Editorial

Well, looking at the “changes by local authority” list, there’s not much of a problem guessing which part of the cut/recovery pendulum libraries are on nationally at the moment. Being this is, as I have mentioned before in editorials, a very familiar thing to see since 2010 when I started this website, one would probably have to agree with the outgoing CILIP chief executive Nick Poole who says in a must-read article that public libraries are “under sustained assault”. Nick then goes on to make clear he believes encouraging library volunteers to make up for budget cuts are “a fraud that has been perpetrated on the tax-paying public”. One feels he may have had enough, as indeed have many concerned about library services.

The British Library cyber attack continues to make news, with the change this week that there are both defences of the management of that august institution and some slight criticisms, with some questions being asked about the leadership and strategy of the institution, which has kept front-line staff “in the dark” about the process.

Abroad, there’s an interesting article on book theft in Australia and data suggesting that the move to e-books and e-audiobooks is continuing, not stalling, after the boost received from lockdowns. And, of course, there’s the continuing madness from the USA about censorship – now including apparently banning dictionaries in schools because kids may look up the meaning of particular words – and, thankfully, an increasing backlash.

Changes by local authority

• Argyll and Bute – Rosneath Library not open since lockdown started, may close permanently.
• Blaenau Gwent – Arbertillery Library to move and be co-located.
• Bournemouth Christchurch Poole – Boscombe Library closed for months due to flooding.
• Bracknell Forest – Consulting on £200k cut: closure of home library service, staffing cut
• Bradford – £900k cut proposed (due to “underdelivered savings” over lockdown).
• Cheshire East – Consultation on general council cuts includes suggestion to cut libraries budget by £370k by seeking funder from parish/town councils and hiring out building spaces.
• Dudley – Tender for running library service.
• Kirklees – Batley and Dewsbury Libraries may close, moving into co-locations
• North East Lincolnshire – Review / consultation.
• Reading – Central Library will close and move to co-location in Town Hall, costing £8.6m.
• Somerset – Proposals include £25k staff cut (no more relief budget), closing Performing Arts Library, ending mobile library service, 10% reduction in opening hours, closure of libraries (minimum £50k to maximum £380k)
• St Helens – Six libraries closed: Garswood, Rainhill, Rainford and Parr to no longer be council funded on 26 January; Peter Street and Billinge libraries not to reopen.
• Telford and Wrekin – Council cuts fundings to Newport Library, town council funds library to keep it open.
• Worcestershire – Staffless opening hours introduced at Kidderminster., Evesham and Pershore.

National news

• British Library cyber attack explained: What you need to know – Computer Weekly. “The data leaked by Rhysida includes almost 500,000 files, many of them stolen from the British Library’s customer relationship management (CRM) database. These files are understood to include the personal information of readers and visitors, including their names and email addresses, and in some cases postal addresses and telephone numbers. Fortunately, it does not appear to include any financial data.” … ” Even if a staff member did make a mistake, they deserve support and understanding, not blame – anybody can fall victim to a cyber attack at any time.”
• Can reading really improve your life? – BBC Radio 4. “Research suggests that reading for pleasure is a key indicator in a child’s future outcome. But how can we foster that love of reading? Author Julia Donaldson investigates.” The importance of libraries included.
• The Experimental Library: A Guide to Taking Risks, Failing Forward, and Creating Change – Facet Publishing. Book, “This guide shows how to draw from new approaches and technologies to harness experimentation as a tool for testing ideas and responding to change. It borrows ideas and inspiration from the startup sector to teach you how to take a human-centered and design thinking-based perspective on problem solving.”

• Green BIC Brunch, Jan 2024: Focus on Libraries – Book Industry Communication Ltd. Thursday 25 January, 12-13.30, online. “Join us in January 2024 when we’ll be hearing from key library sector stakeholders about their sustainability initiatives, goals, and challenges and what it means to be green. We’ll also be sharing an update on all of BIC’s work in this space – with the latest updates on our current projects that form part of our ongoing Green Supply Chain Plan.”
• Libraries, critical thinking and the war on truth – what lies ahead in 2024 – CILIP / Nick Poole. “Let us be under no illusions – the principle of universal access to a free, quality library service supported by professional library staff is under sustained assault in the UK. As Local Authorities begin to push back on central Government cuts by challenging the legal definition of ‘minimum service requirements’, we will likely see further challenges to the idea of libraries as a universal entitlement in the months ahead. As a profession, our responsibility is not to ‘see both sides’ of the debate about volunteerism and cuts to library services. We have a duty to call it what it is – a fraud that has been perpetrated on the tax-paying public…”
• Library data storytelling – Library Data Blog. “This is a invitation to public library organisations to get involved in a new project. The idea: create a set of data stories using public library data, add a beautiful data visualisation for each one, and publish in physical and digital form.”
• Restoring our services – an update – Knowledge Master Blog / British Library. Catalogue will return on 15 January but in “read only” form. “what happened to us in October has implications for the whole collections sector, and in the months ahead we will begin to share the lessons we’ve learned from this experience with our partners and peer institutions.”
• “Totally and utterly bereft”: the devastating repercussions of the British Library Cyber Attack – Standard. ” On a visit this week, staff computers were still completely turned off throughout the building. Morale seemed low: one worker said he had to change his passport and bank details, like most of his colleagues — and said the place was “technologically paralysed”. Inside the reading rooms, a visitor could be overheard getting irritated with a librarian about not being able to access the archives. They wearily replied he should take it up with bosses, who had kept workers in the dark.”

International news

• Global – OverDrive: Record Number of Libraries Hit One Million Digital Lends in 2023 – Publishers Weekly. “OverDrive reps reported this week that a record 152 library systems and consortia across seven countries—including 41 states and seven Canadian provinces—surpassed the one million digital lends benchmark in 2023, which includes e-books, digital audiobooks, and digital magazines. The numbers represent a significant jump from the 129 library systems that hit the milestone in 2022.”
• Australia – ‘The incentive to steal isn’t there’: the lost cause of tracking library theft – Guardian. “Few, if any, libraries truly know how many books are actually stolen. Lost library books are a small part of the natural attrition of library collections – normal wear and tear is expected and some are fatally damaged. But while we’ve all lost a library book in our time, Morley estimates fewer than 1% of loaned books across NSW public libraries go missing.”. Many do not charge fines, some problems from those stealing books as a form of censoring them, but “why steal something that is free?” … ““The big change,” Hakim says, “is a lot of use of study space, working areas and people using the library for social services.””
• Europe – Libraries for the future: Europe’s new wave of ‘meeting places for the mind’ – Guardian. Ghent’s city library: ” “This is more than a library, though books are its core. It’s also a place to learn, connect, develop, collaborate. Or just to be. A meeting place for our minds. De Krook is not alone. All also built in the past seven or eight years, Helsinki’s Oodi central library, Dokk1 in Denmark’s Aarhus, and Deichman Bjørvika in Oslo share much the same vision of the library: in effect a living room for the 21st-century city.”

• USA – Moms for Liberty sends letter to lawmakers urging action on libraries – Alabama Political Reporter. “Neither Moms for Liberty nor Clean Up Alabama discloses the actual size of its membership; however, observations at events show that it is a very small portion of those who use libraries on a regular basis, and more a part of a political movement to exploit cultural battles for partisan political advantage”
  • Boston is using public buildings — like libraries — to build affordable housing. It’s still pricey – WBUR. “Under pressure to create more affordable housing, the city of Boston plans to build on top of properties it already owns, like libraries. But the cost of these developments is far from modest — $835,000 per unit in one case.”
  • From a Young Age, Children Tune in to Audiobooks | Survey – School Library Journal. “About 12 percent of those who borrow children’s and YA audiobooks do so exclusively, meaning they don’t check out other library materials.”
  • Should Libraries Charge Late Fees? – Time for Kids. Children give pro and con arguments.
  • Stories That Resonate – American Libraries. “Everywhere I go, I see library workers pinpointing problems and striving to fix them, identifying gaps in services and filling them.”
  • The Week in Libraries: January 12, 2024 – Publishers Weekly. Various censorship and anti-censorship moves and local funding campaigns.

Local news by authority

• Aberdeenshire – Explore Aberdeenshire’s countryside and coast from the comfort of a warm library – Grampian Online. “Live Life Aberdeenshire Libraries is collaborating with Aberdeenshire Council’s Ranger service to deliver a series of free talks …”
• Argyll and Bute – Still no decision on Rosneath’s library – Lochside Press. “A final decision has still not been made on the future of Rosneath’s library, almost four years after it last opened. Libraries across Scotland were closed when Covid-19 lockdown restrictions were first imposed in March 2020. Every other library operated by LiveArgyll, a charitable trust set up by Argyll and Bute Council in 2017, has since reopened. But the library in Rosneath has remained closed”
• Birmingham – Cuts put Birmingham’s libraries at risk – Birmingham Against The Cuts. Cuts expected. Council consultation open to criticism. Previous cuts should be taken into account.
  • Little Red Riding Hood ready to tour Solihull – Solihull Observer. Charity/ACE funded theatre show visiting libraries.
• Blaenau Gwent – Trinity Chapel to transform into library and community hub – South Wales Argus. “Trinity Chapel, Abertillery, to house a new modern library, together with a new community space. … Abertillery Library, run by the Aneurin Leisure Trust, will relocate from its existing location in Castle Street to the more accessible Town Centre location once the works are completed.”
• Bournemouth Christchurch Poole – Boscombe library forced to close after ‘substantial leak’ – Daily Echo. “closed since November 29 after leaks followed by a period of heavy rain has led to flooding inside. Residents have been unable to access the library since, due to damaged carpets and the computers being switched off. BCP Council has said conversations with the landlord of the building are ongoing to get it back open, but an exact opening date is yet to be known. “
• Bracknell Forest – Budget consultation – Bracknell Forest Council. “I support the council’s proposed reorganisation of its library and customer service teams and closure of the home library service, to enable more services, including blue badges and bus passes, to be provided in local facilities, with a saving of £200,000 over the next two years. Please note, this proposal does not include any reduction in the number of libraries, their opening hours or the activities they provide for the community.”
  • Volunteer groups could run Bracknell home library service – BBC.
• Bradford – Local libraries support district-wide rhyme challenge – Rombalds Radio. “The annual Rhyme Challenge sees parents and children aged six and under learning five rhymes together with the reward of a certificate for taking part.”
  • Have your say on the Council’s Proposed Financial Plan and Budget proposals for 2024-25 – Bradford Council. £900K cut. “Strategic Review of Libraries (£0 in 2024-25 rising to £175,000 by 2025-26). The Council is undertaking a strategic review of its libraries to identify how overall operating costs can be reduced. This review will focus on the overall costs of the library services which are mainly contained within the council run libraries and specifically review facility operating costs, usage data, property and asset stock-condition and the potential for alternative operating models to be adopted”
• Brighton and Hove – Share what our libraries mean for you in an exciting installation – Brighton and Hove Council. “You will have the opportunity to contribute to a collective wall digitally with a tablet, where you can select a sticker and type in a message which will then appear on a screen. Or you can also share your thoughts via a traditional sticky note on the wall. The installation is a part of our Community Connect project, which aims to attract new audiences to join our library community and remind everyone of the abundance of services provided by our libraries, which go far beyond books.”
• Bristol – Council leaders urged to scrap recruitment freeze that has forced Bristol library closures – Bristol World. “All 26 local branches across the city have shut their doors to residents at least once since the local authority ordered a ban on casual employees” … “There have been 287 full or part-day closures in total, with the worst hit being Filwood which has closed 22 times”
  • Libraries in Bristol closed for fifth of planned opening hours last month after staff freeze – Bristol Post. “Libraries in Bristol were closed for a fifth of the time they were planned to be open last month after a recruitment freeze. Councillors urged the mayor to reopen libraries as temporary closures are becoming much more common since a ban on casual staff came into effect. Labour says lifting the ban on casual staff would cost £300,000 and mean cuts elsewhere to Bristol City Council services. Meanwhile opposition councillors warned the library service could be damaged in the long term, similar to the planning department’s staffing struggles.
• Caerphilly – Newly refurbished Rhymney Library Hub opens its doors – Caerphilly Council. “The new improvements include refurnished and modernisation of both floors of the library, as well as an innovative education, reading and support hub for residents, council staff and partner organisations.
  Many of the new features and design which the community can now use, were taken from a Community Voice Survey carried out with local residents.”
• Cheshire East – Cheshire East Council Budget Consultation for 2024 to 2025 – Cheshire East Council – “Proposal EC4: Fund libraries a different way: Seek alternative funding to maintain either current or a reduced level of service delivery, including partnership working with Town and Parish Councils to secure contributions towards safeguarding service provision in their local area. As part of this continue to push forward with new income generation initiatives within the wider library estate, utilising the building assets to offer new third-party services to the public. Potential savings for 2024/25 = £0.37 million.” see also Tip closures among council’s budget plans – BBC.

