season in hospital.” … “Public libraries throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will receive 7,000 free copies of the book.”
- Tier 4: Stay at Home – Gov.uk. “community centres and halls must close except for a limited number of exempt activities, as set out below. Libraries can also remain open to provide access to IT and digital services – for example for people who do not have it at home – and for click-and-collect services”
- Top Ebooks and Audiobooks from UK Public Library Authorities in 2020 – OverDrive. “Through the first 11 months of 2020, millions of ebooks and audiobooks have been borrowed from public libraries in the UK — a 66% increase from 2019. Ebook issues experienced the highest growth, 74% higher than this time last year. Audiobook issues also increased in 2020, 47% growth year-over-year. “
International news
- Global – A new language for the value and impact of libraries: Design and first findings – Christian Lauersen. “The method we are using builds on a huge British study, Understanding the Value and Impact of Cultural Experiences by The Arts Council England, which we have operationalized into a Danish library context”
- Lithuania – Lithuanian public libraries welcome people with autism – Naple Sister Libraries. “To help manage anxiety, calm down, and relax a special toolkit has been prepared for each of the public libraries. It consists of sensory-tent, tactile, audio, and visual aids. In addition, training for library staff on how to behave and help autistic children in the library have also been organized.”
- USA – Amazon Publishing in Talks to Offer E-books to Public Libraries – Publishers Weekly. “The potential deal would be a breakthrough moment in the library e-book market as Amazon currently does not make its digital content available to libraries. It would also be a major coup for the Digital Public Library of America’s upstart e-book platform and its SimplyE library reading app”
- Chattanooga library suspends protest leader C-Grimey to investigate burning of conservative books – Times Free Press.
- New Library Services Started in 2020 – David Lee King. “Lots of fun new services! Here’s my question – why did it have to take a global pandemic for us to start these things? “
- Ten Stories That Shaped 2020 – LIS News.
- They Will Kill Your Library, Too – Current Affairs. “The problem with public libraries is that while they are hugely popular, they are also in tension with the prevailing political and economic ideology, which suggests the government should run like a business, cutting costs and measuring the worth of every service by its market price. Libraries offer useless knowledge, the joy of intellectual discovery. “
Local news by authority
- Bradford – Call for ‘urgent review’ of library’s £420,000 a year annual rent – Telegraph and Argus. “Council has once again been criticised over the £420,000 it pays each year to rent space for City Library, with campaigners saying a better deal could safeguard the District’s libraries for years to come. And one Councillor called for Council bosses to hold an ‘urgent review’ of the facility’s costs.” … “The £420,000 annual rent had been a huge strain on the library budget, but last year the Council revealed that the lease costs had been moved to other Council budget pots, and would no longer weigh down the stretched library budget.”
- Caerphilly – Caerphilly libraries providing free sanitary products – South Wales Argus. “As part of their period dignity initiative, Caerphilly County Borough Council has made packs containing sanitary products available for free at all 18 of its libraries across the borough.”
- Cornwall – Free festive craft bags from Cornwall Council – The Packet. “Cornwall Council’s libraries team want to make sure that younger people don’t miss out this Christmas and are encouraging families to get creative at home. They have produced more than 600 festive craft bags that will be available from local libraries, as well as the council’s two mobile library vans.”
- Croydon – ‘What’s a library mummy?’ – South Norwood campaigners fear kids could grow up not knowing – My London. “Dozens of families came out to support their local library in South Norwood amid fears council cuts could see it closed for good.” … “More than 100 protestors gathered outside Pump House on Saturday, December 5. Libby Hamilton, whose petition to save the library has gained 2,600 signatures, said: “There was one little kid holding a sign saying ‘what’s a library mummy?’ – we really want our children to know what a library is and appreciate it.””
- Campaigners fight to save Croydon libraries from cuts – Sutton and Croydson Guardian. “Campaigners in Croydon are fighting to save the borough’s libraries from closing after the declaration of a Section 114 notice and “effective” bankruptcy from the council has placed them under serious threat.”
- Dozens of families come out in support of five Croydon libraries threatened with closure – London News Online. “Children’s author Laura Henry, creator of Jo Jo and Gran Gran on CBeebies, attended the protest. Afterwards, she tweeted: “I lived in South Norwood for 10 years. My sons and I practically lived in this library. “Libraries are the heart of a community and books and reading are super important.””
- Five Croydon libraries under threat… again! – Library Campaign. “The campaigns for individual libraries combined forces as Save Croydon Libraries campaign to fight the cuts more effectively in the past, and are already networking again. Friends of South Norwood Library has joined with Save Sanderstead Library campaign and there are plans for a campaign for Shirley library too”
- Save Croydon Libraries Campaign – SOS Library. Petition. “All these libraries merit saving. Some serve deprived or elderly communities. Some give easy access and offer parking as well as being on good transport links. They provide activities for the community, from birth onwards. We have fought to save our libraries before and we need to keep up the fight! Please sign and join the campaign!”
- Save South Norwood Library – Friends of South Norwood Library. “Croydon Council has said it could soon close South Norwood Library. In a bid to solve a £67 million gap in the budget, the council is making huge cuts across the council and is considering closing five local libraries. This means our current library would be shut down, and our new library would close before it has even opened.”
- Flintshire – Aura Libraries Flintshire: best books of 2020 ranked – The Leader.
- Glasgow – Knightswood library to open to residents next year – Clydebank Post. “Glasgow Life has announced plans to reopen 12 libraries across the city as part of a phased approach to bringing community facilities back into use.”
- Glasgow Life reveals festive opening hours for all venues – Glasgow Evening Times. “Alongside museums and sports facilities, 11 Glasgow Libraries have re-opened and are operating reduced opening hours.”
- Leicestershire – Library facility could be brought back to village as parish council venture – Leicester Mercury. Council library closed in 2016, volunteer library possibility if funding found.
- Northamptonshire – Christmas not shelved as Father Christmas pops into Earls Barton library – Northampton Chronicle. “Volunteers at Earls Barton Library and Community Centre were delighted that St Nick will take time out of his busy schedule to meet visitors to the Broad Street hub. Cally Palôt-Watts, secretary of Earls Barton Library and Community Centre, said: “In an effort to bring some joy to a, potentially, very lacklustre Christmas in our village, we hosted a visit from Father Christmas on December 13 and [will host another] again on this Sunday, December 20.”
- North Yorkshire – Free Christmas goody bag scheme at North Yorkshire libraries – Gazette and Herald. “North Yorkshire libraries are inviting children aged four to 11 to read four books or borrow a “book bundle” from their local library. In turn, they can collect a free goody bag including stickers and activities, and there’s also a special treat for pre-schoolers in participating libraries.”
- Support stepped up over Christmas for North Yorkshire residents – Planet Radio. “Libraries are closed between Christmas and New Year. “
- Pembrokeshire – Pembrokeshire library reservations service expanded – Western Telegraph. “Customers can place up to two reservations for books and audiobooks, which are available and in stock at libraries”
- Powys – Elias twins relish reading to win Builth book prize – County Times. ” “We wish to thank the Friends of the Library for donating the £5 book tokens to be spent at Verzon Books in Llandrindod Wells.””
- Rochdale – Rochdale Digital Tech Library goes from strength to strength – Rochdale Online. “The next phase, with support from Public Health and Rochdale Borough Housing funding, is to upscale the Digital Tech Library. By working in partnership with Rochdale Council’s library service, the consortium will be able to expand its offer to reach more people. This includes having some digital devices for loan in the libraries that are currently open across the borough, which will enable people to access free wi-fi and support to get online.”
- South Lanarkshire – Library services reopened in South Lanarkshire – Carluke Gazette. “Libraries across South Lanarkshire have reopened after the area moved from Level 4 of the Covid-19 restrictions to Level 3 on Friday”
“I would like to start by paying tribute to all librarians and other staff working in the public library services across our nation, and of course in my constituency of Stockport. Research tells us that public libraries are a vital part of our social infrastructure. They empower and equalise our communities. They strengthen communities, improve digital inclusion, and help with everything from physical and mental health to cultural engagement, literacy, diversity, inclusion, and of course education. I am incredibly proud of the library staff in my borough of Stockport. They do an important job and are a key part of our community. The Central Library in the heart of my constituency is grade 2 listed, internally and externally, and is one of the original Carnegie-funded libraries, built in 1913. My town has a beautiful heritage and iconic buildings, from the Victorian viaduct, to the Central Library, to the outstanding Underbanks.
Sadly, a combination of covid and years of central Government underfunding have forced many local authorities to close public libraries and reduce the offer available to communities. Of course, public health must come first and foremost, but we must recognise the positive impact that public libraries make on the wellbeing of our constituents. It is evident that we need a fair financial settlement from the Government so that local authorities can continue to support libraries and all public services. I welcome the statement made earlier in the Chamber, but, as ever, the devil is in the detail, and we need to make sure that the funding is made available to all councils rather than to specific shires. I have a record of campaigning against Government austerity policies over the past decade, and this terrible pandemic has highlighted the need to support our local authorities properly.”
Stockport – Navendu Mishra MP
- Stoke on Trent – Christmas gifts and online festive fun at museums and libraries – Stoke on Trent Council. “Stoke-on-Trent’s libraries are running their click, call and collect service. As part of this, the libraries are also creating Christmas book bundles for children – with a range of festive options available for families to borrow. Librarians are also putting on a series of online activities for children and families to help everyone get in the festive spirit, including Christmas story times, craft sessions and sing-along events. These will all be available via Stoke-on-Trent Libraries’ Facebook page …”
- Tower Hamlets – Help shape the future of Tower Hamlets’ library service – Let’s Talk Tower Hamlets. “Until now, Tower Hamlets has kept all its libraries and Idea Stores open in the face of continued government cuts which have seen 778 libraries close nationally since austerity was introduced a decade ago. Continued government changes to council funding and the Covid-19 crisis mean the council has to save £30m by 2024. This is on top of £200m already saved since 2010. You can find out more in our budget consultation. To do this, savings have to be made across the council including reducing the cost of the library service, which is £4.4 million a year. The savings proposed will deliver savings of £1.6 million.”
- Worcestershire – There’s plenty to see and do at Worcestershire libraries this Christmas – Redditch Standard. Free poems: “Libraries in Redditch, Bromsgrove, Droitwich and Worcester are hoping visitors will use the service to reconnect with old friends or to simply let someone know they’re loved.”
Well, thank goodness 2020 is almost done
Dec 13th
Editorial
Well done everyone, you’ve almost survived what is doubtless a contender for one of the worst, or at least most memorable, years of your life. Make sure you’re ready for the holidays, stay safe and try to ignore the all-but-certain likelihood of a third Covid wave combined this time with – fun! – Brexit chaos in some shape or another. Libraries survived 2020 and I am sure they will 2021 as well.
There’s a couple of good news stories below as well as, sadly, a could of cases of libraries closed down due to positive Covid tests. My favourite story is the absolutely hilarious response from Walsall councillors in response to people reporting the words of their leader who, you’ll remember, closed down all his libraries and then questioned whether he should reopen them being no-one was using them. The councillors are shocked that such words were seen as suggesting that they may be considering closing a library or three. They also accuse reporters of twisting words. Alas for such an accusation, reporters quoted the leader verbatim. Merry Christmas to you Walsall councillors, you’re hilarious.
Changes by local authority
- Norfolk – Hunstanton Library may be replaced in property deal.
- Sheffield – £700k to set up BIPC.

National news
- Delivering Public Engagement Digitally – Carnegie UK Trust. “The Engaging Libraries programme supports public library services across the UK to run public engagement activities on research within the themes of health, society and culture. It is funded by Wellcome Trust and Wolfson Foundation, and delivered by the Carnegie UK Trust. This digital learning leaflet shares what has been gleaned from the delivery of digital public engagement activities by two Engaging Libraries projects during the height of the coronavirus pandemic and first national lockdown.”
- Libraries are vital to tackling loneliness – Municipal Journal. “Research conducted by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) in Manchester found more than 80% of library users who experience feelings of loneliness or isolation felt the library helped combat these feelings. The survey also indicated that respondents felt the library served as an information hub and community centre, providing visitors with an opportunity to meet others and engage in social activities.” … “Engaging Libraries Phase 2 is supporting 16 public library services across the UK to run public engagement activities on research within the themes of health, society and culture. It is designed to help facilitate partnerships between public library services and researchers, and spark people’s curiosity around topics that are relevant or interesting to them.”
International news
- Japan – Libraries in Japan install machines that would disinfect books using UV light – International Business Times. “A number of libraries in Japan have now installed machines that will sterilise books using ultraviolet light. This would give their visitors that peace of mind knowing that a book that they would take out from the library would be free of viruses and they can avoid the risk of bringing the virus with them to their homes and families. Many libraries across the country are already installing the machine, which would take half-a-minute to sterilise a book. Aside from sterilising the book, it also flutters the pages to ensure that dust is cleared.”
- USA – Why Some Libraries Are Ending Fines – Atlantic. “The last five years have been very busy in the world of overdue fines. In what has been the “Fine-Free Movement,” many librarians have begun to question the traditional policy of overdue fines, and attitudes have begun to change. Are fines consistent with a fundamental mission of libraries: to serve the public with information and knowledge? And to address that mission equitably across the diverse population of rich and poor library users?”. Comprehensive guide to the USA progress towards going fines-free.
- Bookish: Natalie Portman to chair National Library Week – Yahoo Sport. “The Oscar-winning actress will serve as honorary chair of National Library Week, the American Library Association announced Monday. National Library Week runs next April 4-10. Portman will help promote the role libraries have played in their communities during the pandemic.”
Local news by authority
- Aberdeenshire – Activities for all the family offered as part of Aberdeenshire Winter Words initiative – Evening Express. “The Winter Words initiative is known as being purely a libraries-based event. However this year physical and cultural activities are included, widening the offer.” … “Activities include requesting a Book Bundle from your local Click and Collect library, and downloading eBooks, eAudiobooks, eNewspapers, eMagazines and music.”
- Buckinghamshire – Marlow Library £300k refurb revealed – Maidenhead Advertiser. “The £330,000 investment in Institute Road includes a bigger children’s space plus comfortable seating and new books. The computer facilities have also been upgraded and there is a new meeting room, self-service technology and loanable tablets to use.”
- Cambridgeshire – New scheme to support SMEs through Covid-19 launched by Cambridgeshire and Peterborough libraries and the British Library – Cambridge Network. “Open to all UK business owners, Reset. Restart offers practical, jargon-free training and advice through a free, tailored programme. The scheme is delivered nationally by the British Library with local support from Cambridgeshire & Peterborough BIPC.”
- East Riding – East Riding Libraries free ‘At Home’ service for customers within the community who are unable to get to the library because of disability, illness or transport – Bridlington Free Press. “The libraries have also partnered with Tigers Trust to expand this popular service by offering a free delivery and collection service for those who are isolating, shielding or affected by Covid-19 and unable to get to their local library.”
- Glasgow – The Green View: Campaigning to help the people in our city works – Glasgow Times. “Greens have also been campaigning since the spring for the re-opening of our beloved libraries, community centres, gyms and swimming pools. There have been incredible community campaigns like the weekly ‘read-ins’ outside Pollokshields Library, where local residents put out banners, and when they were taken down came back with even more creative protest methods.” … ” Glasgow Life announced at last that 12 more libraries will open by the end of March, assuming restrictions allow. “
- Glasgow Life announced at last that 12 more libraries will open by the end of March, assuming restrictions allow – The Extra. “The charity, which runs culture and sports facilities for the council, will reopen the libraries between January and the end of March. Those selected include Govanhill, Langside, Pollok and Pollokshields. Others opening are in Anniesland, Cardonald, Castlemilk, Dennistoun, Hillhead, Knightswood, Riddrie and Springburn.”
