Support programme for libraries is welcome, says ALCS

ALCS has today welcomed the announcement of a support programme for public libraries.

The programme will be led by the Museums Libraries and Archive Council and the Local Government Association Group who will use their knowledge and expertise to support councils as they adapt to the current economic climate.

ALCS Deputy Chief Executive Barbara Hayes said:

“Access to books, educational materials, entertainment and to the internet are vital community services provided by our public libraries. In these tough economic times it is essential that we work together to ensure their future.”

A radical rethink on how library services are delivered is wanted by the Government and options could include: shared services; merging functions; staffing across authorities; support from volunteers and the use of other community buildings.

The announcement was made by Culture Minister Ed Vaizey while speaking at the Remodelling Libraries Conference.

The programme will initially work with around 10 library authorities and lessons learned will then be shared with the wider public library network. The Minister reinforced the Government’s commitment to a high quality library service.

New governance models and greater cooperation across library authority boundaries are already emerging, such as the London Library Change Programme, which estimates potential savings of £20 million simply through sharing best practice. The programme will not be a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach and will be based on the principle that local services know their communities best.

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