• Cheshire West and Chester – Cheshire West: Libraries to host Health and Wellbeing Week – Standard. “The Library Service is teaming up with a range of partners to provide something for everyone including: Brio Leisure, Cheshire Police, Cheshire West Communities Together, Citizens Advice, Employment Directions, End of Life Partnership, Fallen Angels, Healthbox, Healthwatch, Health Rangers, Koala North West, Open Eye Gallery, Platform for Life, Primary Care Cheshire, Radiate Arts, The Reader, the Council’s Road Safety team and Starting Well.”
• Denbighshire – Special meeting: Denbighshire library decision ‘called in’ – Free Press. “More than 4,500 residents responded to the consultation on the original proposal to cut opening times at all of Denbighshire’s eight libraries by 50 per cent, and at a meeting of the Cabinet on December 19, a revised proposal to cut opening hours by 40 per cent was put forward and subsequently passed. The Conservative group are against the controversial decision and on December 29 2023, group leader Cllr Hugh Irving submitted a notice of ‘call-in’. “
• Devon – Exmouth Library running a Donate a Coat Campaign this winter – Exmouth Journal. “If you are cold and in need of a coat, free coats are available for people to take in the front porch of Exmouth Library. These have been generously donated by the local community for anyone in need to take for free. This is a nationwide campaign being run by Julian House Devon in libraries across Devon.”
• Dudley – Provision of Library and Archive Services – Bidstats. “The Council seeks to enter into an exclusive arrangement with a suitable Contractor for the provision of its library services, archive service, school library service, home library service and maintenance of data in the Dudley Community Information Directory.”
  • Campaigners who saved Dudley library services gear up for another fight – Express and Star. Semi-paywalled.
• Fife – Two OnFife libraries dedicated as warm spaces this winter – Dunfermline Press.
• Gateshead – Crawcrook and Pelaw libraries to close for refurbishment – Gateshead Council. “This project is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.”
• Herefordshire – Hereford Library & Learning Centre project moves forward as Stronger Hereford votes in favour of relocation to Shirehall – Your Herefordshire. “The decision effectively gives the go ahead for £3,000,000 from the city’s Stronger Towns Fund (totalling £22.4m) to be invested in creating a vibrant, modern and innovative library within the Shirehall, rather than at Maylord Orchards, now subject only to acceptance by the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities”
• Hertfordshire – Hertfordshire’s High Sheriff sets challenge to visit all 46 libraries across the county to highlight ‘joy of reading’ – Hemel Today. “The tour, themed ‘The joy of reading and the impact of low literacy’, will highlight literacy challenges faced by individuals in prisons, on probation and in our communities. Liz will also raise awareness of community activities libraries offer for people of all ages.”
• Kirklees – Have your say on library services in Batley and Dewsbury – Kirklees Council. “The proposal is to move the libraries a short distance into buildings that have been identified as having available capacity which could be repurposed to support wider council services and community activities.”
• Leeds – Protest held against sale of former library – BBC. “Around 70 protesters rallied outside the old Cross Gates library building, on Farm Road, on Saturday. The city council has put the site up for sale, citing its dire financial position. The building has stood empty for nearly two years, since the library moved to Cross Gates Shopping Centre. The move was intended to be temporary, to allow for refurbishment of the original location. But that plan never came to fruition …”
• Lincolnshire – Gainsborough library staff ‘proud’ to be named Library of the Year 2023 – Lincolnshire World. “The creation of a library garden in 2023 and the additions of new activities, such as surgeries with local PCSOs and councillors, are just some of the excellent ways the library team has engaged with the community and made the library a welcoming and useful space for everyone”
• Medway – Medway Council looking into support from Libraries Connected – Kent Online. “They say the support will be available to councils that submit section 114 notices, effectively declaring bankruptcy, or those which have to drastically cut library services to avoid an S114. On January 4, the charity launched a programme for authorities looking at cutting services.”
• Merton – Get support for debt and money worries this January – Merton Council. “We’re supporting Citizens Advice Merton & Lambeth (CAML) to provide in-person advice and support in Merton’s Libraries and Wide Way Medical Centre.”
• Newcastle – Interview with Founder of the Kittiwake Trust Multilingual Library – Northeast Bylines. Charity/volunteer library. ““The Kittiwake Trust Multilingual Library was the first Library of Sanctuary in the Northeast, six months before the Newcastle city library.” … “Our library is – as far as we know – the only multilingual library that is open to anyone rather than being attached to an institution or a university”
• Norfolk – West Norfolk libraries including King’s Lynn, Downham and Hunstanton are looking for people to help lead support groups – Lynn News. “As part of the Know Your Neighbourhood Project, funded by the Government’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DMCS) and aimed at reducing loneliness and isolation, libraries in West and East Norfolk are looking for new volunteers.”
• North East Lincolnshire – Review of library and archive service across North East Lincolnshire starts today – North East Lincolnshire Council. Consultation.
• Nottingham – A Central Library fit for a City of Literature – Nottingham City of Literature. “The day after the library opening, the city council, which has lost £100 million of funding a year since 2013, while demand for its services soared, declared itself effectively bankrupt. The only surprise about this was that it happened so soon after the library opening. This dismal news does, I would argue, reinforce the need to celebrate our new library. Of course, if government commissioners take over, we may have to fight to keep it open, just as we fought to protect other libraries threatened with closure. But this is a city willing to fight.”
• Oxfordshire – Last chapter as librarian retires after two decades – Henley Standard. “Rosemary Dunstan, 67, said: “I have enjoyed 99 per cent of my job but it’s time to go. I have other things to do before I get too old.” She has seen many changes at the library in Grove Road, including digital upgrades, as well as cuts in staff and an attempt to close it in 2010 to save money.”
• Portsmouth – Reading Friends uncovers the power of inclusive reading at Portsmouth Libraries – Reading Agency. “Portsmouth Libraries have been hosting Reading Friends sessions in their branches since 2021. In the last year, they helped 1,492 people to connect with each other over 1,588 times in a variety of one to one and group Reading Friends sessions.”

• Reading – Library will be moved in Reading in £8.6m investment – Reading Chronicle. “The main library in Reading is set to be moved to a new site in the town centre as a  £8.6 million project has been given the go-ahead. Reading Central Library has been located in King’s Road for nearly 40 years since it was opened back in 1985. Now the library’s collection and its facilities are set to be moved to the council offices in Bridge Street as part of a £8.6 million project. But before the move can take place, the project required consent from the council’s planning applications committee.”
• Somerset – Agenda Reports Pack – Somerset Council. Proposals include £25k staff cut (no more relief budget), closing Performing Arts Library, ending mobile library service, 10% reduction in opening hours, closure of libraries (minimum £50k to maximum £380k).
• Staffordshire – Cost of living campaign gives helping hand to thousands of Staffordshire residents – Staffordshire Council. “These include county council and community managed libraries, providing warm welcoming spaces to residents and saving families an estimated £60,000 since 2020 with pre-loved school uniform markets. “
• St Helens – Closing date confirmed for four St Helens libraries axed by council – St Helens Star. Garswood, Rainhill, Rainford and Parr to close on 26 January. “The decision to axe four libraries and also not to reopen Peter Street and Billinge libraries, which have already been closed for some time due to the expiry of a building lease and structural issues respectively, was strongly opposed by many in the communities affected, who expressed anger and sadness at what they branded a “disastrous decision”” … “The council says “positive talks” continue with groups interested in a community-managed approach in a number of the areas affected by closures.”
• Swindon – Swindon libraries have a long way to go to recover from Covid – Swindon Advertiser. “In 2018-2019 there were 521,923 visits to the five libraries with 587,155 books borrowed. That dropped very slightly the year after, where the very end of the financial year saw a complete lockdown. The last full year, 2022-23, saw 240,906 visits and 275,704 items loaned, hugely higher than both 2020-21 and 2021-22, but still less than half the figures pre-pandemic.”

• Telford and Wrekin – ‘It is one of the gems of Newport’: Residents to pay extra council tax to save town library – Shropshire Star. “Newport Town Council has agreed to raise its precept next year by 12.93 per cent to cover the cost of taking over the High Street library from Telford & Wrekin Council.” … ““Telford & Wrekin Council came to us and said that either we take on the library or it would close,” said Councillor Perry.”
• Warwickshire – Key new feature added to Rugby Library – Rugby Observer. “A digital grand piano is now available for anyone to play at Rugby Library and Information Centre.”
• Worcestershire – Libraries Unlocked is coming to Kidderminster Library this Winter – Worcestershire Council. “library customers who are 15 and over, and local community organisations will be able to use the library outside staffed opening hours if they upgrade to free Libraries Unlocked membership. Worcestershire County Council is inviting library members to Kidderminster Library on 22 January 2024 at 10am – 12pm. The session is an opportunity to find out more about how Libraries Unlocked works and to share your ideas on how the community can make the most of the new service. “

Editorial

Dark times look to be here again with major cuts proposed or confirmed over the last fortnight in Denbighshire, Haringey, Nottingham and Swindon. In addition, there are dark rumblings in several other council services. This is starting to remind of the start of Public Libraries News back in 2010 when there was cut after cut announced. However, the big difference here is that the party in government turned out to have more than a decade to run at that point while now, the same party/government (give or take some frenetic changing in personnel) is unlikely, according to most observers, to last the next year. The opposition are likely to look more kindly on public services but are currently being very moderate in their proposals.

Another reminder of when I started the website is the continuing arguments over the Single Digital Presence, at least now with an actual name rather than a vague description of LibraryOn. The creation of this website has been going at a glacial pace, and has transformed into, well, not quite sure yet but certainly not a “single digital presence” but will hopefully appear some time soon. Hopefully before the next election, anyway.

There’s also a third reminder of the past, that being the hopelessness of CIPFA, who have produced their latest report, which you’re not allowed to see unless you spend hundreds of pounds or have a friend/job in one of the participating library services, and a press release that ignores inflation and the continuing impact of lockdown. Two-fifths of library services did not even bother to participate in it and the press release does not even include the number of public libraries in the UK, presumably because CIPFA does not actually know. The fact that the public library services suffer from such a lack of accurate available data is, and has been since I started, deeply embarrassing. Again, one hopes the national service can get its act together an produce something better than this but there are few confident of that, again at least this side of a change of government.