- Gloucestershire – Christmas Delivery: Every Gloucestershire School and Library Receives ‘AnimalKind’ – Peta. ” over 100 copies of PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk and Gene Stone’s book AnimalKind have been delivered to secondary schools and public libraries in Gloucestershire.”
- Inverclyde – Youngsters can pick up Christmas ‘crafternoon’ packs at Inverclyde libraries – Greenock Telegraph. “Festive craft kits are available through the Connect and Collect service. The packs, aimed at youngsters aged three to 12, are full of materials to make Christmas creations, and also contain a selection of festive books.”
- Inverclyde Libraries to run two festive Bookbug sessions – Greenock Telegraph. Zoom.
- Lambeth – Libraries open for gift donations as council plays Santa for Covid-hit families – Brixton Blog. “All Lambeth libraries are open until 19 December for donations of toys and books for local children who might otherwise not get a Christmas present. Council staff will deliver the presents.”
- Leeds – Leeds Libraries give help to small businesses – Ilkley Gazette. “Leeds Libraries has received funding to develop and extend its existing regional service to support partner library services across West Yorkshire in Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield.”
- Norfolk – Bus station to make way for flats, library and shop space – EDP. “King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Borough Council had put forward a proposal to repurpose the existing bus station and demolish the library on St Edmund’s Terrace in Hunstanton. ” … “Their scheme included 47 flats in two blocks, a new, larger library and space for retail or service units. “
- Portsmouth – Carnegie, Paulsgrove and Alderman Lacey libraries reopening – About My Area. “Cosham Library is currently closed for major refurbishment and will reopen in April.”
- Powys – Lockdown reading inspires Llanidloes children – Powys County Times. ““Just tell us what sort of books you like, or who your favourite writers are, and we’ll find something that you want to read. We’ll pack them, and have a bag of books ready for collection.””
- Team of the year prize for Newtown Library staff – Powys County Times. “Newtown Library has won joint first place for the Welsh Library Team of the Year Award.”
- Sheffield – British Library gives cash to help South Yorkshire businesses – The Star. “The historic London library is giving more than £700,000 to Sheffield Council so it can expand its Business and Intellectual Property Centre.”
- South Gloucestershire – Bradley Stoke Library closed following positive coronavirus case – Bristol Post. “The council said the staff shortage was down to the fact staff were having to self-isolate because of the potential contact with a colleague who tested positive”
- Staffordshire – Gruffalo author Julia Donaldson to join events at Staffordshire libraries – Staffordshire Live. “… online sessions with the author of classic children’s books such as The Gruffalo and Stick Man Julia Donaldson will be part of the series of online Christmas activities. Also on the activities line-up will be fellow former Children’s Laureate and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt author Michael Rosen.”
- Stockport – Stockport libraries to reintroduce book browsing service – In Your Area. “The book browsing service which allows visitors to borrow books in person via the self service machine will resume in libraries from across Stockport, Greater Manchester.”
- Suffolk – Ipswich County Library closes after staff member gets coronavirus – Ipswich Star. “A member of staff at Ipswich County Library has tested positive for coronavirus, forcing the service to close until next week.”
- Walsall – Library closure claims dismissed by Walsall Council bosses – Birmingham Mail. “Councillor Garry Perry, portfolio holder for community, leisure and culture, dismissed reports they won’t reopen adding there is no “closure list” and that the review was looking at extending the offer.” … “The focus next year will not be on buildings, it will be on offering a library service that extends its outreach into our communities beyond the physical building.”
- ‘Do we really need it?’ Council leader questions library service after months of closure – Guardian. “Walsall’s council leader has been asked to retract comments he made about the region’s libraries, closed for much of the year due to the coronavirus, of which he said: “I’m a firm believer that if we haven’t used something for the past four or five months, do we really need it?”” … “Nick Poole, the chief executive of librarian body Cilip, said he was “concerned and disappointed” and called on Bird to retract the comments publicly.” … “Kit de Waal, an award-winning author who grew up in Birmingham, also slammed Bird’s comments. “If they’re going on recent months’ activity then clearly that’s a travesty. They could be using the pandemic as an excuse,” she said.” … “The charity Libraries Connected also stressed the importance of professionally run libraries for Walsall.”
- Warrington – Youngsters urged to take part in winter reading challenge with LiveWire – Warrington Guardian.
- West Dunbartonshire – Dalmuir library offering Christmas craft packs for children – Clydebank Post. “The packs include all materials and instructions needed for a Christmas craft, as well as a festive library book for some holiday reading.”
- Worcestershire – Normal service resumes at city libraries – Worcester Observer. “Customers will be able to browse shelves and borrow books using self-service kiosks, return books in person, pre-book public computers and pre-book a desk in the library for study and/or wi-fi access. The mobile library service will also resume and county council chiefs hope to bring further services back into libraries in early 2021.”
- Wrexham – Wrexham Library Service: coffee table books for lighter reading – The Leader. Regular weekly article promoting services.

The worst nightmare, plus some ancient history from CIPFA
Dec 6th
Editor
The leader of Walsall Council, who has kept all his libraries closed, is arguing that because no-one is using them any more they’re not needed. Presumably, he’ll go on to close all the schools and, shockingly, find they’re not used any more and make the obvious budget-saving decision there. Or he could shut himself away for a few months. Seriously though, this was a fear that the library sector has had since the first lockdown happened – that cash-strapped councils will notice that the world does not end when libraries close. Of course, that ignores all those people whose quality of life and opportunities are damaged, but if you can make a statement like “I’m a firm believer that if we haven’t used something for the past four or five months, do we really need it?” with a straight face or no headaches then I’m sure such a loss would cause you no sleepless nights. Or painful thinking.
That time of year – December – has come when CIPFA releases figures for library usage and budgets from April the previous year to March. That always felt like awesomely delayed reporting in normal years but, now in 2020, the report reads like a chronicle from past times. As a historical document, it’s very interesting, with the lowest number of library closures I can remember for example, but really it’s a pointless exercise. Other than proving, of course, that the way library data is collated and published needs serious revision. If you want to see the data, provided free to CIPFA by local services who want to give it, the statistical agency will be happy to sell it you at a ridiculously high, indeed prohibitive, price. If you do that, let me know. I have a bridge in London you may want to buy. After all, I’ll only need to barricade it off for four or five months and no-one will be using it.
Changes by local authority
- Buckinghamshire – Marlow Library refurbished.
- Cheshire West and Chester – Fines no longer charged for Under 13s.
- Cumbria – Kendal Library being refurbished
- Nottingham – Sherwood Library to be rebuilt, in property deal
- Tower Hamlets – Potential £1.6m out of £4m cut (£1m cut previously reported)
National news
- Caroline Dinenage, Libraries Minister’s speech at the Libraries Connected Day Seminar – Libraries Connected. ” I have been impressed by the positive and quick reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic by the sector … it has been moving to hear about the amazing work you have done … My department has been a strong advocate for libraries during COVID and has secured some notable exceptions for library services to the restrictions that have been imposed … I will work across local and central government to continue to encourage a ‘libraries first’ approach … we must build robust, systematic, and consistent data and evidence”
- COVID-19 and Communities Listening Project: A Shared Response – Carnegie UK Trust. Includes several mentions of libraries.
- CWA Dagger In the Library – Crime Writers Association. “The CWA Dagger in the Library is an award for which librarians nominate an author. The Dagger in the Library is a prize for a body of work by a crime writer that users of libraries particularly admire. Only librarians can nominate authors for the award. It is one of the most prestigious crime writing awards in the UK”
- Libraries in the pandemic: Evolving services to meet local need – Libraries Connected. “A summary of findings from our recent Libraries in Lockdown report as well as new evidence from other organisations to demonstrate the difference that libraries made to their communities during this crisis.”
- Local Cultural Education Partnerships and Libraries: A partnership webinar – Libraries Connected. Thursday 10 December, 1.30pm.
- Service recovery toolkit – December 2020 Word – Libraries Connected. “This Service Recovery Toolkit has been prepared in consultation with Public Health England (PHE) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Updated 02.12.20”

CIPFA
- Library spending fell by £20m in 2019/20 amid warnings of further cuts – Bookseller. “Data released by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance & Accountancy (CIPFA) following a survey of local authorities showed spending fell 2.6% from £744.8m in 2018/19 to £725m in 2019/20.” … “It also showed the number of mobile and static libraries fell slightly to 3,667 from 3,685 in 2018/19” … “total paid staff falling 2.4% from 15,300 to 14,925 year-on-year. In the same period, the number of volunteers reduced by 2.6% from 51,478 to 50,128 but their total hours worked increased by 1.4%.”
- UK’s public libraries record another year of cuts, with yet more on the way – Guardian. “Falls in funding were matched by drops in borrowing, with budgets for next year set to fall by an average of 14%” … ” total funding for libraries in Britain down by nearly £20m in the year to March” … ” the number of books borrowed from libraries in the year to March 2020 – before the pandemic closed branches – fell by almost 9m year on year, to 166m. ” … “The number of borrowers was also down, the Cipfa figures revealed, to 7.3m from 7.5m the previous years, while the number of branches still open was 3,667, down by 18 from the previous year. “
“GLL libraries together serve a population of 2,032,700 people. The recently published CIPFA figures for 2019-2020 show that in total, GLL libraries issued 3,042 books per 1,000 population, 20% above the English average of 2,535 books per 1,000 population.
Wandsworth Libraries issued more books than any other London authority during 2019-20. The service issued 1,383,740 books, and was 1st in London for the 3rd year in a row. Bromley Libraries moved into 2nd place in London, issuing 1,295,592 books. And book issues in Greenwich Libraries increased to 864,046 books (7th highest in London): we were delighted with this, as Greenwich Libraries were 29th in the London rankings in 2012 when GLL took over the management of the library service on behalf of the Council.
Out of London, the picture is good, too, with Dudley issuing 850,728 books (the highest recorded figure in the West Midlands authority. Lincolnshire Libraries made progress with book issues, too and is in the top 20 counties for the first time.”
GLL press release
International news
- Bangladesh – Innovations and Adaptability in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Library and Information Science (LIS) Professionals in Bangladesh – IFLA.
- Global – The most stunning bookshops and libraries around the world – Metro. “From super modern design in Germany to JK Rowling’s real-life inspo for Hogwarts, we’ve rounded up some of the most awe-inspiring bookshops from across the globe”. Includes The Library of Birmingham.
- USA – Public Libraries Can Help Companies Survive The Coronavirus Crisis – Forbes.
- Amazon Publishing in Talks to Offer E-books to Public Libraries – Publishers Weekly. “The potential deal would be a breakthrough moment in the library e-book market as Amazon currently does not make its digital content available to libraries. It would also be a major coup for the Digital Public Library of America’s upstart e-book platform and its SimplyE library reading app”
- Can a Patron Who Gets Sick Sue the Library? – American Libraries.
Local news by authority
- Aberdeenshire – Aberdeenshire sports facilities and libraries to close over Christmas and New Year – Grampian Online. “Sports facilities and libraries across Aberdeenshire will close from 2pm on Christmas eve, reopening on January 5.”
- Blackpool – These are the Tier 3 Blackpool Council services changes you need to know about – Gazette. Some libraries limited to essential IT use only.
- Buckinghamshire – Buckinghamshire libraries set to welcome back customers – Advertiser. “Book borrowing, computer hire, printing and information services will be available”
- Marlow Library ‘transformed’ after extensive makeover – Maidenhead Advertiser. “Marlow Library has ‘transformed’ into a ‘modern and attractive’ space as it prepares to reopen to the public after lockdown this week. Following months of work to remodel and refurbish the building, the library, in Institute Road, will welcome people back on Saturday. The new library boasts improved computer facilities, a new meeting room, self-service technology and loanable tablets. There is also a bigger children’s space with bold colours, comfortable seating and bean bags. The children’s space also features a new sensory wall, an ‘oasis’ where children can indulge in study times while enjoying inspirational surroundings.”
- Cheshire West and Chester – West Cheshire libraries set to reopen – The Standard. “Cheshire West and Chester Council has confirmed that libraries will operate on temporarily reduced opening hours – apart from Chester Library at Storyhouse – for browsing and computer access. There will also be a temporary replacement mobile library service for Malpas, Tarporley, Tarvin and Tattenhall.” … “Libraries will also be fine-free for under 13s from that date. Children aged 0-12 years will no longer be charged for any overdue items and any pre-existing late charges will be removed from their accounts.”
- Go Online for Festive Library Cheer – About My Area. “Every day at 4pm, a new door is opened on The Great Christmas Countdown advent calendar. In addition, each day will reveal craft ideas, cookery demonstrations, books suggestions, Christmas rhymetimes and songs. There will also be two special storytime sessions with guests Father Christmas and Mrs Claus who will be reading very special stories.”
- Croydon – Save South Norwood Library – Change.org. “South Norwood has double the average number of people who identify as Black/African/Caribbean/Black British compared to the average in Croydon. That means the closure of this library disadvantages black lives.”
- Save Croydon libraries – Change.org. “Bradmore Green, Broad Green, Sanderstead, Shirley and South Norwood libraries are under threat again”
- Cumbria – Kendal Library refurbishment plans to get underway in January – Cumbria Crack. “In addition to redecorating the library, new dedicated teaching spaces will be created for community learning and skills courses, improving the library’s ability to support community groups and activities whilst maintaining an excellent collection of books and other resources for the community to access.”
- Dorset – Dorset Council libraries to reopen with different hours – Daily Echo.
- Durham – Will County Durham swimming pools, libraries, parks and markets reopen in Tier 3? – Chronicle. “No, libraries will remain closed for browsing but the pick and collect service will continue to operate. Library members from across the county can borrow books using the service, with collection points located at branches in Barnard Castle, Consett, Newton Aycliffe, Shildon, Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Crook, Peterlee, Clayport in Durham City, Chester-le-Street, Spennymoor, Seaham and Stanley.”
- East Riding – Here is the latest Tier 3 restrictions information covering East Riding Museums and East Riding Libraries – Bridlington Free Press. “East Riding Libraries and Customer Service Centres: East Riding Libraries will continue to offer their ‘Order and Collect’ service – customers can either phone their library or order books online at library.eastriding.gov.uk, and then collect from their specified East Riding Library once available.”
- Edinburgh – Edinburgh Libraries – four more to reopen in December – Edinburgh Reporter. “Craigmillar, Drumbrae, Gilmerton and Wester Hailes … There are already six libraries which have been open since 6 October 2020 at Central, Fountainbridge, Kirkliston, McDonald Road, Newington and Stockbridge.”
- Lincolnshire – Grantham library operating a click and collect service in tier 3 – Grantham Journal. Click and collect, computer use only.
- Manchester – O2 to help Manchester’s most vulnerable with local device donation drive – Web Wire. “Manchester libraries will act as drop-off venues, so please bring your old unwanted working phone there.”
- North Yorkshire – Libraries reopening in North Yorkshire but advice is to ‘check before you visit’ – Keighley News. ““We have made a lot of changes to the way we work, with the safety of customers, staff and volunteers our main priority.”
- Nottingham – Nottingham firm wins race to develop Sherwood mixed-use scheme – Business Desk. “In exchange for the value of the land, a new library will be provided, which will be more energy efficient and economical to run. The arrangement means that the council will lease back the library on a long-term lease, but retain ownership of the new car park.”