Finally, here’s a few more libraries named after people (thank you to PLN reader Kieran):

– Lewis Carroll Library in Islington
– Claude Ramsey Library in Thamesmead, Greenwich (renamed to Thamesmere)
– CLR James library in Dalston, Hackney
– Robert Jeyes library in Barking and Dagenham
– Keith Axon Centre in Redbridge
– John Jackson Library in Bush Hill Park, Enfield

Changes by library authority

• Denbighshire – 40% opening hours/ £360k cut, confirmed.
• Derbyshire – Staveley and Clay Cross Libraries may move location to save money.
• Haringey – Proposed £675k cut in opening hours, £30k cut in newspapers
• Manchester – Northenden Library to move to church hall.
• North Northamptonshire – Volunteers take over Raunds Library, last of ten to have done so.
• Nottingham – Proposed £1.5m cut with 31 FTE posts lost.
• Swindon – £660k cut

National news

• As British Library faces fallout of cyber attack—what can arts bodies do to combat ransomware threats? – The Art Newspaper. Personal information stolen in successful hack by criminal group, causing the British Library problems months afterwards: “from early in the new year a phased return of certain key services will begin, starting with the most crucial component—the main catalogue—a reference-only version of which will be back online from 15 January, further facilitating the manual ordering which is available in the Reading Rooms. Other interim services will include increased on-site access to manuscripts and special collections”
• Libraries Connected Awards: Watch video of our 2023 winners – Libraries Connected. “Werrington Community Library, the Business and IP Centre at Oxfordshire Libraries and the team from Kent Prison Libraries.”
• Library spending up 3%, CIPFA data shows, but still lags behind rising demand for services – BookSeller. “The survey also shows that the income libraries received rose by 3% over the last financial year, from £916 per 1,000 people in 2021/22 to £939 per 1,000 people in 2022/23. CIPFA said this is a “welcome relief to the financial pressure on libraries as high inflation continues to increase their running costs”.” [This is of course nonsense – ONS shows inflation was around 8.6% so this “up” in spending actually shows a sizeable decease – Ed.]. Issues compare figures from 2021/2 to 2022/3 rather than the far more useful pre-lockdown figure. Two-fifths of library services did not reply. Full report from CIPFA not available unless a few hundred pounds is given to them. No estimate of number of libraries available.
• Millions wasted on attempt to create nationwide UK library website, campaigners claim – Guardian. “Tim Coates among those to criticise government, Arts Council and British Library bid to create a ‘single digital presence’ for libraries” … “The “Single Digital Presence” (SDP) – renamed LibraryOn – was meant to bring together public libraries in one website to enable the public to access collections across the country. The problem has been that there are 150 library authorities in England alone, each with their own technology and management systems.” … Coates says “We’re now 10 years later and – after several reviews and studies and about £6m”

International news

• Asia – Literature In All Its Glory: Spotlighting Asia’s Most Beautiful Libraries – Travel and Leisure. “, we trace the most beautiful libraries in Asia, which not only draw from the region’s yesteryears but also cultivate a culture steeped in literature, community spirit, and the preservation of old-world charm.”
• Australia – Libraries in regional towns are building community on a shoestring budget – Guardian. “Despite a record increase in public library funding by the NSW government, most operate on the cost of a few new books per resident a year” … “The NSW government is set to deliver $40.89m in funding for public libraries in 2023-24, up from $24.53m in 2018-19, with another $6m distributed in grants for infrastructure and service upgrades.” … “ervices such as Rainbow Storytime – a Pride event that involves drag queens reading stories to children – have been delivered against the backdrop of campaigns against inclusive programming”
  • Eastern suburbs council warns library users of potential data breach – Sydney Morning Herald. “a cyberattack on an external software system that is used by the library to manage room bookings, issue fines and grant computer access and printing.”
  • I leave our library with a greater burden – and that’s my reward – WA Today. “A State Library Victoria report in 2018 revealed that “every dollar invested in public libraries generates $4.30 of benefits to the local community”. If I could observe the benefits of libraries even before conducting research, it is clear evidence of their positive impact. Libraries improve community connection. They reduce waste as resources are passed around. They are cost-effective.”
• New Zealand – There is such thing as a society – Newsroom. “Local public services here in Aotearoa under the last Labour government may have been somewhat sheltered from the worst of the cuts occurring globally under widespread austerity measures during the 2010s. Any of that cushioning is likely to disappear under the new Government.”. Cuts to UK libraries since 2010 particularly noted.
• Russia – ‘No, that’s fascism’: the librarian who defied Russia’s purge of LGBTQ+ books – Guardian. “When Vladimir Kosarevsky was ordered to destroy books referring to same-sex relationships, he raised the alarm instead – then went to Spain to rebuild his life” … ” “I had been discriminated against many times. Now I had to be the one who censors things? And destroys books? No, that’s fascism.””
• USA – Meet the 2024 I Love My Librarian Award Honorees – American Libraries. Public librarians honoured for work with refugees, expansion of services, social media. genealogy.
  • How a Bay Area librarian became an Instagram star – San Francisco Chronicle. “n the video watched nearly 740,000 times on Instagram, Threets described his conversation with a child who walked up to the desk holding out two $20 bills. The child’s grandparent was outside in the car, too worried about overdue books to come inside. Assured by Threets no fines were due, the child ran outside and returned with a grandparent.”
  • Laws banning semi-automatic weapons and library censorship to take effect in Illinois – Independent. “Libraries that indiscriminately ban books will not be eligible for state funds. They must adopt the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights stating “materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.””
  • Ten Stories That Shaped 2023 – LIS News. Censorship, AI.

Local news by authority

• Bournemouth Christchurch Poole – Oakdale Library send ‘big thank you’ for food donations – Bournemouth Echo. “The library, in Wimborne Road, collects food donations all year round, working as a food donation point along with several libraries in the conurbation. However, the library holds a individual collection every Christmas for Poole food bank, with many donating every year to help those in need, made even more important by the Cost of Living Crisis.” 
• Bradford – Funding could see services at Bradford libraries modernised – Telegraph and Argus. “Bradford Council hopes to introduce wi-fi, self service printing and digital tablet loans later in the year – and has submitted a bid to the arts body to fund the changes.” – Second bid to Libraries Improvement Fund.
• Bromley / Greenwich – Bromley and Greenwich library workers protest over pay – This is Local London. “Unite workers’ union members working in libraries in Bromley and Greenwich staged a protest outside the Eltham Centre on December 21 against the service provider, Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL). The demonstration comes after Unite claimed this week that library workers for GLL were experiencing “very low” rates of pay. They said in a statement on December 19 that some staff were being paid as low as £12.10 an hour.”
• Calderdale – RAAC: Calderdale library shut until next month after safety risk concrete discovered – Halifax Courier. Todmorden Library.
  • Culture secretary will not direct local inquiry into library provision in Calderdale – BookSeller. “Lucy Frazer, the Secretary of State at the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS), has decided not to direct a local inquiry into library provision in Calderdale, after saying she was “minded not to” in September”
  • Letter to Councillor Scullion, Leader Calderdale Council – Gov.uk. “The library changes in Calderdale approved by the Council’s Cabinet on 9 November 2020 resulted in a revised statutory library service provision. In summary, the Secretary of State understands that the revised statutory service comprises 12 static libraries (1 x Central, 6 x Hub and 5 x Community); and a home library service.”
• Cardiff – Campaigners kick back over potential plans to cut library opening times to save Cardiff Council money – Cardiff Herald. “A group of authors, publishers and library campaigners have come together to call on Cardiff Council to drop its proposal to change library opening times and use more volunteers to operate the service.”
• Coventry – The ’70s library is not past its due date  – The Boar. “The need to make literature accessible to everyone is just as important today as it was back in the 1970s, and I hope that libraries continue to thrive and provide a place for everyone to escape to fictional worlds and discover new stories.  “
• Denbighshire – Library opening hours cut by 40% across county to save £360k a year – Nation Cymru. “cabinet gave the green light on Tuesday to cut library opening times by 40% in order to save £360k per year. The decision was made despite a public consultation garnering 4,500 responses in which over 90% strongly disagreed with the proposals.”
• Derbyshire – Derbyshire council moves closer to relocating Staveley and Clay Cross libraries – Derbyshire Times. “Derbyshire County Council has moved a step closer to relocating Staveley and Clay Cross libraries as part of cost-saving plans despite a limited and mixed response following public consultations.” … “The council stated that the majority were supportive of plans to relocate Clay Cross Library but 44per cent disagreed or strongly disagreed with the proposal raising concerns about accessibility and parking and a dislike for the library becoming part of another building.” … “Concerning Staveley Library, 67per cent of respondents either disagreed or strongly disagreed with the proposal to relocate the library and 24per cent agreed or strongly agreed with the planned move with some raising concerns about accessibility and parking.”
• Devon – Crediton Library extending its opening hours from January to March – Crediton Courier. “4 as part of the Warm Libraries and Warm Banks initiatives to support the community during these colder months. The charity Libraries Unlimited is funding it to open 10am to 1pm every Wednesday. It will be offering a full library service along with free refreshments, colouring, jigsaws and tabletop games. ”
  • Free Devon films in Crediton Library – Crediton Courier. “The evening, organised by the Folklore Library and Archive, is part of the weekly free events taking place as part of the Warm Spaces initiative, funded by a grant from the National Grid”
  • Funding to help set up a community reading space available – North Devon Gazette. Council “Grants of up to £300 are available through The Community Support Library Fund and aims to help local groups set up a reading space alongside existing community activities or services.”
• Gloucestershire – Longhope bus stop transformed into community space – BBC. Now a book exchange. “Ann Newbury, who helped set it up, said she hopes villagers use the space “as a library” and “to chat”. “Libraries have taken a big hit in finance cuts for local authorities and books are so “important,” she added.”
• Haringey – Budget Consultation Survey – Haringey Council. Proposed £675k cut in opening hours, £30k cut in newspapers,
• Hertfordshire – Letter to residents from Richard Roberts, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council – Hertfordshire Council. “All our libraries are open and thriving and last year, over 5.5 million of you passed through their doors.”
  • Superworm is most borrowed book from Hertfordshire libraries – Bishop’s Stortford Independent. “During the summer holidays this year, around 20,000 children visited libraries to take part in the annual Summer Reading Challenge, Ready, Set, Read. That’s 25% more than in 2022.” … ” slipper swap events when 536 new pairs were handed out to the elderly and infirm in a bid to prevent slips, trips and falls.”
• Kirklees – New Year’s Honour for former Kirklees Chief Librarian – Kirklees Council. “she became President of Libraries Connected in June 2020 where she positioned libraries as a place to rebuild and reconnect when the pandemic ended.” … “Carol joins former Kirklees Libraries colleagues Andy Wright, Jon Davis and Judith Robinson who received British Empire Medals in 2022, 2020 and 2019 respectively.”
• Lancashire – Rawtenstall Library will temporarily close next month – Lancashire Telegraph. “The library will close for around four weeks from Monday, January 8, while investigative work is undertaken on the staircase.”
• Lewisham -‘It’s wonderful’: Man recovering from mental breakdown by reading books sets up five free libraries – London News Online.
• Manchester – Northenden Community Library reopens in new home in the village – Manchester Council. “Wythenshawe Community Housing Group (WCHG), Parkway Green building on Palatine Road which has housed the library for ten years is now being repurposed which means that the community library is moving. It will re-open in Northenden village on Tuesday 2 January 2024 in St Wilfrid’s Church Hall”
  • Experience Manchester Libraries from the comfort of your home – Manchester Council. “The £20,250 grant awarded from the Library On programme, and funded by Arts Council England, will allow the creation of virtual tours of all the Manchester library venues for the first time. It will give viewers an immersive experience, enabling them to explore our libraries broad and diverse sections, historical nuances and architecture, all from the comfort of their screens, before making visits.”
• North Northamptonshire – Volunteers take on last threatened library in North Northants – BBC. “The transfer of Raunds library to community management completes the handover of 10 book-lending facilities in the North Northamptonshire area. The Raunds facility will be jointly run by the town’s Community Library Trust and Creating Tomorrow College.”