- Reading – Tilehurst Library reopening next week – Reading Chronicle.
- Rutland – Library services in Lincolnshire and Rutland resume – Stamford Mercury. “Oakham Library will return to its pre-lockdown operating hours, opening on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9.30am to 2pm and Saturday from 9.30am to 1pm. However branch libraries in Uppingham, Ketton and Ryhall as well as Rutland County Museum and Oakham Castle will all remain closed, subject to further changes to Covid restrictions in England”
- St Helens – Leisure centres, gyms and libraries reopen in St Helens – The Reporter.
- Sheffield – Sheffield Council says it does not have budget to save historic library building at risk of disposal – The Star. Tinsley Carnegie Library: ““The property needs a considerable amount of investment in order to bring it back into use and the council does not have a budget for undertaking that work. But if a group thinks it can find the finances to do that then we would obviously look at that.”
- Somerset – Somerset’s libraries set to re-open from Wednesday – County Gazette. ““One customer contacted us recently to say she managed to find a job as a direct result of borrowing one of the iPads we have available in selected libraries for jobseekers, so we know that libraries are providing really valued support to people in need.””
- Suffolk – Libraries: A Harbour from the Storm Built on Fragile Foundations – Pulse. From Bruce Leeke, CEO of Suffolk Libraries. “It’s time the narrative about libraries changed before it’s too late. No community service has such a powerful reach and the genuine ability to change and shape lives. But without direct financial intervention from central government that recognises the unique ability libraries have to address some of societies biggest problems, the foundations will crumble. Their existing impact and future potential will be lost in the throes of more local authority cuts, leaving communities nakedly facing the power of the storm.”
- Surrey – Surrey Libraries Presents A Riding Lights Theatre Company Christmas Play – Surrey Libraries. An on-demand 45 minute theatre show available to view until 4 January.
- Surrey libraries to re-open next Monday – Surrey News. Browsing, click and collect, PCs, reservations, home library service.
- Swindon – Steam museum, Swindon libraries and register office open under Tier 2 rules – Swindon Advertiser. Click and collect.
- Tower Hamlets – Threats to close Bethnal Green and Cubitt Town public libraries as council faces Covid crisis – East London Advertiser. “A people’s survey has been started over the threat of public libraries closing and cutting opening times at Tower Hamlets Ideas Stores which are faced with a quarter of their budgets being axed.” … “Savings include shrinking the £4.4m annual purse that is bookmarked for library services, town hall sources admit. That could mean £1.6m wiped from the libraries budget.”
- Walsall – Walsall libraries to stay closed as council leader launches review – Express and Star. “It operated a “ring and read” scheme from July until the lockdown started on November 5, when all services including the mobile library were suspended.”
- Warrington – Keep children busy with the winter reading challenge – Warrington Worldwide.
- West Berkshire – West Berkshire libraries to reopen under Tier 2 restrictions – Newbury Today. Browsing, PCs, mobiles.
- Wiltshire – Wiltshire libraries and history centre plan for reopening this week – White Horse News. Browsing, computers.
- Wokingham – Lower Earley Library Opens For The First Time Since March – Reading.co.uk. “Wokingham, Woodley and Lower Earley library buildings will reopen from Monday 7 December, following the end of the national lockdown and the introduction of new Tier 2 (High) restrictions. All will operate at reduced hours, enabling them to deliver an in-person library service in the safest way possible.”
- Wrexham – Wrexham Library Service: deliver your letters to Santa – The Leader. “We have been busy planning with Santa to accept your letters and forward them on to him this year. You can post them at Wrexham and Rhos libraries and collect your replies from there too. However, we have to be a bit more careful this year, so you will have to make an appointment to post and collect them. “
Here we go again
Nov 29th
Editorial
There will be a strong sense of deja vu in English public libraries this week, as they are allowed to reopen for browsing after the semi-lockdown of the last month. As before, each council will make its own choices about exactly how far it reopens its services so there is likely to be some variation, but basically many (normally not all) libraries in each council will offer browsing and PC access. Most services now have experience of click and collect so it will be interesting to see how many continue with that as well. What’s different than the first reopening is that libraries are already prepared and know what they’re doing. December is also traditionally a very quiet month.
It’s very much worse than before, though, for Croydon, who effectively declared bankruptcy last week and say they will cut services to a “bare legal minimum”. It’s hardly been a fantastically funded service before, having only recently gone back to the council after being run by the now defunct Carillion, and a veteran of some fairly serious cuts over the last decade. The fear is, as well, that Croydon’s announcement will be the first of many such elsewhere in the country.
Rishi Sunak’s announcement of £4 billion, including specific mention of capital budgets for libraries, has largely been met with scepticism online. Many point out that existing libraries barely have sufficient funding, with hundreds closed or passed to volunteers since the Conservatives took over a decade ago. The devil, as with most big funding announcements, will be in the detail, but one should expect at most a few nice library projects to come from this. It will more likely long-term be seen as, at best, a slight tinkering to improve the government’s public relations, than as a step-change in library provision. It is, after all, hard to be overly optimistic about it in a week when an entire council pretty much goes under, with more expected.
Changes by local authority
- Croydon – Cut to “bare legal minimum” library service warning.
- Pembrokeshire – New co-located Pembroke Library consulted on.
- Warwickshire – Kenilworth Library refurbished.

National news
- Libraries & The First Minister’s Reading Challenge – SLIC. “If your library is taking part in the Reading Challenge, we would love to hear from you about how you are promoting reading in the current climate and anything we could do to support you.”
- Library Campaign – Includes info about public libraries, useful contacts, news and views, how to start and maintain a friends or campaign group, list of local groups, publicity tools and links to the back issues of the Library Campaign magazines. “We’ve worked really hard to provide something that gives all the most essential info (including of course a link to you!) in one compact, easy-to-use site without having to fight through a jungle of info,
accessible to people who don’t know about libraries but also quite
useful to those who do. Nothing else like it.” - On the level – CILIP 2020 Spending Review analysis – CILIP. “the decision to go ahead with a public-sector pay freeze (exempting NHS workers and people earning less than £24,000) will impact on millions of exactly those public sector workers that have worked incredibly hard to get the Nation through COVID” … ” it is hard to see how a complete freeze is justifiable” … “Unfortunately, today’s Conservative Government can’t just write off the impact of austerity. As a result, this isn’t a budget for levelling up so much as levelling off the deep scars inflicted by George Osborne’s 2010 austerity budget”
“While much here is welcome, and the wheels are already in motion to ensure that publicly-funded libraries (such as public libraries, schools and prison libraries) get a fair share of the investment funding that is being made available, we must now apply ourselves with determined effort to ensure that the next Spending Review marks a genuine turning-point in the recognition of the potential of our sector to help communities everywhere level up, not just for the short term, but long after 2020 is a distant memory.”
CILIP
- Out of the frying pan? Libraries post pandemic – Libraries Connected. “We asked our members what they were expecting next year. Many are facing a triple whammy of budget reductions, loss of earned income and the increased costs of running COVID secure services. Some have already publicly announced cuts …Libraries that know their budget position for next year have reported an average reduction of 14%. Income this year is down by 75%, and COVID security has used up another 4% of budgets. These figures are bleak … Library budgets have been reduced so much over the last decade, even small reductions now will have large impacts on what they can deliver.”
- RNIB: Keep the RNIB Giant Print Library Open – Change.org. “RNIB has always had a truly excellent, free library service for children offering Giant Print, Braille and Audio books. They are now planning to close the Giant Print part of the library as they state that large print books can be bought elsewhere and that children can use electronic reading devices.”
- Scotland becomes first country to make tampons and pads available for free – ABC 11. ” period products will be available to access in public buildings including schools and universities across Scotland. ” … “In 2019, it allocated another 4 million to make period products available for free in libraries and recreational centers.”
- Spending Review: Partial public sector pay freeze and ‘levelling up’ fund for libraries – all the key pledges – I. “Mr Sunak announced a pay freeze for all those working in the public sector next year but said this would not apply to NHS doctors and nurses, who will still receive a pay rise.” … “A new £4 billion “levelling up” fund to finance local infrastructure improvement projects – such as new motorways or libraries.”
International news
- Canada – Halifax’s fine-free library program prompts return of long overdue books – Signal. ““Our best friend is someone who will make the effort to return a book after 30 years,” the library posted on its Instagram account. The library implemented a fine amnesty program in August when it reopened after the COVID-19 lockdown. It eliminated overdue fines, forgave existing fines and reset blocked library cards. A few months into the program, the library posted a picture of the book on Abraham Lincoln with a date due slip that showed it was borrowed last in February 1990.”
- Germany – How German Librarians Finally Caught an Elusive Book Thief – Atlas Obscura. “A photograph of Schild, looking roguish in a suit and tie, still hangs in the Regional Library of Oldenburg. It’s on a bookshelf behind the information desk, next to the printer and some dictionaries. The photograph is out of the way and unmarked, and could even be mistaken it for a keepsake. Only library staff know that it’s a warning.”
- Sri Lanka – Books by bike: Sri Lankan man runs mobile library for kids – Independent. “During his leisure time, Mahinda Dasanayaka packs his motorbike with books and rides his mobile library — across mostly muddy roads running through tea-growing mountain areas — to underprivileged children in rural parts of Sri Lanka”
- USA – The Library That Dolly Built – Imagination Library. “”The Library That Dolly Built” is a feature-length documentary, covering the history, impact and future of Dolly Parton’s world-wide book gifting program. Featuring the music of Dolly Parton, the film is narrated by actress and author, Danica McKellar.”
- 10 people share why they’re thankful for libraries – I Love Libraries. ““I believe libraries are sacred places. They hold the history, science, and imagination of the ages. From first holding a book which I could read on my own, at age four, to now seventy fours years later, I have discovered information, travel, novel perspectives, the past, innovative ideas, and so much more. My life has been enriched beyond measure.””
Local news by authority
- Aberdeenshire – North-east libraries to begin offering click and collect services – Evening Express.
- Birmingham – Has Britain’s second largest city reached breaking point? – Guardian. “The Library of Birmingham cost £188m, which the city couldn’t afford – and led to cuts in opening times, staff and books at libraries across the city and even the shiny new centrepiece itself. “
- Croydon – Should Libraries and Parks suffer because of council’s incompetence – Thornton Heath Chronicle. “The council has already frozen all non-essential spending and no overtime is allowed. A voluntary redundancy scheme has been set up with staff also being offered reduced hours and flexible retirement schemes. The monthly cost of agency staff running in to £2million much of which is spent on social workers has also been frozen until the end of the financial year.” … “The borough’s five leisure centres and three sports facilities also face an uncertain future as the 15-year leisure contract the council signed with GLL could be in jeopardy because of Covid.”
- Croydon council outlines drastic cuts to jobs and services – Guardian. “The Labour-run council, which in effect declared itself insolvent earlier this month after revealing a £67m hole in its budget, said it would in future adopt a bare legal minimum approach focused mainly on providing social care and refuse collection services.”
- Devon – Charity fraud accountant who stole £47,000 ordered to repay £1 – BBC. “After moving to Libraries Unlimited, she stole increasing sums of money including £4,688 in January 2019, £12,178 on 11 March and a final sum of £26,659 on 25 March.” … “Judge David Evans, who imposed the suspended sentence in June, ordered Bruce to repay the nominal sum of £1, but told her she would still be liable to repay the money if she acquired any assets in the future.”
- Let’s get this Mobile Library on the road – Just Giving. £8419 from 93 supporters raised so far.
- East Riding – Reading Well for Children scheme at libraries helping with mental health issues – Pocklington Post.
- Fife – Fife libraries close to browsers as ‘click and collect’ service relaunched – Fife Today. Click and collect.
- Flintshire – Aura Libraries: doors to your local and digital Flintshire library are open – The Leader. Digital, click and collect.
- Glasgow – Save Our Libraries marks 40 weeks of fighting for answers over future of South Side libraries – Glasgow Times. “Residents living near Langside, Govanhill and Pollokshields libraries have been staging weekly read-ins outside the buildings in a bid to show how important they are to communities. But despite months of petitioning Glasgow Life for answers about when the three local hubs will reopen, the Save Our Libraries campaign groups have been met with silence.”
- Gloucestershire – Get books from Stroud, Stonehouse & Nailsworth libraries – Stroud News. Click and collect, bookable PCs.
- Inverclyde – Read piece penned exclusively for people of Inverclyde by crime writer Alex Gray – Greenock Telegraph. “The Glaswegian crime writer has produced an article for the council’s libraries service discussing the importance of reading, how vital it’s been during the pandemic, sharing childhood memories of going to the library and exploring some of her favourite home-grown reads.”
- Manchester – Urgent Book Gifting Appeal – Manchester Central Library Development Trust. “This Christmas, please make a donation to support the Read Manchester and Manchester Libraries Book Gifting initiative. By donating to this appeal you will be helping us to get books and resources to children and families in Manchester who need them most.” £670 raised at time of checking on Wednesday 25 November.
- North Yorkshire – Libraries resume services after temporary closures – Harrogate News. “The libraries closed temporarily last week after a member of staff in each tested positive for Covid-19. The buildings have been given a deep clean and staff who needed to have self-isolated.”
- Library-goers will be welcomed back into North Yorkshire libraries on Wednesday (December 2) – North Yorkshire County Council. “Customers will be able to browse for and borrow their own books and use public computers. The select and collect book borrowing service and Home Library Service will also continue. “
- Pembrokeshire – Pembrokeshire libraries reintroduce reservations – Western Telegraph. “Customers can place up to two reservations for books and audiobooks, which are available and in stock at libraries in Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock and Tenby.”
- Have your say on Pembroke’s new library – Milford Mercury. “The new Pembroke Library will be part of the planned major redevelopment of the South Quay site in the town. As well as the library, the development is proposed to include the Henry Tudor Visitor Centre, café, community rooms and garden.”
- Sheffield – Explore seven great new Sheffield ideas to learn and have fun – Sheffield Telegraph. “Historian David Price, the author of the popular book Sheffield Troublemakers: Rebels and Radicals in Sheffield History is speaking on Zoom as part od the Libraries Sheffield-run Rebel Season of online talks.”
- Service Updates – Libraries Sheffield. “Our online reservations service will be ‘live’ again from Monday 23rd November. From this date, you will be able to make online requests for books that you would like to read, and when they arrive at your library, have them included in your ‘Order and Collect’ selection ready for collection. At the same time, to help you relax during lockdown, you may now include up to 2 DVDs and up to 2 music CDs in your selection as well as the 5 books, at no charge. “
- Wandsworth – Wandsworth library book returned after 56 years – from a church in Greece – London News Online. “Due back on 16 October 1964, the novel ‘Previous Convictions’ by Cyril Connolly was returned with a handwritten note from a Mr Johnson from Athens, who wrote: “This book was in our church library. I’m not responsible for the fine!””
- Warwickshire – Makeover for Kenilworth Library will give it ‘fresh and bright look’ for 2021 – Leamington Courier. “The library will have a complete refurbishment with a new layout, new furnishing, shelving and carpet to give it a fresh look, and it will be completely redecorated with many improvements. Reorganising the layout will make the best use of the space available … The last time Kenilworth Library had a major refurbishment was in 2005”
- Inspirational residents urged to share stories – Leamington Observer. “Warwickshire Libraries is holding ‘Our Story, Your Story’ online in partnership with Libraries Connected and the BBC’s ‘Novels That Shaped Our World’.”
- West Dunbartonshire – West Dunbartonshire Libraries run Early Years Literature Festival for Book Week Scotland – Clydebank Post. “Tales for Tots is West Dunbartonshire Libraries’ Early Years Literature Festival which runs every November during Book Week Scotland. The festival is part funded by Scottish Book Trust’s Live Literature Fund.”
- West Sussex – Public Library Research. “This research is for my PhD thesis in Information Studies. This study has three different stages which work together to help me to explore what the public think about public libraries, including how they are used, managed and legislated. This first stage is specifically looking at how the public value the different services public libraries provide and will focus on West Sussex.”
- Wrexham – Wrexham libraries open for order and collect service – The Leader.
A successful pivot
Nov 22nd
Editorial
This week saw the CILIP Conference which was, of course, delivered digitally for the first time ever. Having it online was remarkably painless, with an excellent system in place and a lot of very good behind-the-scenes admin work to make it all run smoothly. It felt a lot smaller than normal in turns of sessions but the verdict at the end was that it was a successful conference, although there was some disappointment that the recorded sessions would only be made available to conference attenders.
The session I spoke at was on libraries during lockdown, with two chief librarians (Kathryn Boothroyd of St Helens and Emma Noyce of Hampshire) and Isobel Hunter of Libraries Connected. All were remarkably open and honest about the pain of this year and the challenges ahead. Budget cuts are looming and small libraries are looking vulnerable, especially as so many have stayed closed so much of this year plus also users now expected an enhanced digital offer while at the same time no reduction in the physical at the same or reduced budget. But, on the other hand, it was clear how wonderfully libraries had boosted what they do online, and also in their outreach to the public, to an extent that I think no-one had a right to expect before the crisis. Nick Poole said it best…
By the way, this was the only time – so far – that two dogs (which were assisting me by demanding walks, food and hugs while I was sat on my sofa attending the conference) got a mention in the introduction to the afternoon sessions.
But, away from the joys of dog ownership and the feel-good of the conference, the dark clouds are looming, with another serious cut announced in Bexley and outbreaks of Covid being reported in two public library services. So will the pivot of libraries in 2020 be enough to stave off bad news elsewhere? Well, that’s the true test of how successful this pivot has been. Stay tuned.
Changes by local authority
- Barnet – Hendon Public Library may move into new building, with old one being converted into a business school
- Bedford – DCMS minded not to intervene in cuts.
- Bexley – £570k cut plus 28 out of 68 posts lost, opening hour cuts, increased staffless libraries. Funding withdrawn from 6 volunteer libraries. New libraries proposed for Thamesmead and Sidcup.
- Doncaster – Central Library to close and move into Danum Gallery, Library and Museum.
- Hertfordshire – St Albans Library refurbished.

National news
- A Chicago story with lessons for libraries everywhere – Guardian. “Chicago is not the first US library system to experiment with abolishing fines. But it is by far the largest. And the result, so far, has been that the libraries have got back most of their lost books, more people have started reading and more people from poorer areas now use the service. Relying on trust rather than punishment might sound utopian, but it works.”
- Councils bid for vaccine role – LocalGov. “It said civic centres, sports halls, libraries, athletic stadiums, car parks and other council-owned facilities could be brought into rapid use to help the health service.”
- Host your Zoom call ‘in Blickling Hall’ thanks to new National Trust venture – Eastern Daily Press. “Rather than having a photo of your nan behind you in a Zoom call, the National Trust has picked out Blickling Hall’s library instead. … The library is one of just six rooms from National Trust properties across the UK selected for people to use. Others include libraries at Greenway House, Devon, home of Agatha Christie, Wimpole Hall, Cambridgeshire and Sissinghurst Castle in Kent.”
- Libraries Connected Day Seminar – Libraries Connected. Wednesday 2 December, 11.15 to 16.30. “Libraries are an essential part of the local economic, social and cultural recovery from Coronavirus and this seminar aims to help library leaders to demonstrate the value they bring, and to advocate for their work.”
- Local Cultural Education Partnerships and Libraries: A partnership webinar – Eventbrite. Thursday 10 December 1.30pm. “In this webinar which will be opened by Dr Darren Henley OBE, we’ll be sharing great examples of partnership working and explore together how we can grow links between libraries and LCEPs across the country.”
- Marcus Rashford launches book club so every child can experience ‘escapism’ – Guardian. “The Manchester United and England footballer is working with Macmillan Children’s Books (MCB) to promote reading and literacy among children from all backgrounds, and he talked about his own lack of access to books as a child.”
- Modernise your library communications – British Library Living Knowledge Network. Wednesday 25 November, 11am. “Using examples and ideas from libraries and other cultural organisations, discover practical tips for modernising your marketing and developing a fresh tone of voice at this free webinar. Plus, learn how to effectively use video and audio to support your communications, from writing a brief to creating a finished product.”
- Service Recovery Webinar – Libraries Connected. Tuesday 23 November 1pm. “managing services in periods of restrictions, emerging from restrictions and building back, lessons learned for the future”
- TLC calls on Risha to pays what’s owed – Library Campaign. “Libraries have long been used to fill the gaps in many other public services. It is time they were funded to do it. They cannot go on making bricks without straw indefinitely. “
- Universal Library Offers Calendar 2021 – Libraries Connected. “Key dates for libraries in 2021.”
- You’re booked! Marcus Rashford puts U.K. government to shame again with ‘book club’ to promotion childhood literacy — DHT Sport News.
International news
- Australia – The Australian Libraries and Information Association and National Archives band together against disinformation – Canberra Times. “”I’d like to see a recommendation that the federal government work with the Australian Media Literacy Alliance to develop a national policy strategy, a framework and action – a call to action – for media literacy.”
- From lockdown to Block Town: Local libraries serving Minecraft to kids – Particle. “LibraryCraft is a Minecraft server run by a group of libraries from across WA. John Geijsman, the early childhood programs officer at Fremantle Library, started a small Minecraft server for his Coder Dojo in October 2019.”
- Thank Freak libraries reopened – Writing Sparks. “Libraries are a great equaliser in our community, throwing their doors and services open to anyone who needs them, including book-devouring country kids like me. So, this Thank Freak goes out to libraries and to the wonderful, dedicated folk who staff them. Thank-you for providing books and so much more”
- Finland – Åbok, Turku’s own Book-Tinder – Turku City Library. “Åbok (which went by the name “Book-Tinder” during processing), is an online service that helps the library’s customers find new and interesting reading and provides the opportunity to browse the shelves virtually.”
- Netherlands – The hospitable library of the future – Designing Libraries. Huis Van Eemes “The House has an important core function for the village, combining two extremes: the peaceful surroundings of the library and the dynamics of the sports and culture centre”
“The editors of Library Journal need your help identifying the emerging leaders in the library world. Movers & Shakers profiles up-and-coming, innovative, creative individuals from around the world—both great leaders and behind-the-scenes contributors—who are providing inspiration and model programs for others, including programs developed this year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. From librarians and non-degreed library workers to publishers, vendors, coders, entrepreneurs, reviewers, and others who impact the library field, Movers & Shakers 2021 will celebrate those people who are moving all types of libraries ahead.”
Movers and Shakers 2021
- USA – D.C. Public Library Wants To Build Bigger Neighborhood Branches In Communities Without Easy Access – DCist. “One of the main things on the D.C. Public Library wishlist: replacing four of the smallest branch libraries — Northwest One and Rosedale in Ward 6, Deanwood in Ward 7, and Parklands-Turner, currently located in a leased storefront, in Ward 8 — with newer, bigger buildings that can offer meeting rooms, study space, greater access to technology, and spatial separation between book collections for different age groups. “
Local news by authority
- Barnet – Barnet library could become Middlesex Uni business school – Times Series. “Barnet Council wants to move Hendon Public Library in The Burroughs to a new building across the road, claiming in a report this would “significantly improve” the service.” …”the council report says moving to a new building would “facilitate the provision of a broader and enhanced library offer” and give the library “enhanced visibility”.”
- Moving Barnet library an ‘exciting opportunity’ – Times Series. Head of libraries says ” it does not necessarily make a particularly good location for the delivery of a modern, public library service. Having a modern building gives an opportunity to design a library service for today and the future. We will have more space than the current site, and it gives us an opportunity to provide a wider range of services from that building.” [Worth looking a the councillor photo – he is wearing a bow tie and has an actual curled moustache, pointing upwards – Ed.]
- Bedford – Local inquiry into library provision in Bedford – DCMS. “The Secretary of State has considered whether to intervene by ordering an inquiry under the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964 (the Act) into the changes in library provision in Bedford. For the reasons set out below, the Secretary of State is currently minded not to order such an inquiry to help determine whether the agreed changes will offer a comprehensive and efficient library service.”
- Bexley – Heavy cuts planned across Bexley Council libraries – Murky Depths. “Staff will be cut from with 28 out of 68 posts being lost. The cuts would see the main library in Bexleyheath close on Sundays alongside evening closure throughout the week and self service only in the mornings.”
- Caerphilly – All Caerphilly libraries set to reopen for ‘Order & Collect – Wales 247.
- Carmarthenshire – Carmarthen Library – Designing Libraries. Refurbishment.
- Cheshire West and Chester – Northwich and Winsford libraries in click and collect scheme – Winsford and Middlewich Guardian.
- Budding Winsford authors invited to creative writing workshops – Winsford and Middlewich Guardian. “All courses will take place online using the Zoom video calling app, and there will be a maximum of 15 free places on each course, with registration taken on a first come, first served basis.”. Shared with Liverpool.
- Cornwall – Library of All Things, Penryn launches Crowdfunder appeal – Falmouth Packet. “While regular libraries lend books, a Library of Things lends everything from tools, to kitchen equipment, camping gear and so much more. Members of the community can join for a small annual membership fee and borrow items.”
- Cumbria – Town library is ready to open its doors again – Town and Star. Click and collect, PC bookings.
- Doncaster – Doncaster Central Library to close its doors after 51 years later this month – Doncaster Free Press. “The library, in Waterdale, will close on November 27 to allow staff to transfer books over to the new Danum Gallery, Library and Museum, which is due to open in 2021.” … “There will be no building access to the public but it will be open for returns and collections, with customers urged to use the order and collect service to reserve books.”
- Ealing – Former libraries boss returns to Ealing cabinet in a fresh reshuffle – MyLondon. “A former libraries chief who led consultation over possible library closures has returned to the authority’s top team in a fresh reshuffle. Councillor Kamaljit Dhindsa has been appointed as business and community services lead, re-joining the cabinet after his parks and libraries role in the 2010 administration.”. Labour says ““The appointment of Cllr Dhindsa is especially worrying given when he was previously a Cabinet Member in 2011 he tried to close our libraries and unleashed the full wrath of our residents.””
- Hertfordshire – A modern and fresh Forbo outlook for St Albans Library – Specification Outlook. “The renovation of St Albans Library, Hertfordshire’s busiest library, is part of the council’s plans to gradually update all of the libraries in the county. With an improved children’s area, IT and study facilities, low-level shelving to overlook the city’s skyline, as well as the development of a new CreatorSpace, the flexible library now provides visitors of all ages the opportunity to get creative, develop new skills and borrow books. “
- Highlands – Highland Library submission included in Future Book – Strathspey Herald. “The future book will be distributed for free in Scottish libraries and has also been recorded as an audiobook which can be downloaded online.”
- Hull – Libraries staying open during Hull’s coronavirus crisis labelled ‘ridiculous’ – Hull Daily Mail. “Residents have slammed the “ridiculous” decision to keep libraries open after an alleged case of coronavirus. They claim a member of staff has tested positive for Covid-19 but the library in Bransholme remains open. Other staff members within the “small building” are said to have not been to isolate at home with library users saying “staff are almost definitely coming with a metre of each other””
- Lancashire – County council chiefs back White Ribbon Day – Champion News. “There will also be White Ribbon Day displays at the entrances of Skelmersdale, Accrington, Burnley, Chorley, Colne, Fleetwood, Lancaster, and Preston Harris Libraries. These libraries are currently open between 10am and 2pm and 2pm until 4pm, Mondays to Saturdays, for people to pick up and drop off pre-ordered books at the entrance. “
- Leeds – British Library partners with Leeds Libraries on a weekend of events exploring women’s rights and gender equality in Leeds – Yorkshire Evening Post.
- Leeds Libraries joins with national programme to help small businesses thrive during the pandemic – Yorkshire Evening Post. “Reset. Restart is open to all owners of small and medium sized UK businesses and offers practical, jargon-free training and advice through a free, tailored national programme delivered by the British Library, with localised support available from BIPC Leeds, part of Leeds Libraries.”
- Moray – Elgin Library to reopen next week – Northern Scot. “The reopening is being piloted in Elgin and, if there’s a successful response and all safety procedures are operating as expected, Moray Council will look to reopen Buckie, Forres and Keith libraries in the same way in December. Others are expected to open for browsing and PC use during January. Customers won’t have to book an appointment to browse or borrow books when Elgin Library reopens on Monday, November 23, but to ensure safety, they are being asked to keep their visits to no longer than 20 minutes, as numbers inside the library will be capped.”
- North Yorkshire – Libraries in Harrogate and Knaresborough temporarily closed after Covid-19 outbreak among staff – Harrogate Advertiser. “A coronavirus outbreak has forced the closure of libraries in Harrogate and Knaresborough.”
- Salt of the Earth: Meet Sarah Jacques who volunteers at Ripon Library – Harrogate Advertiser.
- Pembrokeshire – New Neyland library to offer order and collect service – Pembroke Today. “From last Friday (November 13), the library has begun accepting orders for the service, which is already available at libraries in Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Narberth, Newport, Pembroke, Pembroke Dock, Saundersfoot and Tenby.”
- Perthshire – Major cash boost for Scotland’s oldest public lending library – Daily Record. Innerpeffray “The library, situated between Crieff and Auchterarder and dating back to 1680, is to receive £36,425 from Museums Galleries Scotland’s Recovery and Resilience Fund”
- Portsmouth – Cosham library in Portsmouth to shut for repairs until next spring – The News. “Cosham Library will shut its doors on Monday and is not expected to reopen until April after roof repairs, redecoration, electrical work and layout improvements have taken place. It is one of only a handful of city council libraries that was open during this lockdown.”
- Sheffield – Sheffield library continues to provide access to key services during second lockdown – The Star. Volunteer library “Although currently shut for browsing, the lobby at Jordanthorpe Library is open for people using the order and collect service while the book delivery service, which was initially introduced in April to reach elderly customers who were in need of a novel but unable to leave their homes, is also running.”
- Torfaen – Libraries in Cwmbran, Pontypool and Blaenavon reopen next week – Free Press. Limited browsing and returns, PC booking.
- Wiltshire – Malmesbury Library continuing to support residents despite restrictions – Standard.

Calderdale cuts while York Explores
Nov 15th
Editorial
Sad news from Calderdale as the council, which has cut a fair bit before, is aiming for more budget reductions to its libraries. This is in the same week as Conservative council leaders warn that a third of them (of which Calderdale isn’t one – it’s Labour) are considering cuts to libraries. Just when you thought 2020 couldn’t get any better, eh? In other news this week, Blaenau Gwent are merging library buildings with other services.
Also in this post, Fiona Williams from Explore Walk talks about their plans. Fiona broke ranks at the start of the second lockdown to talk to her local newspaper and is currently aiming to partner with a mini golf company, so I thought it would be interesting. While there are cons as well as pros to having libraries run by independent trusts, being able to speak to the press or explore fundraising options are evidently not barriers for them. The Head of eServices at Munich Public Libraries also updates us about the situation, very familiar, in Germany.