• Nottingham – 2024/25 Budget savings proposals – Nottingham Council. “Undertake an assessment of the Library Service provision whilst maintaining a comprehensive and efficient service offer appropriate to the needs of our citizens. Will require a further public consultation regarding a review of the Council’s Library Needs Assessment and ‘the Next Chapter’ Libraries Strategy” Proposed £1.5m cut with 31 FTE posts lost.
  • Council launches tender process for £960,000 book supply contract for Nottingham libraries – West Bridgford Wire. “The move is aimed at securing a book supply contract for the city’s library service from 2024 to 2030. Savings of over £750,000 per year could come from the new arrangement.” … “The contract, valued at £960,000 and impacting all city wards, is part of Nottingham’s participation in the East Midlands and Mid Anglia (EMMA) libraries stock consortium. This consortium, comprising eight other library authorities, enables members to combine their spending power to secure significant discounts on book stock, thereby maximising library budgets and ensuring the best value for the Council.”
• Oxfordshire – Wallingford partners working to tackle ASB outside library – Herald Series. “The manager informed the council that the ASB incidents included the depositing of drug paraphernalia. The anti-social behaviour reportedly left at least one member of the library staff ‘intimidated,’ who was employed to work at the facility in the evenings.”
• Rotherham – Rotherham market and library image released – BBC. “An artist’s impression has been released showing what Rotherham’s new market and library complex will look like. Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council said the “modern” build will give visitors “a sense of space and scale”. The complex is a key part of the authority’s town centre regeneration “masterplan”. The library, markets, food hall, gallery, and event spaces will be built on a single site off Drummond Street.”
• Sheffield – Warning over huge costs to save Sheffield’s historic Central Library building – Star. “Strategy and Resource Policy committee members accepted a number of proposals, including the allocation of £420k for surveying costs, to ensure the future of the grade II-listed art deco Graves Building on Surrey Street.” … “We know that this project will cost from £25m to what could be £60-100m depending on the options pursued.”
• Shropshire – New Year Honours 2024 recognises Oswestry librarian – Border Counties Advertizer. BEM: “Richard Charles Fowler, aged 70, is a founder member and trustee of the Community Managed Libraries National Peer Network (CMLNPN), a body that advocates for community-led libraries in England and Wales.” … “Harbury Village Library (HVL) is now a nationally recognised example of a community hub. They provide a focal point for their local communities and many, like HVL, are now nationally registered Warm Welcome Spaces.”
  • Library support group hands over £10,000 for new shelving – Shropshire Star. ” Friends of Church Stretton Library presented Shropshire Council with a cheque for the money to pay for the units, which have been installed at the library.”
• Southend – Southend MP Anna Firth urged to help protect libraries – Echo News. “Southend Council’s Conservative administration revealed proposals to close two of the city’s six libraries to help tackle its £14 million financial black hole. While no “firm decisions” have been made, the proposals could see the city’s other four libraries “downgraded” with reduced opening hours. Last week the Conservative MP was pictured at Leigh Library, helping to promote the Reading Agency’s winter reading challenge.”
• Swindon – Swindon council has ‘no plans’ for library closures amid cuts – Swindon Advertiser. “There are no plans to close any of Swindon’s five core libraries, despite needing to make cuts of £660,000 from the service’s budget.” … “”We are looking to make sure we can keep them open by changing the way we run them.””
• Wakefield – Wakefield Council receives grant to help combat loneliness across the area – Wakefield Council. DCMS/ACE funding £88k: “The Know Your Neighbourhood project is designed to widen participation in volunteering and tackle loneliness in 27 areas across England.”
  • Inside a warm bank – where Brits struggling with bills are finding shelter: ‘The tea helps a lot’ – Big Issue. “It is one of more than 7,000 Warm Welcome Spaces established in the last year to respond to the rising cost of living and provide for the 14.4 million people living in poverty and seven million people experiencing chronic loneliness in the UK. “
• Warwickshire – Everyone is welcome at Warwickshire’s libraries – Warwickshire Council. “From coffee mornings to tea and talk sessions; family history to crafternoon teas the events are free to attend and include warm refreshments.”
  • County’s £370k plan to put mobile sensory library on Warwickshire’s roads – Stratford Herald. Bid to Arts Council England “a very compelling case”.
  • Head to a Warwickshire library for some murder mystery – Stratford Herald. “Whoever’s commissioned will be expected to develop a script, recruit actors, run rehearsals and make sure the performances go smoothly. Warwickshire Libraries advertisement suggests performances won’t be limited to the county’s libraries but may also take place in ‘other literary locations’ across Warwickshire.” … ““As part of Warwickshire Libraries’ new National Portfolio Organisation status, granted by Arts Council England, we will be focussing on community driven projects that enhance access to culture, art and literature for free “
• Westmorland and Furness – Ulverston library petition presented to House of Commons – The Mail. “The Conservative MP for Barrow and Furness Simon Fell, presented the petition calling for the government to ensure Ulverston has a full library service as soon as possible. Ulverston’s library building on King’s Road has been closed since September following the discovery of issues with the building’s electrics during routine statutory checks.” 600 signatures

• Wiltshire – Free hot water bottles and blankets given out by Wiltshire libraries – Salisbury Journal. “The ‘warm packs’, which are being offered as part of a partnership between Warm and Safe Wiltshire and The Rural Communities Energy Support Network, will be available to collect at all Wiltshire Council libraries from this winter. Each pack will contain a scarf, thermal hat and gloves, fleece blanket and a hot water bottle with a cover, and there is no criteria that must be met to be able to collect one.”
• Wokingham – Beloved Wokingham Librarian retires after 30 years – Reading Chronicle. “Philippa Tegg decided to retire after turning 70 in the summer”
• Wolverhampton – Wolverhampton’s libraries get £86,000 grant to help tackle loneliness – Express and Star. “The funding, from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Know Your Neighbourhood Project, will enable the service to deliver a range of events across the city’s libraries and community centres between now and March 2025 that will help people to connect with one another.”
• Worcestershire – Malvern Library targeted in “lead theft incident from roof” – Malvern Gazette. “It led to the registration services department having to be temporarily relocated and children’s books also being moved”

Editorial

Writing Public Libraries News can be, well, slightly depressing at times but this week is a pleasure for a couple of reasons. The first is I would like to celebrate with you the opening a new library. And not just a new library but the first public library to be named, it is believed, after any non-white woman in the history of UK public libraries. So step forward, Southwark Libraries, long a leading light in public library provision and the new Una Marson Library, named after the Jamaican activist who wrote poems and plays and was the first black woman to be employed by the BBC during World War Two.

This got me thinking about how many public libraries are named after women at all in the UK. Discounting those which are based in community centres or other buildings named after women but where the library itself is not named after one itself then I can find only two examples, one each in England and Scotland, so far. So, another step forward, this time to Durning Library in Lambeth, named after its funder Jemima Durning, and the Jennie Lee Library, in Lochgelly (Fife) named after one of the leading figures in the founding of the Open University. Pretty cool. Does anyone have any more? Or is it just three for the UK? Hmm, come to think of it, I wonder how many are named after men …?

In other news, it’s been a week of announcements of libraries opening/closing due to refurbishments, which makes me smile a bit. Plus also there’s some bad news about RAAC and a few other things but it’s nearly Christmas so let’s focus on the positives. And work out how we can get a library named after Miriam Margoyles. The opening of that one should bring a smile. And, knowing Miriam, a bit of swearing too.

Changes by authority

• Blaenau Gwent – Blaina Library closed for repairs
• Caerphilly – Rhymney Library to reopen in January after £400k refurbishment
• Devon – St Thomas Library closed due to increase in rent, alternatives sought.
• Gateshead – Crawcrook and Pelaw Libraries to be refurbished.
• Herefordshire – Council plans to move Herefore Library to Shire Hall (2023), not Maylord.
• Middlesbrough – Central Library closed for refurbishment.
• Rotherham – Swinton Library closed due to RAAC: moved to civic hall until new library opens.
• Southwark – New Una Marson Library opens
• Suffolk – Beccles Library reopens after £500k refurbishment, including “pod” for Barclays Bank.
• Surrey – Redhill Library temporarily closed due to RAAC
• Swansea – Review of library services, Central Library to moved to new location.

National news

• Giving children books is good – but saving libraries for them is even better – Guardian / Letters. “That so many children today do not own a book is disturbing, but it’s just as bad, or worse, that their access to libraries is shrinking. A number of local libraries have been closed under pretty much every local authority, and book budgets are terribly constrained. This denies children the access to the enormous range of books that libraries have been able to offer in the past. Ownership of a few books is really no substitute for this.”
• Know Your Neighbourhood Knowledge Sharing Event – Libraries Connected. Tuesday 30 January 10am to Noon, Teams. Focus on how public libraries can deal with loneliness [amongst their users, that is, not their staff]
• Libraries Connected Awards 2024 – Libraries Connected. “We are looking for individuals or teams working in public libraries in England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and The Crown Dependencies who have had a positive impact on the library service, library users or the local community. This could by introducing an innovative new idea or by going the extra to mile to provide an outstanding service.”
• Scottish public libraries: we must protect them – Herald. “While undertaking a research project about post-pandemic reading in Scotland – published in our Reading in Scotland report – the Scottish Book Trust found many people who rely on, and love, their local library. The study found 75% of people surveyed used the library to get print books for themselves before the pandemic restrictions, and 94% of those with children used the library to get print books for them.”

International news

• Bangladesh – Md Jamal Uddin receives a global award from the UK – Daily Observer. “set up 10,234 Salon libraries and 98 community libraries in Bangladesh.”
• New Zealand – Get your nose stuck into Wellington City Libraries’ summer reading adventure – Wellington Government. “Prizes include collectible badges, ice cream vouchers, books and movie tickets, as well as family passes to Zealandia, Wellington Zoo and more. Plus, the ultimate honour is to be crowned Supreme Champion of Words, Books and Deeds.”
• South Korea – A Study on the Efficient Establishment and Operation of a Gallery in Public Libraries – Journal of the Korean Society for Library and Information Science. “The result of the analysis proposes the followings for an efficient establishment and operation of a gallery in public libraries: firstly, employing an art gallery curator according to the library’s situation. Secondly, establishing a gallery of at least 55㎡ in size. Thirdly, allocating an appropriate budget. Fourthly, if possible, gallery rental requests are reviewed by external experts and a gallery needs to be rented out to the public free of charge. Fifthly, having an operating manual or a regulation. Sixthly, a gallery should be operated directly by the library.”