Changes by local authority
- Blaenau Gwent – Libraries to become multi-service “community hubs”.
- Bradford – £220k for replacement and extension of self-service.
- Calderdale – 8 libraries (Greetland, Hipperholme, Mytholmroyd, Ripponden, Shelf, Skircoat, Stainland and Southowram) to close or become volunteer.
- Devon – Uffculme Library being refurbished.

“This is long term planning, but very exciting”: A few questions answered by Fiona Williams, CEO of Explore York
You “went public” and put in the press you hoped libraries would stay open. Is this something you have more freedom to do as Explore rather than when the library service was run by a council?
I think it is, yes. Before, I would have had to go through the council’s press office. Now, the reporter on the Press, who we have a close relationship with, rang me on Monday morning to ask what was happening. I was able to respond immediately with what we hoped. We do work closely with the council, but they don’t impose things on us. It’s an equal partnership and has become very strong and positive
Would you have preferred to stay open during lockdown?
I’m happy with what we are offering. To keep everyone open as normal would have been too risky I think and we wanted to ensure people are safe but can access PCs and books. For me, access to PCs is so important at no one else is providing this in lockdown and people not online are so disadvantaged. Explore is leading a city wide initiative to ensure everyone in York is online. We have 84 organisations signed up so far to work with us
How will you make sure York Explore has a “good” Lockdown 2.0?
We have redone our risk assessments and staff training so they feel safe in a covid secure space. We are working with partners such as CAB to help their clients in need of access to a PC. So we are reaching those most in need. I am keeping in touch with all our staff to ensure everyone is up to date with what is happening
Is there anything exciting planned for the future you can tell us about?
Well we are talking to a mini golf organisation about setting up a course on library lawn, which is the space next to our main York Explore Centre. The holes will all be themed to a particular part of York’s history. We are doing this whilst we plan for a major reinterpretation of the whole area of St Leonard’s. We are inside the Roman fortress and part of the medieval hospital of St Leonard’s. We have Roman walls, medieval walls, Anglian walls – something from every era of York’s history. We want to provide an exhibition space for the city’s archives and tell the story of the Walls. I’m very excited about this and we are working with a range of partners to realise it.
It will be for a period of 5 or so years and each hole will be around a period of York’s history. It should bring in lots of people, especially families – resident and visitors. We have a grander plan for the area around York Explore that involved an exhibition space for the archives as well as an introduction to York’s Walls. We want to use digital tech to reinterpret the whole area. We are in the original Roman fortress and the medieval hospital, so there are endless opportunities for activity and events. It will take a while to plan etc so this is long term planning, but very exciting. “
National news
- The Award for Civic Arts Organisations – Gulbenkian. £100k award and two £25k awards for showing work during Covid, libraries can enter.
- A celebration of culture and creativity in libraries – Libraries Connected. Friday 27 November 2pm. For library staff only.
- CollectionHQ Partners with PressReader to Provide Worldwide Digital Content for Library Communities in U.K., Ireland – Business Wire.
- Free Exhibitions ticket to the CILIP Conference – CILIP. “An Exhibition Only ticket gives you access to all of the suppliers in the Exhibition Hall, so that you can arrange meetings and find out about their products and services.”
- Launch of Libraries Connected’s Culture and Creativity Module – Libraries Connected. 27 November 2pm. “Then on December 10 we are running a joint webinar with the Bridge Organisations sharing best partnership practice between libraries and (LCEPS) Local Cultural Education Partnerships.”
- Libraries providing a lifeline: Libraries from Home – Local Government Association. “Lockdown has proved that libraries can extend their reach beyond borders and provide access to culture, learning and a means of connecting for people who may not be able to leave their homes.”
- Modernise your library communications – British Library Living Knowledge Network. Wednesday 25 November 11am webinar. “Using examples and ideas from libraries and other cultural organisations, discover practical tips for modernising your marketing and developing a fresh tone of voice at this free webinar. Plus, learn how to effectively use video and audio to support your communications, from writing a brief to creating a finished product.”
- Navneet Gidda: Libraries are London’s untapped Covid recovery resource – On London. ” not everyone in London can afford to buy books and those who turned to libraries during lockdown were met with closed doors.” … “Despite 72% of people in England saying that public libraries are important for their communities, our libraries are in a sorry state. Since 2010, there has been a 30% decline in spending on them” … “For many, libraries are virtually the only public space in the capital where everyone is welcome, and interactions are not heavily policed. For homeless people and those who live in poverty, libraries are the one place where they know they will get help and have a warm place to peacefully spend a few hours.”
“In the current crisis, libraries don’t just provide books, they also serve as a solution for unemployment, an antidote for mental health crises, and a respite from the rat race of life.”
Navneet Gidda is Communications Officer at think tank Centre for London
- Online library services still available during lockdown in Surrey and Hampshire – Planet Radio.
- Pandemic drives ebook and audiobook sales by UK publishers to all-time high – Guardian. “The format once touted as the future of reading has suffered six straight years of sales declines since peaking in 2014 but this year has been different, with sales home and abroad up 17% to £144m in the first half”
- Tory council leaders warn of severe cuts in England – Guardian. “Over half of its member councils were planning “moderate or severe” service reductions in adult social care, nearly a third were seeking heavy cuts to road repair budgets, and 33% were considering major savings in library services.”
- Vacancy – Digital Communications Officer – Libraries Connected. £30k pro rata for 15 hours per week, 12 months fixed term contract, available for homeworking.
International news
- Australia – All the Covid rules relaxed in Melbourne today – before more sweeping changes next week as the state enjoys its tenth day straight of zero coronavirus infections or deaths – Mail. Almost no cases in city. “From 11.59pm on Sunday, libraries, galleries, cinemas, gyms and museums have been allowed to open for Victorians with 20 people per venue. The limit will increase to 100 people from November 22.”
- Five things COVID-19 has confirmed about libraries – Libraries Connect State Library of Queensland. Prevent social isolation, promote digital inclusion, reach beyond the building, offer learning, creative and innovative.
“We relaunched our website in January, and that was probably the best thing we could have done – retrospectively – because this new website is much more aligned with how we want our physical space to feel to our patrons than it was before: welcoming, bright, spacious, engaging, open. Really a place to come back to for information and inspiration. That was part of our strategic planning even before the lockdown in March.
Something we then introduced very quickly with the lockdown was our free digital subscription with which patrons could gain access to all our digital materials. That was probably the most important reaction to having to shut down our physical branches. And we are very happy it was widely perceived, probably even by a new audience. E-books had already been quite a success at the Munich Public Library, but we saw a rise in digital usage and actually topped up our licences during shutdown. And we have no plans to cut down on our physical collection. We had a couple of thousand events last year – and we are actively exploring ways of bringing those events or new formats into the digital space.
Since our neighborhood libraries are open right now, we are also thinking about ways of using self-service technology (beyond self-checks) to expand our opening hours and do so in a safe and controlled way, maybe through open library technology. We have been very active on various social media channels over the past years, so nothing has changed in our social media output this year – a lot has changed wrt. content and interaction, of course.
We can already see financial cuts on the horizon, and we know that we will have to put a lot of thought into how to prioritize new projects, especially IT projects, in the coming weeks and months.”
Dr. Roland Poellinger
Head of eservices, being in charge of the digital strategy at Munich Public Libraries
- Global – International library leaders explore the purpose and future of libraries – CILIP. “With international contributions from Canada, Sweden, South Africa and the UK, each chapter critically presents a short leadership provocation regarding libraries and their purpose, and the book encompasses impact, service delivery, collections, and staff skills.”
- USA – Despite COVID Concerns, Library Measures Do Well at Polls in 2020 – Library Journal. Need to register to read.
- Chicago Public Library says eliminating fines has paid off – Chicago Sun Times. “After eliminating overdue fees late last year, Chicago Public Library employees saw something that made everyone smile: a jump in the return of books overdue for six months or more. About 1,650 long-overdue books were returned in each of the five months after fines were eliminated Oct. 1, 2019. Before then, about 900 overdue books were returned each month, according to the library. The library system typically collected between $800,000 and $900,000 a year in late fees. That money is gone, but library official said what’s been gained is more important: valuable books and patrons who might never have returned.”
- Musicians Mayfield, Markham plead guilty in fraud case – Independent. “Grammy Award-winning New Orleans trumpet player Irvin Mayfield and his musical partner, pianist Ronald Markham, each pleaded guilty Tuesday to a conspiracy to commit fraud charge stemming from their time with a charitable foundation that raised money for libraries.”
Local news by authority
- Aberdeen – Aberdeen library service gears up for Book Week Scotland – Evening Express. Events on Zoom: “They include workshops with graphic novel duo Metaphrog, a crime thriller event with Chris Brookmyre and Marisa Haetzman, local storyteller Pauline Cordiner for a special retelling of Norwegian folk tale Tatterhood and author Merryn Glover will be on hand to give advice to anyone considering writing their own life story.”
- Blaenau Gwent – Libraries in Blaenau Gwent could become community hubs – South Wales Argus. ” “The provision of community hubs across the county borough is very much part of the key strategic agenda that we are looking to take forward.”
- Bradford – £220,000 funding for equipment in Bradford’s libraries – Telegraph and Argus. Replacement and extension of self-service. “”Some Community Libraries are struggling to reopen services due to limited volunteer capacity and / or delays in host buildings opening.””
- Buckinghamshire – Buckingham Library reopens for ‘Request and Collect’ – Advertiser. Click and collect, essential booking for PCs.
- Calderdale – Calderdale visitor centres, libraries and activity complex to be axed in council cuts – Halifax Courier. “Councillors have approved more cuts totalling around £800,000 to make enough savings to balance its books from 2021-22.” … “The library closures – Greetland, Hipperholme, Mytholmroyd, Ripponden, Shelf, Skircoat, Stainland and Southowram – form part of £2 million of annual savings already proposed by the council last month.” … “But senior councillors re-iterated that options for others, including community groups, town and parish councils and volunteers, to run any of these services, including possible asset transfers, would be considered.”
- Devon – New look Uffculme Library will keep young bookworms reading – In Your Area. ” “With new shelving, paintwork, noticeboards, children’s tables and chairs and a new external returns box so people can take their books back outside hours, Uffculme Library is getting a significant facelift.” … ““We’re also pleased that the community has come together to support this project, which has been paid for by Tesco Bags of Help, an Investing in Devon Grant (Devon County Council), and Uffculme Library Friends.”
- Dorset – Dorset Council Libraries and TICs continue services during lockdown – Daily Echo. Click and collect, housebound library service.
- Durham – ‘Pick and collect’ scheme returns to libraries for lockdown – Northern Echo. Click and collect.
- Edinburgh – Edinburgh Libraries are celebrating Book Week Scotland – Edinburgh Reporter. “Prize-winning poet Michael Pedersen and, designer to the literary stars, Jon Gray are joining Edinburgh Libraries in Book Week Scotland to champion our virtual poetry party.”
- Fife – Fife library users urged to use click and collect to minimise COVID threat – Fife Today.
- Flintshire – Aura Libraries: welcome back – The Leader. “You can visit your local Aura library to browse and choose your own books, use a computer, or to print and access the photocopier. To use the computer you will need to make an appointment to visit so we can make sure there is plenty of room to keep everyone safe”
- Glasgow – Glasgow Life libraries see sharp fall in use post-coronavirus lockdown – Glasgow Evening Times. “This includes Ibrox Library, on Midlock Street, which saw a near 90% fall in traffic between August and September this year compared to an average between 2017 and 2019. ” … “Dennistoun Library welcomed 1494 people through the door in September compared to a past average of 5872; in the Gorbals there was a drop of 7714 during the same time period; Partick Library fell from 11,644 to 2753; Pollokshaws experienced a fall of 7257; while finally numbers in Shettleston dropped from 6183 to 2001. “
- Hammersmith and Fulham – Vacancy: Systems Officer – Hammersmith and Fulham Council. Half-time permanent £34-36k pro rata.
- Hertfordshire – Local libraries are dying, the lack of council funding is a shame – Watford Observer. “All libraries look like they need a serous paint job. The opening times never seem to be the same two days in a row, the books often look tired and tatty and are plastered in bar coded markings. ” … “You want to save your local library, then you need to shout up and be heard. There’s no room for bookishness and at the current rate of knots we will be Googling this strange concept in a few years’ time as we attempt to educate the grandkids and explain what a ‘librarian’ was.”
- Bishop’s Stortford library resumes lockdown Ready Reads programme – Bishop’s Stortford Independent. Click and collect, bookable PCs,
- Hertfordshire Libraries celebrate Explore Your Archives Month – Hertfordshire Council.
- Highlands – Highland libraries reopen to the public – Press and Journal. “The city facility on Farraline Park was formally closed by operators High Life Highland in March before a collect and return service was established in July. The library will now be open between 9.30am and 12.30pm and 2pm and 5pm five days a week, however the reference room will remain closed to public access.”
- Kent – Information on libraries, registrations and archive services in Kent this month – In Your Area. Click and collect, essential booking PCs, home library service, postal library service.
- Northamptonshire – Northants County Council service changes following lockdown 2.0 – About My Area. Click and collect, home library service.
- North Yorkshire – Here are the changes announced to Scarborough borough’s library service – Whitby Gazette. Click and collect, bookable PCs, home library service.
- North Yorkshire – Sherburn library recognised in coveted awards – North Yorkshire County Council. “our volunteers are at the top of their game”
- Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire libraries to offer new click and collect service during lockdown – Banbury Guardian. “Experienced and knowledgeable library staff will handpick up to six books that fit the interests and preferences given. There is even an option to select a surprise extra book – maybe something a little bit different.”
- Ten Oxfordshire libraries still missing reopening date since lockdown – Oxford Mail. Some annoyed that their local library does not offer click and collect. “She said: “The Friends of Burford Library are very active and we would’ve offered to reopen it ourselves on some basis.” … Adderbury, Bampton, Burford, Deddington, Grove, Hook Norton, Littlemore, North Leigh, Old Marston and Stonesfield did not reopen after first lockdown and there is not date for reopening as yet.
- Sefton – Uncover wartime secrets with Sefton at War – In Your Area. “To mark the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, Sefton Council’s Library Service has put together a special publication featuring stories from across the borough”
- Shropshire – Shropshire Council brings back library ‘Ready Reads’ = Advertizer. Click and collect.
- Wiltshire – Order and collect service still operating at library – White Horse News. Click and collect, bookable PCs.
Not like how lockdowns used to be
Nov 8th
Editorial
Well, that was nail-biting. Libraries finally knew what they were doing late on Tuesday for what they had to implement less than two days later, on Thursday. It turned out eventually that, like many things in this semi second lockdown, libraries will be far less closed this time than before. They will be able to, and many are, offer click and collect services, PCs “for essential purposes” (good luck defining that), home library services and one or two other things.
This has dismayed a few, such as Unison, who understandably worry for staff welfare. It’s worth pointing out though that the library service now is not what it was in March. There are plastic screens, hand gel, track and trace, stripped buildings, masks … the works. Indeed, the difference in safety levels between a highly risk-conscious library now and, well, any high street shop you can think of is stunning.
Strategically too, a quasi-open library service makes a lot more sense this time round. While it’s generally thought that libraries had a good first lockdown, the budget vultures will be circling like never before this year ends and to have thousands of branches entirely closed, dark and empty, may give them ideas. As it stands, libraries are able to make the case that they are being useful, and not just digitally, during this time and that may bring dividends later on. We can hope so anyway.
For the full breakdown of what is happening in every library service in the country click here.
- The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) (No. 4) Regulations 2020 – Legislation.gov.uk. 18 (1) allows click and collect, 18 (2) says “A person responsible for providing library services may open the library premises for the purposes of (a) support groups; (b) childcare provided by a person who is registered under Part 3 of the Childcare Act 2006; (c) education or training; (d) to provide essential voluntary services or public support services, including digital access to public services.”
Changes by local authority
- Northamptonshire – Raunds Library now volunteer.
- Tower Hamlets – £1m cut. Cubitt Town Library to close pending consultation. Watney Market and Bethnal Green Idea Stores to be closed for several months as being used by the NHS and then to reopen with reduced service. Sunday opening hours to be reduced.

National news
- Are libraries closing in second lockdown? – Express. [Inaccurate report on Monday] “Libraries provide a broad spectrum of services in the UK beyond books, with computers, food, drinks and advice to offer. But lockdown threatens them much more than they already are, given their potential to become a coronavirus hotspot. As such, the Government has zeroed in on them alongside a swathe of other services it deems “non-essential” for daily living.” … “The Government has lumped them in with leisure, hospitality, community centres and tourism in its second national approach to COVID-19. As such, they will have to close for the duration until the Government’s proposed review date on December 2.”
- Are libraries staying open during the second lockdown? – Metro. “Here’s what we know”. Details situation, including Wales and Scotland, as of Tuesday morning.
- CILIP calls for better use of evidence in HM Government’s COVID-19 response – CILIP. “The statement welcomes the new Regulations for public library services in England, which will see them able to continue to provide online and ‘click and collect’ services, as well as some public access to computers. At the same time, it calls on employers to work with library staff and Unions to ensure that service provision is ‘COVID-safe’, particularly in schools, colleges and Universities which will remain open under the new rules.”
“The Government is providing local councils with unprecedented support during the pandemic with a £4.3 billion package, including £3.7 billion which is not ringfenced and £600 million to support social care providers. This is part of a wider package of almost £28 billion which the Government has committed to support local areas, with funding going to councils, businesses and communities. The 2020 Spending Review will look at pressures facing the sector and provide them with the certainty they need to aid financial planning.”
Baroness Barran, The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport
- Coronavirus: What you can and can’t do after England goes into second lockdown – Sky News. “Leisure, hospitality and tourism businesses, community centres, libraries and recycling centres are all closed. Places of worship are shut except for funerals or wedding ceremonies.” [Not clear where the source for libraries is – Ed.]
- Covid: toddlers from UK’s poorest families ‘hit hardest by lockdown’ – Guardian. “Sally Hogg, head of policy and campaigning at the Parent-Infant Foundation, said: “Sadly too many of our young children live in poverty, poor housing and without stimulating toys and books at home. These results show the impact that the closure of libraries, playgrounds and drop-in groups had for these children.”
- Government clarifies if libraries, opticians and dentists will close in lockdown – Liverpool Echo. “According to Isobel Hunter, the Chief Executive of Libraries Connected, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport is still in discussion with Cabinet Office to confirm the position for libraries during the lockdown.” (Tuesday 4.23pm)
- Libraries That Are Local – Princh / Leon Bolton. “the library was local, enabling, as they do now, easy access for families, older people, teenagers, and jobseekers. In the intervening decades reading formats might have evolved, digital services developed, and service delivery changed but access to a local library remains as important now as it has always been.”
“A mistaken assumption amongst policy makers is to insist that libraries become ‘community hubs’, missing the essential point that local libraries are and have always been hubs of their communities.”
Leon Bolton
- Libraries Taskforce: six month progress report (October 2019 to March 2020) – DCMS. “The Libraries Taskforce ended as a formally constituted body on 31 March 2020 with the agreement of all members.”. Summary of last six months before then.
- Safety in libraries must be a priority – Unison. “Under the government guidelines, libraries can still provide some services such as access to IT and click and collect. Unison believes that even providing these services contains risks to staff and the public and that during this lockdown libraries need to close completely. “All parts of the UK have been experiencing increasing rates of infection,” said Unison’s head of local government Jon Richards. “We all love our libraries, but it is paramount that libraries play their part in reducing the risk of transmitting the virus. “And ‘closed’ must mean putting a temporary stop to all click and collect services and access to IT provision too.”
- Service recovery toolkit – November 2020 – Libraries Connected. Updated for Lockdown 2.0.
- ‘This is revolutionary’: new online bookshop unites indies to rival Amazon – Guardian.
- What’s On – Living Knowledge Network. Events that those services in the LKN are putting on. See also this link for past events, including video, that may be useful to posthumously promote.
- Will libraries be closing in the second lockdown? – Woman and Home. “Right now the situation is still not entirely clear when it comes to England’s libraries. However this does suggest that it might be possible for some libraries to continue to provide Click and Collect services safely.”
International news
- Australia – Burning the Books, by Richard Ovendon, is a chilling history of the steady destruction of knowledge, which continues today – Canberra Times. “Ovenden uses this in the context of the huge cuts imposed on English local councils by the Conservative government in the last decade. In 2010, there were 4356 public libraries in Britain, but by 2019 the number had fallen to 3583.”
- China – Chinese and British libraries look forward to new development – China Daily. “Chen Ying, deputy-director of the National Library, delivered a speech at the forum. She said libraries in China and the UK have adopted efficient measures since the pandemic’s outbreak, a positive contribution to the control of the epidemic. The present difficulty eventually will be conquered and the libraries will see new development.”
- Global – Library tales from here and there – CILIP ILIG. 18 November, 6pm. “Ayub Khan MBE and John Dolan OBE share their experiences of working together with the British Council and overseas Governments. What motivates developing countries and international institutions to invest in libraries? What are their aims and aspirations? What were the outcomes, envisaged and realised?”
- Ireland – Irish librarians call for action on the electronic content crisis facing libraries and library users – Library Association of Ireland. “Irish Librarians and library-related organisations call on the Irish Government, publishers and other stakeholders to recognise, and take action against, the electronic content crisis facing libraries and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. We are deeply concerned about the rising costs and unfair licensing conditions for such content”
- Norway – Kengo Kuma & Associates wins first prize for Ibsen Library proposal in Norway – Design Boom. Nice pictures. Article has no capitalisation because … style?
- USA – Connections Summit 2020 – SirsiDynix. “Connections Summit 2020 is finally OnDemand. Prepare to learn, be inspired, and even entertained! Easily browse and select presentations you missed or want to re-watch. Sessions are fast-paced and concise with most being 20 minutes or less.”
- Libraries, Publishers, and Readers: The Freckle Report 2020 – Go To Stage / Tim Coates. “The 2020 version Freckle Report covers two studies: a consumer survey that sought to discover how people get hold of what they read, and particularly where libraries fit into that; and a time study of ILMS data which shows how the data from the consumer survey is changing over time. A decline in per-capita visits to libraries is a noted finding, and the report makes several recommendations to reverse those trends”
- Vandalization at major libraries aims at voter intimidation – BookRiot. “In 2017 and 2018, a rash of vandals damaged library books and spaces with swastikas as a means of intimidating Jewish patrons. Now, on the precipice of one of the most consequential American elections, vandals have turned to voter intimidation in their crimes. Outside the Boston Public Library in Boston, Massachusetts, vandals set fire to an official ballot box … “
Local news by authority
- Bolton – Ten libraries to remain open during November lockdown for ‘essential services’ – Bolton News. Click and collect, PCs, schools and home library service.
- Calderdale – Select & Collect – Calderdale Council. “As part of the move to increase access to libraries we are now offering the Select & Collect service. Library staff will select a variety of stock based on your specification for you to collect from your chosen library. Once items are available to collect you will be asked to book a collection slot. Each of our libraries has careful social distancing measures in place to keep you and our staff safe.”
- Cheshire East – Borough’s children get chance to tell world leaders how they feel about climate change – Cheshire East Council. “The borough’s library service is running a year-long project for children, the results from which will be shared with organisers of COP26 – the United Nations climate change conference, due to take place in Glasgow, in November 2021.”
- Cheshire West and Chester – Covid lockdown: How the restrictions affect Cheshire West and Chester – The Standard. “All libraries, including the home and mobile library services. It is hoped that order and collect services will be made available from selected libraries. Existing loan periods have been extended to December 7 and overdue charges are suspended.”
- Denbighshire – Details of council services in Denbighshire which reopen after the firebreak – Rhyl Journal. Browsing, PCs, home library service.
- Dorset – Libraries and TICs close across Dorset – Dorset Echo. Click and collect, home library service.
- Flintshire – Aura Libraries: Stay Connected with Zoom Reading Groups – The Leader. “Our ‘Reading Friends’ Shared Reading Zoom sessions are suitable for adults of all ages and take place on every second Tuesday of the month from 11am-noon, with our next session scheduled in for Tuesday, November 10. We were delighted to host our very first online Children’s Reading Group last Thursday …”
- Hampshire – Hampshire library customers encouraged to click and collect – Southern Daily Echo. Click and collect.
- Hertfordshire – Coronavirus lockdown 2 rules: Are libraries open during second lockdown? – Hertfordshire Mercury. “the Government has revealed that Click and Collect services for ‘non-essential retail’ is permitted.”
- Kent – Kent library services to resume during Lockdown 2 this week – Kent Online. Click and collect, PCs.
- Leicester – Libraries to offer order and collect service for customers during lockdown – Leicester City Council. Click and collect, home library service.
- Lincolnshire – Library services to continue in Lincolnshire through November’s lockdown – Sleaford Standard. “All 15 core libraries and a number of community hubs across Lincolnshire will remain open”. Click and collect, bookable PCs.
- Manchester – Using Manchester libraries during the COVID-19 lockdown – Manchester Libraries Blog. Click and collect, returns, PCs.
- Norfolk – Norfolk Libraries to re-introduce borrowing rules – Planet Radio. “Since the lockdown began in March, all items borrowed from Norfolk libraries have been renewed automatically and users could keep up to 45 items at a time. From today, books will need to either be renewed or returned before the due date.”
- Northamptonshire – Team effort leads to a new chapter for Raunds library – Northants Telegraph. “Raunds library is now operating under the management of a charitable trust. The trust has worked with Northamptonshire County Council to set up a tenancy arrangement to allow the trust to start delivering valuable services again.”
- North Yorkshire – Changes at libraries, but book borrowing and computer use continue – Harrogate News. Click and collect, bookable PCs
- Pembrokeshire – Pembrokeshire library services to resume after fire-break – Pembroke Observer. Browinsg, bookable PCs, click and collect.
- Renfrewshire – Book lover Clare wins top national award for librarians – Renfrewshire 24. “The 38-year-old schools library support co-ordinator with Renfrewshire Leisure has won the 2020 Library and Information Professional of the Year Award. The award is made by CILIPS – Scotland’s Library and Information Professionals – and is sponsored audio digital publishers, Bolinda.”
- St Helens – St Helens residents reminded of alternative offers as libraries and leisure centres close – St Helens Reporter. Click and collect, home library service.
- Suffolk – What you can and cannot do at libraries during lockdown – East Anglian Daily Times. “All the libraries – except Stradbroke, which has a post office – have been classed as essential services”. Click and collect, bookable PCs.
- Surrey – Surrey Libraries to offer Click&Collect service across the County – Surrey News. Click and collect, bookable PCs, home library service.
- Telford and Wrekin – Libraries and leisure centres in Telford & Wrekin set to close again in new lockdown – Shropshire Star. ” borough council has confirmed that this week its libraries, leisure centres and popular ice rink are to close for almost a month in line with Government lockdown guidelines.”
- Torbay – Torbay readers can use new lockdown library services – In Your Area. Click and collect, home library service.
- Tower Hamlets – Agenda and decisions – Tower Hamlets Council. Watney Market and Bethnal Green Idea Stores closed for “for several more months” due to being used as Covid centres. Cubitt Town Library to be closed as too small.
- Wandsworth – Which public services are still open in Wandsworth over lockdown? – Wandsworth Times. Click and collect, returns, bookable PCs, home library service.
- Warrington – LiveWire’s Leisure and Library sites to close – but online services available – Warrington Worldwide. All closed.
- West Berkshire – West Berkshire libraries to close during Lockdown 2 – Newbury Today. Click and collect, home library service.
- Wiltshire – Wiltshire libraries to support residents during lockdown – Wiltshire Times. Click and collect, PCs.
- Wokingham – Wokingham: Libraries and leisure centres closed after new lockdown announcement – Bracknell News. “Following Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s speech to the nation on October 31, announcing a four-week-long nation-wide lockdown, the Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) has taken the decision to close down leisure centres across the borough, as well as closing the only two previously-reopened libraries, and encouraging residents to use the library services available online.”
- York – Some library services may be able to continue if they are declared ‘essential’ – York Press. “Fiona Williams, chief executive of Explore York Libraries and Archives, said it was still possible that library services may be categorised as ‘essential’ by the government – although it was not yet clear. If that did happen, some library services may be able to remain open after Thursday, she said.”
- Acomb, Tang Hall and York Central libraries will allow PC access – York Press. “Acomb, Tang Hall and York Central libraries will remain open from Tuesday to Saturday, starting from November 10 – but only for ‘essential PC’ use and to offer a click and collect service.”
Lockdown 2
Nov 1st
Editorial
So, it’s lockdown in England again. Let’s take a moment to reflect on that and how ironic some of the news below about library re-openings look now. Hear that screaming sound? No, not that one, that’s you. I mean the other one. That’s the sound of a whole sector desperately going into reverse gear.
How far into reverse gear though? Currently, it’s unclear what this exactly means for public libraries. The general assumption is that they will be closed for browsing but there’s a lot of grey area. Click and Collect for “non-essential retail” is explicitly allowed so one assumes libraries can do that but the word “library” is not mentioned. The Government has specifically found time to mention vape shops though, which kind of puts us in our place. I have also heard the possibility of PC use being allowed. But no-one really knows at this moment. I will tweet as soon as I do (@publiclibnews).
4 November: public libraries will close in England for normal business. However, “click and collect” services and PC use is allowed depending on local service discretion and circumstances. For more info, see this page.
Changes by local authority
- Bolton – £6.3m of Bolton Central Library, Museum and Archive inc. refurb and “flexible work-spaces for local businesses and groups” proposed.
- Cheshire East – Middlewich Library refurbished.
- Hampshire – Lee on the Solent Library to be taken over by volunteers.
Lockdown 2
- Covid-19: England gets ready for new four-week lockdown – BBC. “The prime minister said he expects the lockdown to last until 2 December, after which England’s regional tiered system would be reintroduced. But Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove told Sky News the lockdown could be extended beyond that deadline.”
- New National Restrictions from 5 November – Gov.uk. “Information on the new national restrictions, including what they mean for working from home and business closures, why they are being introduced and the financial support available.” … “Non-essential retail can remain open for delivery to customers and click-and-collect.”

National news
- The Boy Between: A Mother and Son’s Journey from a World Gone Grey – Reading Agency. “Bestselling novelist Amanda Prowse and her son, Josiah, tell their moving story and discuss the mental health crisis affecting young people.” … Free event 10 November 8pm. Please publicise in your social media for more popularity points with the Reading Agency.
- Bristol University Press announces the launch of new Library Advisory Board – Bristol University Press. “As a not-for-profit university press, we are committed to developing work that makes a positive impact in society and advances scientific research.” Ten academic librarians, international.
- CILIP Employer Briefing: Engaging Circular Economy principles for environmental and social value in libraries and the workplace – CILIP. 8 December 5pm online. “Ann will share her knowledge and experience on circular economy business models and how they can help libraries reduce their environmental impact.”