• USA – Why banning or burning books is the start of something terrifying – Sydney Morning Herald. “All but four states in the US have introduced pro-censorship laws. “We are now outpacing even the McCarthy era in terms of censorship,” she says. “This should be a global concern because we are seeing other nations who are copy-catting the clamping down on freedom of speech.””
  • An Interview with Seattle’s Chief Librarian, Tom Fay – Urbanist. “The library can’t put its head in the sand. I don’t hide things that we do. Like when we look at having issues in our restrooms from smoking various drugs, we’ve had to put in sensors.”. Focuses on security and attracting new immigrants. ” every time I go into the library, I’m looking for what are they doing to activate the space to really engage people of all ages, right? Because I think that is the biggest challenge. “
  • How a Des Moines 11-year-old with autism found confidence to speak with library books – Des Moines Register. “Anna’s experience at the library also has evolved into something more for Anna when she started reading to groups of children that visit the library.” … “Going to the library has helped Anna “come out of her shell,” according to her mother. “I think she loves seeing other children smile,” 
  • Jay-Z Is Auctioning Custom Library Cards to Benefit the Brooklyn Public Library – Artnet. “The legendary rapper Jay-Z is auctioning off a signed black leather Pinel et Pinel briefcase filled with custom metal library cards, each showcasing an example of his album artwork from across the decades. The sale is hosted by Christie’s New York and Roc Nation, an entertainment company founded and run by Jay-Z. The estimate is only being provided on request, and all proceeds will go toward the Brooklyn Public Library.”
  • The Week in Libraries: December 8, 2023 – Publishers Weekly. Montana removes requirement for librarianship qualification for senior librarians; 75% of Oregon library staff feel unsafe due to crime; Wisconsin aims to allow librarians to be prosecuted if they allow certain books to be seen by minors;

Local news by authority

• Aberdeen – Crunch decision for Aberdeen libraries looms – Morning Star. “councillors will have the chance to reverse a decision to axe libraries in some of the city’s most deprived areas this week. At its budget meeting in March, the SNP-led council backed the closure of Cornhill, Cults, Ferryhill, Kaimhill, Northfield and Woodside libraries as well as Bucksburn Swimming Pool, but campaigners against the decision fought on.”
  • A million pound mistake? Costs revealed as council could reopen Bucksburn Swimming Pool – Press and Journal. “Campaigners fighting to save the pool and Cornhill, Cults, Ferryhill, Kaimhill, Northfield and Woodside libraries launched a judicial review of the decision.” due to equality concerns for elderly and disabled. Original council impact assessments inadequate. “Councillors will be given the choice to reinstate the swimming pool, and the six libraries as a separate job lot.”.. “The combined cost of recommissioning the partially emptied buildings [libraries] comes to £128,000. Then the annual running of the six buildings would total £346,000.”. £320k also needed in repairs for closed libraries.
• Blaenau Gwent – Why a Gwent library has been closed since last week – Yahoo News. “Blaina Library, one of six libraries in Blaenau Gwent run by the Aneurin Leisure Trust, has been closed since just before 6pm on Wednesday, November 29. According to a statement posted on the Trust’s official X, formerly Twitter, account, the closure is due to the need for some “urgent maintenance work” to be carried out.”
• Caerphilly – Library given “tentative” reopening after months of delays – Caerphilly Observer. “The library, which has undergone a £400,000 refurbishment was originally set to open in the summer of 2023 but has been plagued by ongoing problems. “. Vandalism, redesign and lift problems have delayed opening, now pencilled in for January.
• Camden – The Library of Things – Camden’s festive friend – Camden Council. “There are many items that residents can borrow to help out this festive season including a party kit, sound systems and a pop-up bed to host friends and family.”

• Croydon – Everything really is political on a stroll around South Norwood – Inside Croydon. “Britain 2023, where the 20th Century libraries are closed and 21st Century foodbanks take their place”
• Devon – St Thomas Library will reopen in its temporary new home before Christmas – Devon Council. “The former library building in Church Road closed on Saturday 21 October after its lease was not renewed. A new lease was offered at an increased rent, but we decided it was unaffordable. The pop-up library in the Emmanuel Hall will deliver many popular community services until a new permanent home is found.”
• Edinburgh – Call for more ‘little free libraries’ in Edinburgh’s less affluent areas – Edinburgh Live. “Greens city councillor Dan Heap said there were already a “fair number of them” locally but they were often located in “places of affluence”.”
• Gateshead – Crawcrook and Pelaw libraries to be refurbished – Gateshead Council. “Early next year, building improvement work will be carried out at Crawcrook and Pelaw libraries to ensure the sites continue to be modern, flexible and welcoming community spaces. Both libraries will benefit from improved lighting, decoration and internal fittings. Space for books will remain integral, alongside improved space for community activities.”

• Guernsey – Library marks fifth anniversary of child section – BBC. “In the first year after the revamp, library visits rose by 8% to more than 160,000, and children’s book loans also rose, with 2023 figures on course to exceed those from 2019, staff said.” .. children “always so excited about the staircases, the secret passageways and the reading nooks “
• Hampshire – Hampshire Libraries to help tackle loneliness at Christmas – Eastleigh News. Lists events, regular activities and library services.
• Herefordshire – This is why plans for Hereford’s new library are wrong – Hereford Times / Letters. Council plans to move Hereford Library into Shire Hall. “I feel this decision has been made with the primary driver being to find an economic use for the building, rather than what is in the best interest of the library service.” … “a serious error of judgement has been made to not take up the opportunity of a city-centre location in Maylord Orchards. This would offer for greater opportunities to engage with customers”
• Highlands – High Life Libraries bid to develop ‘Sense for Communities’ project accepted – Strathspey and Badenoch Herald. “High Life Highland have announced that a bid for funding to develop a sensory project to improve the wellbeing of “hard-to-reach” groups has been approved, after they applied to the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC).”
  • £6000 for High Life Highland library sensory project – Northern Times. “d £6000 from the national Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF) to develop its Making Sense for Communities’ project. It aims to engage with and improve the health and wellbeing of hard-to-reach groups including those with autism, dementia, physical impairment, and those who are socially isolated.”. Includes sensory projector.
• Hull – Hull Council plan after ‘warm zone’ boiler breakdowns – BBC. “Two council-run “warm zones” in Hull are not living up to their name after their central heating broke. Western Library and Greenwood Avenue Library are now using portable heaters to keep the temperatures inside up.”
• Isle of Man – Henry Bloom Noble Library praised by UK charity for its ‘impactful services’ – Isle of Man Today. “The CEO and president of ‘Libraries Connected’ said the library buildings should reflect local needs and this is evident on the island.”
• Manchester – Manchester’s Libraries Are Becoming ‘Warm Welcome Spaces’ With Free Hot Drinks And Wi-Fi This Winter – Secret Manchester. “The scheme spans free hot drinks, free Wi-Fi, free data SIM cards, newspapers, information and advice and extra signposting to support services in the city.”
• Middlesbrough – Historic Central Library in Middlesbrough closes doors for refurbishment – Gazette Live. “The ground floor of the library will be transformed into a captivating space incorporating a family-focused library and separate adult lending space, to host events and activities promoting a lifelong love of literacy and creativity.”
• North Somerset – New scheme provides safe spaces for women and girls across North Somerset – North Somerset Council. “Purple chairs are being installed in libraries across North Somerset to provide a clear beacon of safety for women and girls. The ‘Purple Chair Scheme’ provides a safe space for women and girls to access information about health and wellbeing, as well as support and resources available to them in whatever circumstances they find themselves in. This may be when someone is experiencing domestic or racial abuse, or addiction issues.”
• Nottingham – We Explore the New Central Library – Leftlion. “it was Dolly Parton who opened the new Nottingham Central Library. She had teleported in via a specially-recorded broadcast to give her blessing to the new building alongside councillors and the city’s most bookish literary bods. Reading, reading, reading, reading, Dolly said, more or less. Please take the books out just because you can.” … ” As well as displays of local artists and a well-buffed espresso machine, there’s a walk-around exhibition detailing Broadmarsh’s history, a sensory room in which you can disguise yourself within a pod of whales (and about time too), free Wi-Fi with 55 computers on which to type and surf (the net, not with whales), and we think we’re forgetting something – oh yes, nearly 200,000 books”
• Rotherham – Swinton Library moved to civic hall after survey shows RAAC in roof – BBC. “A library earmarked for demolition has been moved to a nearby civic hall after a survey revealed issues with its roof. Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) was discovered in the roof of Swinton community library near Rotherham, the council said. The authority said it temporarily closed the building last week as a “precautionary measure”, in line with other local authorities. The library building was already earmarked for demolition. “A newly-refurbished library is planned to be opened early next year at the former customer service centre building [nearby] as part of a major redevelopment of Swinton town centre,” the council said.”
• Shropshire – New shelving for two Shropshire libraries – Shropshire Council. “The Friends of Church Stretton” have provided shelving for that library while ACE have provided new shelving for Bridgnorth Library. “The Arts Council England funding will also be providing new shelving for libraries in Shrewsbury, Ludlow, Oswestry and Whitchurch. Dates for these installations will be confirmed soon.”
  • New Ready Reads service launched for Whitchurch Library users – Shropshire Council. “A new Ready Reads service has been launched for people affected by the temporary closure of Whitchurch Library. Library staff will take requests for books when they are at the town’s market on Fridays, and readers will be able to collect their choices from Whitchurch Heritage Centre”
• Southwark – Library named after BBC’s first black radio producer opens to public – London News Online “A brand new library has opened to the public, named after the feminist, activist and writer Una Marson. The Una Marson Library in Thurlow Street, Southwark, opened today as part of the council’s redevelopment of the Aylesbury area. The new library will offer book and DVD loans, newspapers, public access PCs, printing and copying facilities, meeting rooms, study spaces, free Wi-Fi and a full programme of events that will run throughout the year. “

• Suffolk – Bestselling author of the Rizzoli & Isles series Tess Gerritsen is coming to Bury St Edmunds Library – Suffolk Libraries.
  • Beccles Library reopens in former home after £500k refurbishment – BBC. “Beccles Library in Blyburgate, Suffolk, had been operating from a temporary location since 11 September to allow for building work to be completed. The entire roof was replaced, together will external windows and doors in the main building.” … “Barclays Bank will also have a presence in the library, thanks to a newly-refurbished glass pod, after one of its the branches closed in November.”
• Surrey – Redhill Library closed with immediate effect following RAAC investigation – Surrey Council. “At present, as the discovery of RAAC in the library building is very recent, further urgent work will need to be undertaken before we can provide any details on mitigation measures or timelines for re-opening.”
  • Redhill Library closes for second time due to dangerous concrete – BBC. “The library closed on 27 September but reopened the following day after investigations by structural engineers.”
• Swansea – Contract for Feasibility brief for a libraries “plus” and Community hub model in Swansea – Sell2Wales. “Swansea Council are seeking to inter [sic – Ed.] into a contract for the review of the local library function.
• Warwickshire – Warwickshire libraries set to offer a warm welcome this winter – Warwickshire Council. “Warwickshire Libraries will be hosting a range of Warm Welcome events this winter. From coffee mornings to tea and talk sessions; family history to crafternoon teas the events are free to attend and include warm refreshments.”
  • Demolition-threatened Gibberd library loses listing lifeline – Building Design. “The plans, which were lodged in autumn last year – but are yet to be determined, would deliver a new library and business centre and up to 65 homes on a 1.85ha chunk of the town centre. In addition to the Gibberd library, the site currently houses shop units, a Royal Mail sorting office and surface car parking.”
  • New digital grand piano available to play at Rugby Library – Warwickshire Council. “Headphones are provided so that you can learn and play privately, but the piano does feature two headphone jacks so that a friend or tutor can join in and listen.” … “This is the second digital grand piano available to use through Warwickshire Libraries, following the introduction of a similar piano at Nuneaton Library in 2022” 
• Westmorland and Furness – Council reviews next steps for Ulverston library – Westmorland Gazette. “A pop-up service at Ulverston Market Hall has opened this week as Westmorland and Furness council reviews plans for the closed library. ”
  • Ulverston Library service – your questions answered – Westmorland and Furness Council. Electical problems. “the building is secure, but it cannot be opened to the public as the main supply powering lights/heating is not operational”. Heating system and fabric of building also need attention.
• Wolverhampton – Libraries get £86k to help tackle loneliness – BBC. “The money will go towards events across Wolverhampton such as group reading, walking and crafts. It aims to improve people’s wellbeing and pride through volunteering and community events.” … “funding from the government’s Know Your Neighbourhood Project”
• Worcestershire – Worcestershire libraries provide free warm spaces during winter months – Worcester News.