- Clare Hemsworth announced as Scotland’s Library & Information Professional of the Year 2020 – CILIPS. “Clare was nominated and has won the award for her excellent work within the school library sector and for her commitment to the profession. “
- Covid: toddlers from UK’s poorest families ‘hit hardest by lockdown’ – Guardian. “In the event of continued local lockdowns, it is vital that disadvantaged families are given extra support to promote children’s early development. Access to communal outdoor spaces and shared resources such as libraries should only be restricted as a last resort.”” Lockdown linked to disadvantage gap for babies and toddlers – Oxford Mail.
- How Adele and Jesse J put the beats into books – National Lottery. Get It Loud In Libraries featured. “The roster of GILIL artists who have rattled the bookshelves include a young singer called Adele, who was the support act at a gig at Lancaster Country Library in January 2007. She was booked after Kate Nash became unavailable at short notice.”
- An Introduction to Cataloguing – Arlis. Friday 27 November 1pm free webinar.
- Libraries, Publishers, and Readers: The Freckle Report 2020 – Book Industry Study Group. Webinar by Tim Coates. 1pm Tuesday 3 November. “A decline in per-capita visits to libraries is a noted finding, and the report makes several recommendations to reverse those trends”
- Public Library Apparel – Crowdfunded public-library themed clothes with some of the profits going to support public libraries now open for pre-orders.
- Online shop Public Libraries Apparel launches – BookSeller. “The launch of the venture was secured after 56 backers pledged £2,465 in total, enough for the shop to get up and running. ” … “One of the products–all part of the shop’s limited edition “1984” T-shirt collection, where only 50 of each unique design is available–features a screen print on organic natural recycled cotton urging “Protect your freedom” and “Use your library”. “
- Russell Tovey would sneak into libraries to look at pictures of naked men as a gay teen living under Section 28 – Pink News. “ovey, currently starring in the ITV thriller The Sister, revealed that as a teenager he would sneak into libraries to look at Tom of Finland’s homoerotic nudes, terrified he would be caught.”
- Service recovery toolkit – October 2020 Word – Libraries Connected. Updated, with information on tier levels and a new section on events and activities.
- Why lockdown was the plot twist that libraries needed – Guardian / Opinion. Krystal Vittles of Suffolk Libraries writes. Libraries had increased digital use during lockdown, with increasing online events. Staff phoned the vulnerable and volunteers delivered books. “There is a storm facing the country as it emerges from lockdown – made up of economic, social and health crises. I believe that all the services public libraries offer – digital and physical – will be needed to help communities weather this … nothing replaces the person-to-person connection found in a library”
- Working Towards Wellbeing: Public Library Services in Lockdown – CILIPS. “Public library services across the UK had a positive and supportive role to play during the Covid-19 lockdown. Our new research reveals that 3 in 10 adults (an estimated 15 million adults) engaged with public library services during lockdown. Of this number, 64% said it had a positive impact on their wellbeing; 63% said it helped them feel more connected to their community; and 60% said it helped them feel less alone.”
International news
- Australia – Loneliness in the Digital Age & Public Libraries – Jane Cowell. “Effective interventions are group based aimed at targeted audiences with shared interests. Having a learning outcome — something to do — also helps to break down some barriers and encourage participants to interact with each other. Empower the group to organise their own meet-ups in the library and to develop the group in their way. And remember one size does not fit all groups.”
- EU – Drawing exhibition: a collaborative activity from Public Library in Aleksandrów (Poland) and Viana Public Library (Spain) – Naple Sister Libraries.
- Digital strategy and innovation in libraries – Bibliotheca. Video of webinar inc. Danish and German library best practice.
- Finland – The brand new children’s mobile library Stoori invites visitors to adventure – Helmet. ” the mobile libraries bring library services to places where children and their families are, i.e. day care centres, schools and play parks. The routes for weekday evenings serve residential areas that do not have local libraries of their own.”
- Ireland – Ireland’s Beautiful Libraries Make Us Want To Curl Up And Read Forever – The Travel. A look at some very old Irish libraries.
- Library campaign aims to encourage people to keep reading virtually during lockdown – Independent. “After the demand for e-books and audiobooks more than doubled during the first lockdown, the campaign urges the public to keep using their local libraries virtually during Level 5 restrictions.”
- USA – What is Books to Treasure? – Tulsa Library. “Books To Treasure has grown into a Tulsa tradition for all second-grade students in Tulsa County. These youngsters receive a free copy of a treasured illustrator’s book, the chance to get their very own library card, and an opportunity to see the illustrator in person or, this year, online.” … “Children’s librarians and library staff typically visit schools in September and October to talk about the illustrator and talk about the importance of reading and the library. “
- Charlotte removes the name of a white supremacist North Carolina governor from a branch library – CNN. “Library officials conducted an audit of its 20 branches last year to identify items on display that represented racism and injustice. The results of that audit found 10 items that needed to be removed from public display along with the name change of one of the branches — The Morrison Regional Library.”
- City’s library system earns national honors – Cranston Online. ““The library supported the community through the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, pivoting to offer more than 200 virtual programs between March and June even as the buildings were closed for staff and patron safety, as well as offering tech help for students in distance learning and 3-D printing face shields for COVID testing center and senior facilities”
- Librarian, Read Thyself – The Rambling. ” library workers have been conditioned by professional precarity and gendered expectations to be, above all else, reactive to need” … “Librarians can’t be missionaries or saviors; we’re workers under capitalism. Our need, I think, is to better recognize ourselves as such and recognize that even if we’re lucky enough to have fulfilling jobs, we’re not exempt from sustaining or passing on capitalism’s harms. “
- Military Families and Public Libraries – EveryLibrary.
- This outdoor escape room brings the social-distanced fun – I Love Libraries. “Peters Township Public Library in Pennsylvania, who created a Google Doc-based Harry Potter escape room that anyone can play online. Wisconsin’s McMillan Memorial Library has taken a different approach: staff set up a no-touch, outdoor escape room that community members can enjoy while maintaining social distancing.”
- The Weight We Carry – American Libraries. “Vicarious traumatization (VT) occurs when we work with patrons whose traumatic stories transfer onto us …”
Local news by authority
- Bolton – Bolton museum and library gets a spooky makeover for half term – Bolton News.
- £25m plans to transform Bolton town centre revealed – Manchester Evening News. “£6,330,000 redevelopment of Bolton Central Library, Museum and Archive, which would expand the Aquarium, modernise the libraries and introduce flexible work-spaces for local businesses and groups”
- Cheshire East – Refurbishment sees Middlewich Library close for more than 6 weeks – Winsford and Middlewich Guardian. “The proposed work will include the replacement of windows, doors, fascias and boards that cover the ends of roof rafters, including the lobby entrance and canopy.”
- Cornwall – Cornwall’s libraries thriving as Covid lockdown sparks appetite for books – ITV News. “4,000 new members signed up to Cornwall’s library service over the summer.” … “”People really do care. There is an emotional attachment to libraries.”
- Durham – More Libraries To Reopen Across County Durham – Durham Magazine. “From Monday, 37 out of 39 libraries will have opened their doors “
- Edinburgh – Drag queen blasts critics of Edinburgh libraries story-time event – Edinburgh News. ““The event was well received but there was a hate element, who posted some vile and inappropriate comments which we had to remove. Unfortunately the performer has had threats of violence and has had to contact the police.””
“Campaigners with the Colchester Save Our Libraries Essex (SOLE) campaign have reacted with concern to revelations that more Post Office services may be moved into library buildings. A pop-up Post Office opened in Prettygate Library last week, and this week it was revealed that attempts had been made to move Post Office services into Greenstead Library also. Campaigners say such moves will diminish the existing library service, discourage library users, and not provide a suitable long-term solution for the Post Office. ”
Essex – SOLE press release
- Glasgow – Mitchell Library reopens to the public today for the first time since March – Glasgow Live. “As well as a new booking system, there will also be one-way systems, book quarantine and reduced visitor numbers.”
- Hampshire – Community library set to take over in Lee-on-the-Solent as team works to save facility marked for closure – The News. “independent community library the Lee Hub will take over running the facility in 2021, with the building to be transferred to Gosport Borough Council’s ownership.”
- Kirklees – Kirklees Libraries 8,000 + Lockdown Book Drop – Kirklees Together. “We decided that we could safely get our withdrawn library books that were currently in storage, out to people and the community through our links with third sector settings, volunteers and community action groups. We offered boxes of Kirklees Library Books in good condition, currently withdrawn from the library service. The books were quarantined for a minimum of 72 hours before being available for collection. Some books were delivered by Kirklees Community volunteers and included both fiction and non-fiction titles. The books were not intended to be loaned and returned, just given away.”
- Manchester – £110k digital inclusion scheme helps 400 Manchester residents get connected – Manclibraries Blog. ” The digital champions will be people who already form part of the council’s digital inclusion telephone support service, including staff from Manchester’s libraries, Citizens Advice, community organisations from across the city, and volunteers.”
- Neath Port Talbot – Neath Port Talbot residents get free access to books and magazines – Wales 247.
- Norfolk – New rules announced for Norfolk libraries – Lynn News. “A limit is being re-imposed on the number of times items can be renewed, while the maximum number of books that one user can borrow is also being cut.”
- North Yorkshire – Malton library ready to reopen following its refurbishment – Gazette Herald. “This refurbishment brings customers a range of benefits, not only in the form of excellent library facilities, but also a flexible space to allow the community to make best use of the venue and online access to an expanded range of county council and district council services.”
- North Yorkshire libraries make access to self-help books for those raising children – Craven Herald and Pioneer. “The Family Matters collection comprises books on subjects ranging from potty training and toddler tantrums to communicating with troubled teens.”
- South Craven Community Library at Cross Hills offers help to parents – Keighley News.
- Nottinghamshire – Covid-19: Nottinghamshire tier 3 to feature 9pm alcohol rule – BBC. “Public buildings such as community centres, libraries and town halls are allowed to remain open to run activities such as childcare and support groups, but not for private hire, birthday parties and other social events”
- Oldham – Oldham Libraries ‘book up’ residents’ spirits – Saddleworth Independent. “Despite restrictions our team continued to provide a range of services, including weekly Rhymetime events, swapping the Children’s Library for Facebook Live; virtual author interviews and live performances online. Between 23 March – 16 August, the libraries’ staff produced 30 videos, which generated more than 10,000 views and organised 37 live events, attracting a further 3,671 viewers.”
- Pembrokeshire – Free online resources from Pembrokeshire libraries -Pembroke Today. “Libraries across Pembrokeshire might be closed currently, but the service is always open with a fantastic range of online resources.”
- Sheffield – Why Sheffield residents are campaigning to restore a historical and ‘much needed’ library – The Star. ““We, the undersigned, petition Sheffield City Council to list the handsome Tinsley Carnegie library building, and to apply for funding to reactivate it for its originally intended purpose, to provide a much needed free library for the area of Tinsley.””
- Solihull – Latest on Solihull library services – what’s now open and what’s still shut – Birmingham Mail. Summary of what services are available in which library and opening hours. “baby steps” being taken to full opening.
- St Helens – Black communities in St Helens to tell their stories as part of arts project – The Reporter. ACE funded.
- Council commissioned projects to feature at UK’s longest running LGBTQIA+ arts and culture festival – St Helens Star. Several projects.
- South Gloucestershire – Bradley Stoke Library reopens for browsing – Bradley Stoke Journal. “Filton Library has not been able to reopen due to essential building work being carried out”
- Staffordshire – How poems helped Denise and Monica build a lockdown friendship – National Lottery. Reading Friends; “a UK-wide programme that uses reading as a way to start conversations and connect people”
- Swansea – Culture goes online to help residents through firebreak – Wales 247. “While library sites are closed many services will still be available online. Members can download free e-books, e-audiobooks and e-magazines.”
- Warwickshire – Whitnash and Lillington libraries reopening – Leamington Observer.
- Worcestershire – Further services begin to resume again at Worcestershire libraries – Malvern Gazette. “Meeting rooms will be available to book again at some libraries from November 2. Maximum capacity levels will be reduced to ensure they are Covid-secure and new procedures in place to allow rooms to be used safely. November will also see the return of Storybubble sessions for families at some of Worcestershire’s libraries.”

Chinese whispers
Oct 25th
Editorial
Great to see Public Library Apparel, featured in this blog a few weeks ago, reach their crowdfunding target. This will mean that an online shop, selling library-themed clothes, with some of the profits going to libraries, will open soon. Crowdfunding for more normal library things, though, is more challenging, as I suspect Libraries Unlimited will discover, asking for the public to fund refurbishing a van for mobile library use. This is the sort of thing that councils would normally fund and it’s a bit sad to see it now being a matter for charity.
Moving further afield, and perhaps more philosophically, I have been thinking about the implications of the British Library partnership with China recently. It’s a difficult issue and I’m not sure about it either way but I think the pros and cons could do with listing.
For partnering with China:
- It’s a partnership with Chinese libraries, not their government. It keeps lines of dialogue open between professionals in both countries. Let’s keep politics out of this, librarians should work with each=other regardless of what their countries are doing.
- An extension of the “soft power” diplomacy that the UK is famous for, influencing others at relatively low cost.
- Helping to develop another country’s libraries, and our own. The partnership advances knowledge and mutual understanding.
- The British Library partnered with 80 (yes, eighty) countries last year alone so this is normal. Under CENL, we brought 70 national library staff from almost 40 (out of 44) European countries together this month. So this is quite normal.
- There won’t be any tangible impact to the Chinese by withdrawing from the partnership and there may be some harm, professional development-wise, in withdrawing.
- Partnerships with organisations which are in countries which have problematic governments is common. My own wife’s school (she’s a teacher) has a partnership programme with a Sudanese school.
- Where do we draw the line? If the French Prime Minister says something off, do we cease having anything to do with them?
Against partnering with China:
- China is an authoritarian dictatorship engaged in outright ideologic if not ethnic cleansing. This can be seen in the last year in Hong Kong and with the Uyghurs. They, again just this year, imposed censorship in libraries and imprisoned a bookseller. I won’t mention their record in hacking because, frankly, as an owner of a website, I don’t want to give them ideas. Being authoritarian, there is no real separation between libraries and the State, with librarians expected to fully co-operate and assist actions which at least some in the UK would find abhorrent.
- Soft power works both ways and China has a lot more power, and wealth, than the UK. While being connected to them, those involved may be (there’s no evidence of this, it’s just theoretical) may be influenced by them.
- The ethics of the UK profession, specifically state the need to uphold, promote and defend human rights, equalities and diversity, intellectual freedom, including freedom from censorship, impartiality and the avoidance of inappropriate bias … and a few other things that would be anathema to the Chinese regime.
- The partnership, quite apart from any benefit, unintentionally implies that the British Library – the national library – does not see what the Chinese are doing, including their librarians, as wrong enough to cease their partnership. This gives the view, mistaken or otherwise, that the institution supports the Chinese, encouraging further partnership and support to the Chinese from others.
So, as I say, arguments on both sides. I’m not sure myself. But I think that the ethics and implications of the arrangement should be thought about publicly by our profession. We don’t live in a world where what we do is exempt from consequence, either way, and rightly too. Let me know what you think. I’m genuinely interested. Whisper it if you like.
Email ianlibrarian@live.co.uk

Changes by authority
- Devon – Bovey Tracey Library moves into colocation, Crowdfunder for refurbishment of ex-van as a new mobile library
- Essex – Harlow Library to become “modern learning hub”
- York – Plan to rent out museum gardens for mini golf in order to raise funds.