Editorial

The Autumn Statement may have had, on the face of it, very little to do with public libraries. But, faced with a windfall increase in tax due to inflation, the Government decided to spend it not on public services – which suffer proportionately from inflation – but on tax decreases. This course of action was always going to be very tempting for the Government even not so close to an election – party ideology is all about reducing the tax burden – but it spells further gloom for libraries. And, with budgets having been drastically cut during the Cameron premiership and just about static since this is going to be seriously problematic. Because libraries, despite not just being about the buildings, are primarily building based. And after thirteen years of cuts or budgetary stagnation, those buildings are starting to look a but unloved. And even if there is a change of government soon, it’s going to be hard to steer, let along change, the course of the huge decaying public services ocean liner that is SS Austerity. Let’s hope that there are no ice-bergs.

Something I’ve noticed in public libraries in the decades (I started in 1994) I have worked in them is that where just simply book-lending was enough to keep the place buzzing, that is no longer the case. First what was needed were story-times, then the Summer Reading Challenge, then reading groups then knit and natter. This trend is not going to end soon but something else, apart from the obvious need for more digital investment, that is obvious to me is the need to boost those parts of the service still going strong. One of the main ones of these are the spaces for children. They need to be fun and wow and a place that children and parents want to go back to. And that requires investment, not just maintenance. You can read this week how wealthy public-service-committed Singapore has managed this. The sector may have to endure some more ice-cold waters before it comes anywhere close. But a bright warm children’s library or two doesn’t cost all that much and such heat may act as a nice introduction to families. A little icebreaker, if you will.

Changes by local authority

• Cheshire East – Opening hours changed, local town councils help fund service.
• Denbighshire – 50% cut to opening hours in all libraries proposed.
• East Lothian – Margaret Oliphant library changes location (October) health and wellbeing webpage launched (October)
• Edinburgh – Blackhall Library remains closed after discovery of aerated concrete
• Moray – Cuts expected
• Norfolk – Fakenham Library sustainable upgrade work delays opening until 2024
• Renfrewshire – £7m refurbished Paisley Library due to open end of November
• Stoke on Trent – £88k one-off funding to set up volunteer groups for new parents, fathers, bereavement support.
• Surrey – Biodegradeable library cards introduced (October)
• Warwickshire – New electric van for home library service; mobile library timetable changed in preparation for two new electric mobile libraries in 2024 (October)

National news

• Announcing our new grants recipients – LibraryOn. “The £500,000 fund will be distributed among 21 projects, with an average award of £19,350. It means 846 individual library branches will directly benefit from the fund. While we couldn’t grant every application, 84% were successful in receiving funding and broke down into these categories: 11 virtual tours; 6 library apps; 4 LMS upgrades. Thank you to all the services who took the time to submit applications.”
• Cyber attack on British Library raises concerns over lack of UK resilience – Financial Times. “Cyber-intelligence experts warned the incursion highlighted under-investment in cyber resilience by the government, particularly in critical infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and local authorities.” … “In a post on the dark web and seen by the Financial Times, the hackers released low-resolution images of British Library employees’ passports and opened bidding for an undisclosed set of documents at 20 bitcoin, equivalent to almost £600,000.”
• Dagger in the Library  – CWA. Public librarians invited to nominate crime writers for the library-specific award and also to ask their borrowers too. [I am Chair of Judges for this and so I know we’re looking for a judge from a Welsh public library too – do let me know if you are interested, thank you – Ed.]
• Play the Hidden Books Game – National Book Tokens. A welcome game returns. “Guess all 20 book titles in our virtual bookshop to win a £500/€500 National Book Token to spend in your favourite bookshops”
• ‘Malorie Blackman: The Power of Stories’ opens at the British Library – British Library [press release]. “Malorie Blackman OBE said: ‘Libraries are the great equaliser and, without them, literacy would become the province of the lucky few, rather than the birthright of everyone. I wouldn’t be a writer if it wasn’t for my local library, and I hope this exhibition – in the national library of the UK – shows that every child has the right to be seen and need to be heard in literature.’”

• Staying warm this winter – Arts Professional. “As winter approaches, with energy bills remaining stubbornly high, Libraries Connected Chief Executive Isobel Hunter says the Warm Welcome Campaign is more relevant than ever.” … “During the Christmas holidays, some libraries were even able to provide hot food, games and festive gifts for children. “This library is a lifesaver,” one parent told staff at a library in Sandwell, West Midlands. “If it wasn’t for the library over the holidays, I was scared the kids would go hungry. They’ve come here, had a hot drink and something to eat and gone home with a full belly.””
• Which public services will suffer most to pay for Tory tax cuts? – Guardian. “Libraries and other council services “likely to face another five years of real-terms cuts” after Autumn Statement.” see also Hunt’s new wave of austerity ‘will hit social care, libraries and swimming pools’ – I. “The Chancellor has spent all the financial headroom, Home Office official says”

International news

• Canada -Montreal bylaw to allow libraries to kick out unhygienic patrons – Global News. “Those who have “personal hygiene which inconveniences other users or the personnel,” will have to exit the public space upon request, a controversial public notice reveals. Sam Watts from the Welcome Hall Mission suggested to Global News that the City of Montreal was targeting “vulnerable” patrons, like those experience homelessness, and instead, should make efforts to create “solutions” for struggling individuals.”
• China / Hong Kong – Can Hong Kong libraries win back readers? Public facilities try every trick in the book to lose ‘boring’ label amid rise of e-texts, pandemic habits – South China Morning Post. Reading printed books and library usage has fallen since pandemic, in line with other countries. Libraries reducing restrictions on sound and use of phones to win back users.
• Czechia – Czech library on activities and clubs for children – NAPLE Sister Libraries. ““Czech small- and middle-sized libraries often aim at youngest children, and it is a good way to go, raising future readers and library visitors,” comments Jitka Šedinová, director of Municipal Library Semily. “However, in today’s society, we perceive the urgent need to pay attention to our 10+ year olds and teenagers; to provide them with space where they can safely spend their free time, and fill this time with fine, cool activities. And to do so, it is necessary to actually have the space and qualified staff, not to mention funds to cover all of that.””
• Singapore – The Big Read in short: How Singapore’s public libraries survived the digital onslaught – Today Online. “…  public libraries here are seeing increased number of visitors and plans are afoot to continuously rejuvenate and expand existing libraries; the five-storey Punggol Regional Library also opened its doors in April 2023″ … Apart from shifting their services online, libraries have also redesigned their physical spaces to go beyond being mainly repositories of books. Such moves — including opening a new Children’s Biodiversity Library in January next year — are also seen as important to attract young users and cultivate a love for reading and learning”
• USA – #VelshiBannedBookClub: Libraries Under Attack – MSNBC. ““There’s more than one way to ban a book.” We, as a nation, have set a dangerous precedent that worldview, misreading, and taste are enough to dictate what literature is accessible to our children and what literature is castaway and censored. What is the outcome? A generation of children shaped by one view, one reading, and one specific palate. That is not America. That is not freedom. The remedy? Support libraries. That is where literature can freely exist. The President of American Library Association joins the Velshi Banned Book Club on the importance of libraries.”
  • The Bigot in the Library – Wire. “As we chatted a bit more about how polarised society is, the lady said to me, “You know, if only Muslims were eradicated from the world, all our problems would be solved.”
  • Public Libraries – ProQuest / Music Library Association. A look at the history and current practice of music librarians in the USA.
  • S.F. libraries give these books out for free — and they’re flying off the shelves – San Francisco Chronicle. “…  visitors can now find a collection of texts that are intended to help those who want to recover from alcohol and drug addiction. They’re free for anyone to take, no library card required.”

Local news by authority

• Blaenau Gwent – Council hubs in Blaenau Gwent libraries welcomed as a ‘win-win’ – South Wales Argus. “calls have been made to increase the opening hours at some hubs to allow greater access to council services.”. All Welsh Public library standards have been met. “In June 2021, the council opened community hubs in the libraries to help provide council services. Cllr Dai Davies said: “I think locating the hubs in the libraries has worked really well on both sides, Aneurin Leisure Trust and the council work really well together.””
• Bristol – Bristol libraries hire security to tackle rowdy teenagers causing trouble – Bristol Post. “Some libraries in Bristol have hired security guards to tackle rowdy teenagers causing trouble during the school holidays. Libraries have had to shut or change their opening hours to deter anti-social behaviour which has put off some people from going there.” … “Another issue is a stark gap between how much libraries are used in different parts of Bristol. Computer usage is much higher in libraries in wealthier areas than poorer parts of the city, and ‘friends of’ groups supporting the libraries exist in places like Clifton, Westbury and Bishopston but not in others such as Avonmouth, Bishopsworth or Hartcliffe.”. Story covered in BBC, Daily Express , ITV and Daily Mail.
• Bromley – Orpington librarian appointed children’s libraries national chair – GLL [press release]. “Jenny Hawke, GLL’s Children’s Librarian at Orpington Library, Bromley has been appointed as Chair of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) National Youth Libraries Group.”
• Calderdale – Halifax residents are asked to share their Second World War memories at Central Library event – Halifax Courier. “… nationwide campaign organised by Their Finest Hour, a team based at the University of Oxford and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, which is collecting and preserving the everyday stories and objects of the Second World War”
• Cheshire East – Library opening hours to change from December  – Cheshire East Council. ” following ‘top-up’ funding from Crewe and Nantwich town councils for services in their areas, 31 hours per week of library opening time has been reinstated across the borough at sites where usage and demand is greatest.” … “The council is still inviting expressions of interest from town and parish councils to explore ways of working together to deliver library services in their area”
• Cheshire West and Chester – So Many New Activities Coming to Neston Library – About My Area. Child yoga, English Conversation Group, Lego group, reading group.
  • Parking charges in Cheshire West to be hiked by as much as two thirds – Cheshire Live. “We as a Labour administration in Cheshire West and Chester have said we will protect leisure centres and libraries at all costs; because, once you start closing leisure centres and libraries you’re on a slippery slope, and your focus on health and wellbeing goes straight out the window”
• Denbighshire – Library cuts in Denbighshire will ‘impact the vulnerable’ – Free Press. “Denbighshire County Council is proposing a 50 per cent reduction to the opening hours of all eight of the county’s Libraries and One Stop Shops.  A consultation on the plans came to a close on October 30.”
• Derbyshire – Library of the year award for Derbyshire library – Derbyshire Council. “Ripley Library, in the town’s Grosvenor Road, was announced as the winner of the prestigious Library/Librarian of the Year category at the RNA’s Winter Party and Industry Awards ceremony, which was held at the Leonardo Royal Hotel London City on Monday 13 November 2023. The RNA’s annual awards “celebrate the hard work and talent of any person, group or organisation who has championed the broad genre of romantic fiction in a positive way”.”
• Devon – Mobile libraries axed by cash-strapped DCC – Dawlish Today.
• Edinburgh – Blackhall Library to remain closed – for now – Edinburgh Reporter. “An Edinburgh library is to remain closed for the foreseeable future after it was discovered the ‘entire roof’ contains potentially dangerous crumbling concrete.”

• Glasgow – “Your ticket to the whole world”: 8 of the best libraries in Glasgow – Glasgow World. “Billy Connolly has always been passionate about libraries and reading having once said: “When I was an unhappy little boy, going to the library changed my life. It may even have saved it. Amazing as it sounds, literature can do that for you. Books are your ticket to the whole world. They’re a free ticket to the entire earth.” To celebrate The Big Yin’s 81st birthday, we’ve put together a list of some of the best libraries in Glasgow which you have to visit.”
• Hampshire – Extra consultation on Hampshire County Council library cuts plan – Petersfield Post. “The council’s financial strategy for 2025-26 was approved on November 9 but there will be more consultation on proposals to save £200,000 from its £1.2 million annual budget for buying new books and digital items such as eBooks, eAudiobooks and ePress for libraries.”
• Haringey – Highgate Library reopening delayed by Haringey Council – Times Series. “the reopening was postponed for last-minute changes to the plans by Haringey Council, made after a public consultation had taken place.”
• Lancashire – Visit your local library now to enjoy a warm space and a warmer welcome – Lancashire Council. “Three men all came into the library separately and sat on the sofa with a drink. After speaking with each man individually they started to attend events such the drop in café, Memories and Melodies, games afternoon and Chaps Who Chat. All three men admitted to feeling a bit isolated and were looking to meet other likeminded people.”

• Manchester – Manchester’s libraries are becoming ‘warm spaces’ with free hot drinks and Wi-Fi this winter – The Manc. “After tens of thousands of local residents visited the “non-judgemental safe spaces” to escape and take refuge from the cold back in 2022, Manchester City Council has decided to reintroduce its popular ‘Warm Welcome Spaces’ scheme once again this winter.”
  • Manchester Christmas book gift appeal now open for donations – Manchester Council. “during last year’s festive period alone the book gifting campaign distributed more than 10,000 books to 89 of the city’s community organisations. They, in turn, distributed the books to children and families at one of the many events and parties, including Santa visits, that were put on for families.”
• Moray – The future of leisure and libraries examined in Moray – Moray Council. “As part of the budget setting process, which needs to find £15m of savings over the next two years, Moray Council is inviting users of leisure and library services to take part in a survey and drop-in sessions to find out more about how these services could be delivered in future.” … “Libraries are also under scrutiny following the initial survey, which showed almost 55% of respondents would accept a reduction in service, with 45% saying they didn’t want any change.”
• Newcastle – Kenton Library diversifies its services for local residents  – Northeast Bylines. Knit and Natter, lego, crafts, baby social, Under 5s story-time.

• Norfolk – Fakenham library has reopening delayed to next year – Fakenham and Wells Times. “The Oak Street building, which has been closed since October 9, is having a number of works carried out on it, including; the gas boiler system replaced, the installation of new internal and cavity wall insulation, re-roofing to incorporate roof insulation, replacement atrium windows, a new mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system and new LED low energy lighting. “
• North Ayrshire – Citizens Advice energy help at North Ayrshire libraries – Largs and Millport Weekly News. ” … trained Citizens Advice advisers can help through free and confidential appointments throughout North Ayrshire.”
• North Northamptonshire – Students with learning disabilities to run library – BBC. “The trust runs four schools in Northamptonshire and one in Luton for children with a range of learning disabilities. Students aged 18 to 25 from Creating Tomorrow College will work alongside volunteers from RCLT to run the site. Peter Wathen, chairman of RCLT, said: “Raunds Community Library trustees and our marvellous team of volunteers look forward to an exciting future.”

• Nottinghamshire – Sherwood: £20million investment to transform Ollerton with town centre hub planned – West Bridgford Wire. Possible Levelling Up Fund money has two projects, the first may “… see a new public sector hub with services of the Town and District Council’s complemented by a brand-new state-of-the-art library, boutique cinema, and new commercial units”
• Plymouth – Libraries begin coat donation and pick-up scheme – BBC. “The Donate A Coat scheme has been launched in four libraries in Plymouth. The collection and drop-off of coats is anonymous, with no questions asked”. Resident says “”I think this is a brilliant idea. I wish I’d have thought of the idea myself because so many people are in dire need right now.””
• Renfrewshire – Inside Paisley’s new £7 million library – and there are Daleks in attendance – Herald Scotland. “After a £7 million refurbishment, the new central library facility will open in the middle of the town’s High Street at the end of the month and there will be plenty on offer no matter whether the reader is human or mutant. The reading hub boasts a children’s library with play structure designed by a celebrated Scottish artist, digital spaces with public computer terminals helps the centre reach a 21st century audience and an outdoor terrace for sunny days.”

• Shropshire – Library to be closed for two weeks – but no fine for late books – Shropshire Star. “The closure is required to put new shelving in. An update from the library said: “Due to the installation of new shelving funded by the Friends of Church Stretton Library …”
• Stoke on Trent – Stoke-on-Trent Libraries secure £88,000 from Know Your Neighbourhood Fund – Stoke on Trent Council. “The ambition is to set up the following volunteer-run groups that will be supported by library staff: A perinatal support group for new parents which runs from pregnancy right through to 12 months post-partum; A support group for fathers; A bereavement support group that will provide a safe space to meet other people who have experienced loss or who are facing the possibility of loss”
  • Little Dragons Club to take flight at Stoke-on-Trent Libraries – Stoke on Trent Council. “on signing up children will receive a Little Dragon Club passport, bookmark and a badge. Each time children attend one of Stoke-on-Trent’s free weekly Singing Bears, Bouncing Bears or Story Bears sessions or borrow books from the library they will be able to collect a special stamp in their passport.”. Tote bag includes as one prize. “For every 6 stamps a child collects in their passport they will receive a certificate congratulating them on their achievement and encouraging them to come to more sessions and borrow more books.”
• Suffolk – Suffolk Libraries PAWS-itivity dogs find their forever homes – Suffolk Libraries. “Suffolk Libraries’ biggest-ever fundraising campaign, PAWS-itivity, culminated in a successful fundraising auction at Trinity Park last month which raised over £26,000. Around 40 dog sculptures dubbed the ‘Library Labradors’ all featuring designs individually created by local artists were auctioned on 12 October. A few weeks later and with the dog sculptures all having found new homes, many can still be seen in public and enjoyed across the county. ”
  • Suffolk Libraries to hold ‘Power of Libraries’ conference for schools – Suffolk Libraries. “This free conference is open to all school staff with an interest in developing a culture of reading for pleasure. It is also an ideal opportunity for school librarians, English leads and leaders looking to invest in their school library and make connections with Suffolk Libraries.”
• Warwickshire – Warwickshire Libraries unveils service’s first electric-powered vehicle at celebration event for library volunteers – Warwickshire Council. “libraries service is becoming more sustainable with the introduction of a new van, powered entirely by electricity, for the Home Library Service fleet.”
• Westmorland and Furness – Over 200 angry protesters turn out to ‘save’ Ulverston library – The Mail. “Around 200 angry protesters waved banners and placards following its closure by Westmorland and Furness Council earlier this year over electrical issues. The protest was arranged by Labour Parliamentary candidate for Barrow and Furness Michelle Scrogham. She requested an electrical report Under the Freedom of Information Act and said many who viewed the report have struggled to see how the faults listed would amount to the £500,000 repair bill being discussed.”

Editorial

Yeah, it’s been a while since my last post. Back in late April I was walking the dogs before going to work, rushed as always, when I had a heart attack. This greatly annoyed my dogs as it meant their walk was cut short. Thankfully, I got back to the house before my wife left for work, meaning she was able to call 999, an ambulance came immediately, I was operated on in an hour and walking again the next day. Thank heavens for the NHS.

Recovery took way longer than I thought, with me coming back to work on phased return in late August’ me having to cancel a lot of my hobbies (pantomime being the main one) and the dogs getting even more annoyed at the lack of walking. Thankfully, I have recovered enough now to do Public Libraries News again. Obviously, I’ve missed half a year so it’s going to take a while to catch up on that. This post is just the last week. What I will do is just update for changes and ideas. If anyone would like to help, and thank you to one kind volunteer already, I can send you the daily Google Alerts – as few as you like – to check for me. But it will be done. Because this website, and public libraries generally, have a firm place in my heart, however dodgy that organ may prove to be in other ways.

Changes by local authority

• Devon – All 4 mobile libraries cut.
• Essex – New Loughton Library planned
• Hampshire – Cut in book fund expected.
• Glasgow – School Libraries Service closed.
• Hillingdon – Uxbridge Library to be moved into Civic Centre
• Lambeth – Brixton Library and Streatham Library being refurbished and improved.
• Neath Port Talbot – “Library of Things” opens in Sandfields Library.
• Peterborough – Stanground, Thorney and Eye libraries under threat.
• Shropshire – Whitchurch Library closed due to being unsafe.
• Southend – 2 libraries may close, 3 of the 4 remaining may have hours reduced.
• Suffolk – Consultation
• Wandsworth – Refurbished Wandsworth Town Centre Library opens
• Westmorland and Furness – Ulverston closed due to electrical problems, Roose Library still closed due to fire in May
• Wokingham – Twyford Library will move into former Old Polehampton Boys School building

National news

• British Library tech failure nine days after cyber-attack – National News. Disruption expected for several weeks. Librarians “are actively working with the National Cyber Security Centre and cyber security specialists to address the situation and to restore services”
• The Importance of Public Libraries: Environmentalism and Community – Student. “Undoubtedly, the best way to read in an environmentally conscious way is by getting a library card.”
• Inside UK’s ‘vital’ libraries providing ‘warm banks’ as cost of living bites and households struggle – Big Issue. “Gainsborough is one of the 93% of public libraries across England, Wales and Northern Ireland planning to offer free, heated space in the colder months, according to Libraries Connected. More than three quarters (79%) of those surveyed expect demand to match or exceed last year, when soaring energy costs prevented many people from switching the heating on.”
• The Reading Agency reveals inspiring line-up of authors for the life-changing Quick Reads programme – Reading Agency. “The Reading Agency has announced the six best-selling authors championing Quick Reads for 2024. They are Kia Abdullah, Malorie Blackman, Matt Cain, Kit de Waal, Jo Nesbo and Karen Swan.”

REVEAL: Reinforcing Ethics and Values for Effective Advocacy for Libraries – CILIPS. ” a review of the key concepts related to advocacy, ethics, and values, the project outputs also include the ten-video series below and other materials such as infographics to support the themes explored. All materials are made available free for use …”

• Why are libraries hiding gender-critical books? – Spiked. Free Speech Union writer says “Does being a gender-critical writer put you on par with Hitler? According to Calderdale Council in West Yorkshire, the answer is yes.”. Article says CILIP “is now pushing a form of soft censorship as part of its guidance to libraries across the country.” … “The last thing the public needs are more patronising attempts to police what we read.”

International news

• Global – UNESCO-IFLA advocate libraries in advancing inclusive Knowledge Societies and sustainable development at the WLIC 2023 – UNESCO. “Libraries are foundational to building inclusive Knowledge societies and preserving our shared heritage”
• Ireland – Clare Readers Festival: Celebrating Irish Authors and Writing in Clare Libraries this November – Clare Council.

• USA – ‘Book-banning crusade’ across the U.S.: What does it cost American taxpayers? – USA Today News. “”Your taxpayer dollars pay the salary of the employees who are spending some of their time, or much of their time, reading books that have been challenged by just a handful of activists in your district,” according to EveryLibrary” … “During the first half of the 2022-23 school year, PEN America found 1,477 instances of books being banned, affecting 874 unique titles, an increase of 28 percent compared to the prior six months”
• Hip-hop culture preserved in Atlanta libraries and museums in honor of 50th anniversary – WABE. “an expansive collaboration between archivists at libraries, museums, colleges and universities nationwide is taking place to document and present hip-hop history for the engagement of local communities”
• Libraries and Homelessness – Psychology Today. “It is not hyperbole to say that public libraries save lives, especially for people experiencing homelessness”
• Radon kits are now available for checkout at all Georgia public libraries – 11 Alive/Youtube.
• Tennessee officials are gunning for LGBTQ+ library books with sinister ordinance banning ‘public homosexuality’ – Pink News. All LGBTQ+ books potentially bannable under wide Tennessee censorship law.
• The Week in Libraries: November 10, 2023 – Publishers Weekly. USA digest. Book banners “lose big” in local public library ballots despite fierce and repeated attempts.