National news
- Award-winning Belfast novelist Anna Burns claims €100,000 prize – Irish News. “Milkman was nominated by libraries in the UK, USA and Germany, as well as Limerick City and County Libraries.”
- Dyslexia Awareness Month: What Makes a Book Dyslexia Friendly? – School Library Journal.
- Exploring the impact of Digital Technologies on the Library, Knowledge and Information workforce – CILIP. “Are you, or any services you know of, currently using or working towards implementing any ‘new; and emerging technologies – such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics and Process Automation – then please tell us more. “
- The Importance of Libraries: by Riva Dawar , Dartford Grammar School for Girls – This is Local London. “the loss of libraries- even for an impermanent period of time- is something that feels wrong. We can’t go out and get a book, and then pass it on to someone else, not for a while now. And that’s good, because we do need to fight this virus, and shutting down libraries is a small but easy way to do that- and a necessary way.”
My department has not undertaken a recent assessment of the financial sustainability of public libraries in England.
The most recent assessment was the National Audit Office report published in 2018 on the Financial sustainability of local authorities for the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government.
The Government is providing local councils with unprecedented support during the pandemic with a £4.3 billion package, including £3.7 billion which is not ringfenced and £600 million to support social care providers. This is part of a wider package of almost £28 billion which the Government has committed to support local areas, with funding going to councils, businesses and communities. The 2020 Spending Review will look at pressures facing the sector and provide them with the certainty they need to aid financial planning.
Caroline Dinenage, Secretary of State, DCMS, 19 October
- Library ebook lending surges as UK turns to fiction during lockdown – Guardian. Increase in digital lending and events described. Nick Poole says ““Yes, absolutely we have found this new digital audience [but] we also need to continue supporting [the] face-to-face audience.”. Top ten borrowed lists.
- Libraries see surge in e-book borrowing amid concerns over book hygiene during lockdown – Telegraph. Paywall.
- McKee shares the secrets of Elmer success after lifetime achievement win – BookSeller. ““Going from being banned to winning a lifetime achievement award is very strange,” said McKee (pictured above), who thinks the librarians in question “didn’t get” the message behind Tusk Tusk: a 1978 story about two groups of elephants (one black, one white) that fight each other because of the colour of their skins. “My first wife was Anglo-Indian. We were invited to South Africa but we would have been staying at different hotels, so we didn’t go,” he told The Bookseller. “
- Neil Gaiman thanks librarians – Instagram. “A big thank you from me to librarians everywhere. You are heroes, and I am so glad you exist and do what you do”
- New report shows Community Managed Libraries evolving into Community Hubs – Community Libraries Network. “CMLs have more and more been operating as Community Hubs and during the COVID-19 crisis have been important in helping maintain the health and well-being of their area. “
- On your marks. Reset. Restart – DCMS Libraries. Business support service to be run from the BL Business and IP Centres based in libraries. “Although it has been a tumultuous year, it has also been a landmark moment for our services to business: in the March Budget, the Chancellor announced a £13 million investment to fund the expansion of the BIPC Network to 20 Regional Centres in England (outside London) by 2023 and a further 90 local centres in towns and rural and coastal areas”
- Public Library Apparel – Kickstarter. Crowdfunding goal reached.
- The row over free school meals is a loud and distinct testimony: those in power do not represent the people – Independent / Letters. “Rotherham council is consulting on turning libraries over to volunteers, following the example of neighbouring Sheffield and Doncaster councils, which did the same with their libraries years ago. Calling libraries “community libraries” and running them with volunteers was, and is, a deliberate ploy to mask cuts and hide the fragmentation and destruction of a crucial statutory service. It is disingenuous to say the least, and an insult to library workers and library users.”
- Study will look at the reading habits of Scots 200 years ago – Press and Journal. “Experts at the University of Stirling have been awarded £1 million for a unique project that will aim to show what people really borrowed from 15 historic libraries, including some in the north and north-east, from 1750 to 1830.” … “It will give people a sense of the role libraries have played across history and recognise that without libraries knowledge could not have been spread and disseminated in the way that it has”–
- ‘We are going to be needed more than ever’: A librarian on how her job has changed amid the Covid pandemic – I News. Anonymous Scottish public librarian interviewed. “More and more people are coming to her library in a small Scottish town for help with applying for benefits on the computers … It’s mostly quite frustrating because you realise how little help there is for people and you really are the safety net … If I come down with a cold, and I’ve not got Covid symptoms, I’m just going to have to go in.”
How’s 2020 been for you? A few questions answered by Lunde Ljungberg, Lejre Library & Archive, Denmark

What digital strategy have they found most successful this last year? For us at Lejre Library & Archive, the most successful digital strategy this last year has been to focus on presenting content and ”educating” our users in the accessibility to our digital services.
Have their libraries experienced a big rise in digital usage in 2020 and a drop in physical loans? The last couple of years we have experienced a steady growth in usage of digital services, but due to the Covid-19 and people staying more at home we have already spend the entire digital budget for 2020 coming out of August. A change of usage that we need to take in consideration going into 2021. In 2019 the physical loans were on a rise at Lejre Library & Archive and in the first couple of months of 2020 we saw a continuing tendency, but because of the Covid-lockdown in the spring we are expecting a bit lower numbers this year.
Is this something you see as temporary or something which is likely to be permanent to some extent? We expect (and encourage) a continuous rise in digital usage in the years to come but not necessarily in contrast to physical loans and visits, more as a qualified supplement to the whole library experience.
What steps have they/are they thinking of taking to meet this change? We have at Lejre Library & Archive an approach to the (digital) library services, which you could call ”shared hosting”. Both in our physical libraries as well on our digital platforms we try to invite the local community and cultural partners to share a focus on a common user. We are not there yet but building on strong community-energy and always trying to facilitate a natural presence of the library in these processes we are confident that we will get there in the near future.
Are there new services you have introduced this year and why? From January 2020, all five libraries in Lejre Municipality are open for self-service from 6am to 22pm. All week. But there are no new digital services as such this year, more a growing production of already digital presence, facebook, instagram, video, streaming talks etc …
Has there been any training or investment in boosting social media provision? No direct training of staff in matters of e.g. digital hosting, but Covid-19 created a necessary learning platform to reach users in alternative ways. The staff did not think twice and with courage – and an open mind – they raised the levels of digital presence within a very short period of time and in that way ensured the relationship with the users during unknown times. A relationship we can benefit from in the future we think. An interesting observation here is that some of the staff’s personal (literary focused) social media profiles also has increased in user interest and now produce cross-references to both libraries and literature.
Are they in a happy place nationally? How is the overall funding of libraries in their country this year? Lejre Library & Archive is one of the smallest library economies in Denmark, but the local energy and staff spirit is amazing, and in that perspective we only see good things coming for the citizens of Lejre Municipality
Lunde will be speaking at the Webinar: Digital strategy & innovation in libraries webinar on Tuesday 27 October 2pm.
International News
- Ecuador – What it’s like to be a librarian in the Galapagos – I Love Libraries. “I work yards away from the sea, and the marine iguanas usually walk in front of the library’s door.”
- People’s Libraries – Princh. “what every library should consider as its main mission: to be of the people, for the people and by the people. That is, “popular”.”
- Nepal – A library in rural Nepal – Designing Libraries. Earthquake hit part of Nepal raised international funds. Wifi and computerisation to happen shortly. Donations, especially of old e-readers, required.
- New Zealand – Weeding is essential for healthy library collections – Libraries Aotearoa. Library comes under fire for weeding books, explains why.
- Libraries Looking Forward – Libraries Aotearoa. “We asked four attendees from New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific who joined the recent LIANZA Libraries Looking Forward panel to report back and reflect on their personal highlights of the popular event.”
- Singapore – Children’s book with racist content moved to adult’s collection in public libraries – Yahoo. “The Library Consultative Panel, described as an “ an independent citizen-based committee comprising members from a cross-section of society”, provides recommendations to the board on its review of books that members of the public have raised concerns about”
- Sweden – Sweden ‘to start lockdowns’ as it has world’s 12th highest Covid-19 death rate – Mirror. “health authorities are reportedly set to ask people to stay away from shopping centres, gyms, libraries and museums.”
- USA – It’s Time to Talk About Covid-19 and Surfaces Again – Wired. Researcher “was aware of the practical issues raised by putting books in purgatory for so long, but she had a broader concern: that all this research was encouraging an undue fixation, or even a fear, of the objects librarians are meant to joyfully share with the public” … “In my opinion, the chance of transmission through inanimate surfaces is very small” … “That was months ago, and since then the scientific evidence has tipped in Goldman’s favor. And yet, here we are all the same, wiping down pews and hiding away books, among countless other disinfection rituals molded by those early perceptions”
- A Reset for Library E-books – Publishers Weekly. “usage of e-books, digital audio, and other digital resources has indeed risen dramatically at the nation’s public libraries—no surprise. But the question remains: will this spike in usage be a game changer for digital content in libraries?” … ” the easing of prices and restrictions by publishers during the pandemic has helped—a lot. ” … “this is not a time for publishers and libraries to “put aside” their differences, librarians say, but to resolve them.”
- What happened to YOUmedia? – Chicago Reader. “The Chicago Public Library’s flagship teen program was a refuge for Black and Brown youth. Recent layoffs put that in jeopardy.”
Local news by authority
- Bournemouth Christchurch Poole – Foodbanks and groups helping to feed people in Dorset – Daily Echo. “All 24 BCP public libraries are accepting food donations for local foodbanks, with Branksome and Rossmore libraries also host community fridges for residents to use.”
- Bury – Final borough library to be reopened – Bury Times. “Staff at Radcliffe Library, which was given a major makeover in 2019, are making final preparations to relaunch the Stand Lane facility.”
- Cardiff – Cardiff community services changes for the fire-break period – In Your Area. ” four core hubs in the city will remain open on an emergency appointment only basis for the duration of the new measures until Monday, November 9. The remaining hubs and libraries will be closed during that time.”
- Devon – Bovey Tracey’s books on the move as new library opens – In Your Area. “The library will close at 4pm onOctober 29 and will open again on November 12 in the new Riverside Community Centre which has been built on the site of the Old Thatched Inn in Station Road The state-of-the-art new centre will also house the Bovey Tracey Town Council offices, meeting and events spaces, public toilets, Incubation Offices and the Information Centre.
- Devon crowdfunder for new mobile library as ‘Gertie’ retires – In Your Area. “Rachel Gee, service development manager (Rural Services), Libraries Unlimited, said: “Purchased at £15,000 from eBay, just a tenth of the cost of a brand-new mobile library, this six-year-old van will improve the reliability of our service for rural communities. It desperately needs to be renovated to meet the needs of our book lending services and the communities who use them. We need to fundraise £15,000 to help get this new mobile library on the road.””
- East Riding – Bid to inspire people during Get Online Week – Bridlington Free Press.
- Essex – Harlow Town Library task group to implement ‘modern learning hub’ – In Your Area. “the library will receive funds from its Getting Building Fund. The Harlow Library Task Group (HLTG), set up by Essex County Council (ECC), will help create a modern learning hub. At the core of this will be Adult Community Learning (ACL), which will relocate from its existing site at Latton Bush.”
- Talks over Post Office plans for Greenstead Library halt – Gazette Standard. “The Greenstead community needs a post office. Footfall was never a problem. “We have spent three years talking about it coming to the library. “Then they have gone and agreed it for Prettygate, I feel rather let down.””
- Flintshire – Aura Libraries: we’re back on the road – Leader Live. ” Back in July, we introduced a new service called the Aura Library Link – Community Calls. This service provides a telephone link for Flintshire residents who are lonely, socially isolated or finding it difficult to get out.”
- Hampshire – Tadley Library hours to be cut – Newbury Today. “The library, at Mulfords Hill, was previously open for 42 hours, Monday to Saturday. Now, the library will only be open for 34 hours a week, and will be closed completely on Wednesdays as well as Sundays.”
- Highlands – Council leader proposes new and modern library for Highlands – Press and Journal. “Mrs Davidson said it was time libraries became a fully blended service, online as well as physical.”. Councillors “will call for a cross-party meeting on the matter.”
- Inverclyde – Inverclyde libraries provide computer access for jobseekers – Greenock Telegraph. “Given the current climate the team are aiming to offer help to those on Universal Credit and looking for employment. Inverclyde was the first place in the country to offer PC access again when restrictions eased. Two hundred people have used the service since July.”
- Libraries have 4,000 books available for connect and collect – Greenock Telegraph.
- Leeds – Leeds Council reschedules Children’s Drag Queen Story Hour UK event after ‘concerns’ raised – Yorkshire Evening Post. Independent councillor had criticised first scheduling on social media but subsequent public responses positive. Comments disabled on social media post for new event.
- Lincolnshire – Community libraries ‘have gone from strength to strength’ in Lincolnshire since controversial move four years ago – Lincolnshire Live. “A controversial shake-up of library services in Lincolnshire is being heralded as a success four years on. Lincolnshire County Council outsourced 15 core libraries to Greenwich Leisure Ltd in 2016 and handed control of about 30 smaller libraries for local groups to run as community hubs to save £1.9m.”
- Northern Ireland – Coronavirus: NI Libraries see 24,000 new online users during pandemic – BBC. “In March, there were 7,590 new library members – 10 times as many as the same month in 2019.”
- North Yorkshire – Harrogate libraries highly commended in Library of the Year award – North Yorkshire County Council. Council has its own award ceremony – volunteer libraries awarded.
- New digital heritage trail brings Skipton’s past to life – North Yorkshire County Council. “The Skipton High Street Heritage trail, available on the What Was Here app, uses a selection of photos from Skipton library’s Rowley Ellwood collection. Users can access the app when out and about to check ‘what was here’ at any given location.”
- Pembrokeshire – Wales fire-break: Pembrokeshire libraries to close – Western Telegraph. “any libraries that have re-opened to date will close” .. “Any Order and Collects that have been placed already will have to be collected” by specific deadlines.
- Powys – Guilsfield youngster wins library prize for Revolting Recipe – Powys County Times. “The winner of the Powys County Council libraries’ Roald Dahl Day Competition to write and illustrate a ‘Revolting Recipe’, is seven year-old Saffron Hyland, a pupil at Guilsfield Primary School.”
- Powys libraries, leisure and recycling centres and others to close – Brecon and Radnor Express. “there will be no Order and Collect library book collections or deliveries, no use of the computers nor browsing sessions in libraries for the firebreak period. All library books out on loan will be automatically renewed, and no fines will apply”
- Torfaen – Library services postponed during ‘circuit-breaker’ lockdown – South Wales Argus. “‘request and collect’, IT appointment and Library at Home services will be suspended through the circuit breaker lockdown. Services closed at 5pm today, Friday, and will resume on Monday, November 9. Details on how services will resume will be released shortly.”
- Warwickshire – Kenilworth library reopens for visits – Kenilworth Weekly News.
- Council to host online event on virtual library services – Leamington Observer. ” an informal online chat through Microsoft Teams, allowing residents to ask them about eBooks and eAudio, eMagazines, eNewspapers, and eInformation and Learning resources.”
- Worcestershire – Digital help on offer from local libraries across Worcestershire – Redditch Standard. “a ‘Digital Champion’ volunteer who can help residents to set up an email address, connect with friends and family online, shop online or get to grips with social media.”
- York – ‘Completely barmy’ plan for mini-golf lawn with York history theme – The Press. “New company York Mini Golf has plans for a 12-hole mini golf course to be run at the site for the next five years – which could help make money for York Explore, which would rent out the land.”
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