Local news by authority

• Aberdeen – Aberdeen libraries adventure-bound for Book Week Scotland celebrations – Aberdeen Council. Talks from authors and an artist.
• Bromley – ‘Wendy’s House’ pops up in Orpington Library in tribute to Wendy Cooling – BookSeller. “Orpington Library is to host the UK pilot of “Wendy’s House”, a project set up in memory of Bookstart founder and author Wendy Cooling. The library in Orpington, Bromley will feature pop-up tents where children can explore a selection of books – including some by Cooling herself.”
• Buckinghamshire – Aylesbury Vale libraries to be used as warm spaces again supporting people through winter – Bucks Herald. “Not only can you relax in comfort, anyone seeking a bit of company can meet with others and our staff are on hand with information and advice on a range of topics. The initiative worked so well last year that we are keen to ensure that everyone knows they are once again open to all.””
• Coventry – Coventry library awarded energy saving award – Planet Radio. “Coventry’s Central Library has been recognised in a national awards scheme for the way it is cutting its use of fossil fuels and preparing to go Net Zero. The Library has received an Energy Management Award following a two-year project to cut carbon use.” … “The changes are set to create an annual saving of £60,000 for the first year alone.” … “The Award in the EMA Energy Efficient Project of 2023 category was made by the Energy Managers Association”
• Devon – Children enjoyed Africa event at Crediton Library – Crediton Courier. “The children learnt about the culture and explored different objects through hands-on fun activities led by Kate Paiano from Tiny Travels.”
  • Devon County Council: Mobile library service set to be axed – Mid-Week Herald. “A petition to save the four mobile libraries had secured more than 9,000 signatures, including those of famous local authors Michael Morpurgo and Michael Rosen. But Councillor Roger Croad (Cons, Ivybridge), cabinet member for public health, communities and equality, said he had decided to make the “very sad decision” to recommend the closure of the service based on the decline in usage and its ongoing cost to the authority.” … see also Devon mobile libraries axed despite celebrity backing – BBC.
  • New drive to create bespoke community libraries – Devon Council. “The community libraries will be developed as an alternative to the current mobile library service which is faced with falling numbers of users and rising costs.”
• Dorset – Dorset Council works with library workforce as it enters latest phase to implement new strategy – Dorset Council. “The strategy was created in collaboration with customers, local communities, employees, businesses, partners, and councillors, with no proposed branch closures or reduction in overall operating hours. “
• Dudley – Ex-journalist to talk about debut novel at Dudley Library – Halesowen News. New local author.
• East Dunbartonshire – Can you find out ‘whodunnit’ at a Christmas night with a difference? – East Dunbartonshire Council. Murder mystery at Kirkintilloch Library by professional murder mystery company. ” all part of the new Library Lates initiative by East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust (EDLCT)”
• Essex – New Loughton Library receives planning permission – Essex Council. “Plans will be paid for by the development of 38 apartments above.” … “a brand-new library to replace the existing tired facility”
  • More than 370 winter warm hubs set for Essex – BBC. “74 of its libraries would remain open for people to access.”
• Glasgow – Glasgow Life: Schools to pay the price for educational library cut – Glasgow Life. School Libraries Service closed.
• Hampshire – Cuts to road maintenance and fewer books in libraries among proposals by Hampshire County Council – ITV. “it faces a £132 million deficit from April 2025” … “Proposals to reduce library stock levels, with a view to potentially reducing physical stock held in libraries “
• Hillingdon – Ambitious plans revealed to move library in Hillingdon to new location – Harrow Online. “plans for the transformation and relocation of Uxbridge Library to Hillingdon’s Civic Centre in spring 2024.” … “The proposed upgrades for the central library, set to be reviewed by the Cabinet in December, include new amenities such as study pods, hireable meeting spaces, and a dedicated area for the popular Tovertafel interactive tabletop projections. The plans also retain exhibition and event spaces, a learning center with public computers, laptop charging points, a dedicated children’s library, and an extensive book collection.”
• Inverclyde – Events across Inverclyde for Book Week Scotland – Inverclyde Council. Storyteller, creating outdoor adventure comic, making prints from sweet wrappers, free Book Trust book.
  • Inverclyde Libraries recognised for commitment to local community – Inverclyde Council. “Inverclyde Libraries was praised for undertaking a strong consultation and engagement process which led to a highly impressive and comprehensive set of partnerships and libraries services.”
• Kirklees – Interactive sensory table support library users with dementia – Kirklees C”ouncil. Friends of Birstall Library allows for a “Mobii table, also known as the “Magic table”, is a motion activated projection system that projects pictures and images on the to table.”
• Lambeth – Lambeth: Library upgrades and improvements planned – Lambeth Council. “Brixton Library and Streatham Library are undergoing refurbishment and improvement work as part of Lambeth Council’s commitment to invest in our public libraries which have more than a million visits each year.”
• Leeds – Timeless tales and mythical dragons take library visitors on a storybook adventure – Leeds Council. “Fantasy: Realms of Imagination is inspired by a current exhibition also being held at the British Library and will feature a programme of events and activities through the exhibition.”
  • Rawdon Community Library celebrates ten years of independence – Wharfedale Observer. “In 2011, the library was earmarked for closure by Leeds City Council, along with 11 other libraries run by the local authority. Following a successful campaign to take over the running of the facility, Rawdon re-opened as a community library run by volunteers.”
• Moray – Elgin library set to host popular authors John D Burns and Eleanor Thom – Northern Scot. ““Moray libraries have hosted many acclaimed authors of both fiction and non-fiction writings in the past, including Ian Rankin, Val McDermid, and Kirsty Wark, Mairi Hedderwick, and Julia Donaldson. I hope we’ll see a big crowd of literary fans to welcome John and Eleanor to Elgin.””
• Neath Port Talbot – New ‘Library of Things’ scheme helps residents to save money and reduce waste – Neath Port Talbot Council. “The first ‘Library of Things’ scheme in Neath Port Talbot has officially opened at Sandfields Library, offering residents a chance to save money and reduce waste.” … “Popular items that are useful for occasional DIY projects and family events are available including a drill, wheelbarrow, jet wash, hose pipe, electric screwdriver, carpet cleaning machine, a tent and a gazebo.”
• North Ayrshire – North Ayrshire Libraries team award for work to tackle drug use – Ardossan Herald. “The project, co-designed with addiction specialists to repurpose library spaces, upskill and train library staff, and promote library services to new customers, was described as “brave, empathetic and visionary”.”
• North Somerset – North Somerset: Community ‘living rooms’ aim to keep residents warm – BBC.
• North Yorkshire – Libraries across North Yorkshire host self care week – Press. Various groups and events, including tie-ins with NHS. “”Public libraries are gateways to good health and wellbeing, and Self-Care Week gives libraries the opportunity to promote efficient use of the NHS by signposting people to reliable health information.”
  • Libraries Minister visits newly refurbished Scarborough Library – Gazette and Herald. “Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay, Minister for Arts and Heritage at the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, visited Scarborough Library to see the result of this year’s major refurbishment. The library reopened in May following a £450,000 improvement scheme, which has seen the building reconfigured to create a brighter, more attractive space.”
  • Newly refurbished Scarborough Library has windows smashed – BBC. “More than £450,000 was spent on renovations to the Grade II listed Scarborough Library. On Sunday night, a number of windows were smashed “causing thousands of pounds in repairs”, North Yorkshire Council said. Police said an 18-year-old man from the local area had been arrested and released under investigation.”
• Northern Ireland – Temporary closure of Coalisland Library announced for essential maintenance – Yahoo News.
• Nottingham – Council exploring possibility of merging some libraries and leisure centres to save money – Notts TV. “campaign to save the Basford, Aspley and Radford-Lenton Libraries from closure in January 2022, when the council planned to put them to the axe to set a balanced budget.”
• Peterborough – Libraries and community centres in Peterborough set to be sold off – Yahoo News. Stanground, Thorney and Eye libraries under threat.
• Shropshire – Hunt goes on for new premises for Shropshire library shut for nearly two months – Shropshire Star. “The library in Whitchurch Civic Centre has been closed since September following the discovery of RAAC – reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete – roof beams in the building. Shropshire Council says its teams are working jointly to identify alternative sites for the library.”
• Southampton – Southampton City Council launches Warm Welcome Initiative for 2023 – Southampton Council. “libraries will be running between 30-50 free activities each week across the city. Activities will vary from arts and crafts, reading and games clubs, to IT support sessions. There will also be an opportunity to enjoy a free hot drink and snack.” … “Homework Help returns for 2023, where volunteer tutors from Student Hub (Southampton Hub) will be available to help children with homework queries.”
• Southend – Southend councillor launches save Kent Elms Library campaign – Echo News. “Council’s plan to tackle a £14million budget deficit – which could rise to almost £30,000 in coming years – two of the city’s libraries could close to save £200,000.”
• St Helens – Libraries axe is sad loss of lifeline for residents – St Helens Star / Letters. Letter disparaging cuts.
• Stirling – Businessman who helped fund £1million library for Scottish village – Herald. “Mr Graham’s love of his village led him to offer a large donation to Strathblane Community Development Trust to fund a badly-needed new local library. After three years of hard work, he proudly opened the Thomas Graham Community Library last April, named in memory of his great-great-uncle who had been a pioneering British chemist in the mid-1800s.”
• Suffolk – What do you want from Suffolk’s Libraries service in future? – East Anglian Daily Times. “The contract with our current provider ends in May 2025 and since that contract began, the needs of local people have changed. We are therefore taking this opportunity to seek views from the public about what is important to them, ahead of awarding the new contract. ” … “The value of the new contract will be circa £80m over 12 years and this means that we are required to undertake a competitive procurement process. ”
  • Meet Suffolk Libraries’ first ever Environmentalist in Residence – Suffolk Libraries. “Suffolk Libraries’ unique Environmentalist in Residence programme invites dedicated environmentalists to share their expertise, inspiration and love for our planet with library patrons of all ages. The programme is inspired by Toronto Public Library’s Environmentalist in Residence project and will bring passionate eco-advocates to the heart of the community.”
• Tameside – Tameside libraries provide safe, welcome spaces for residents – Quest Media. “Tameside’s eight libraries offer open spaces to people who walk through their doors. “
• Walsall – New library and nature centre unveiled – Express and Star. “The Greenway Centre has opened in the Ryecroft Community Hub in Blakenall with the purpose of promoting more active lifestyles, reading and climate action.” … “Funding for the initiative came from two government grants worth almost £6,000, topped up with £1,400 raised through crowdfunding.”
• Wandsworth – One week countdown to bigger and better Wandsworth Town Centre Library opening its doors – Wandsworth Council. “new-look, bigger and better Wandsworth town centre library” … “It will stock more than 40,000 books and a separate and well-resourced children’s library with its own separate toilets and baby changing area” … ” using heat pump technology with comprehensive insulation and other energy saving measures like double glazed windows “
• Warwickshire – Hublet help on offer at Warwickshire libraries – Leamington Observer. “free digital tablet devices available in most Warwickshire libraries for e-reading. They are now available to use at Leamington, Nuneaton, Rugby, Warwick, Kenilworth, Southam and Stratford libraries, and allow users to enjoy eMagazines, eNewspapers, eBooks, and other online eResources without the need to have or bring their own digital devices to the library.”
• Westmorland and Furness – Council issues update on Roose and Ulverston libraries – The Mail. “In regards to Ulverston Library, the investigations have confirmed that the issues with the electrics at the library building are ‘extensive.'” … “‘temporary alternative provision’ for Roose Library while the current building is out of action following the extensive fire in May this year.”
• Wokingham – New Twyford library begins to take shape in historic boys school – Bracknell News. Twyford Library will move into “former Old Polehampton Boys School building” next year.
• Worcestershire – Community Builder praises impact of Libraries Unlocked – Worcestershire Council. “Thanks to Libraries Unlocked, which has extended the opening hours at Droitwich Library, the CVS have been able to host volunteer events at the library to engage the wider community and offer support to Ukrainians living in the area.”. Staffless libraries: “Feedback from customers has revealed that the service is particularly popular with working people and working parents, people who prefer to use the library at quieter times and people looking to spend longer periods of time in the library. “