Media centre
Vision for the future of public libraries
20 Jun 2008
Lynn Brown MP, Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Libraries and Literacy, has given a speech on her personal view on the future of libraries.
Brown spoke last week at the joint conference of CILIP’s Branch and Mobile Libraries Group and Public Libraries Group. The transcript of her speech is published on the National Literacy Trust (NLT) website. Read Lynn Brown’s speech in full
The NLT believes a strong library service is essential in building a reading culture and a literate nation. From the 15 September 2008, the NLT will hold the secretariat for the All Party Parliamentary Group on Libraries and Literacy.
Brown’s speech talks about the key role libraries should play in integrating and supporting local communities. However, she expresses her concerns about current and future library services. While recognising the potential of community ownership of public library assets and the need for a strong national body, she questions the suitability of the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA). She says:
I have become convinced that the basis of a thriving library service is a service that evolves organically via local involvement and ownership. However, that does not obviate the need for strategic leadership of the sector, but how is this best provided?
I have always believed that although the grouping of functions has a superficial attraction, museums and libraries in particular have different professional cultures and delivery mechanisms. To its credit, MLA has expended much energy and investment in promoting joint working and minimising the differences between sectors . . . but the added value experienced by the service user and service provider, I think, is questionable.
My own experience . . . leads me to think that these issues could be addressed by a focused National Library Development Agency that does not restrain local initiative or dilute local flavour.”
ends.
For more information please contact Fiona Lewis at the National Literacy Trust on 020 7820 6253 or email fiona.lewis@literacytrust.org.uk
For interviews with Lynn Brown MP please contact David or Tom on 020 7219 6999.
Notes to Editors:
1. The All Party Parliamentary Group on Libraries and Literacy
The Libraries and Literacy Group exists “to highlight the work and importance of libraries, both public and private.”
2. National Literacy Trust
The National Literacy Trust is an independent charity that changes lives through literacy. It links home, school and the wider community to inspire learners and create opportunities for everyone. www.literacytrust.org.uk
The National Literacy Trust is a registered charity in England and Wales, no. 1116260, and a company limited by guarantee, no. 5836486, Registered office: 68 South Lambeth Road, London SW8 1RL
3. Branch and Mobile Libraries Group and Public Libraries Group
The BMLG and the PLG are special interest groups of CILIP, the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals. CILIP is the leading professional body for librarians, information specialists and knowledge managers.
www.cilip.org.uk
4. Museums, Libraries and Archives Council
MLA is the lead strategic agency for museums, libraries and archives. It is part of the wider MLA Partnership, working with the nine regional agencies.
www.mla.gov.uk
5. The 2008 National Year of Reading
The 2008 National Year of Reading is a year-long celebration of reading, in all its forms. It will help to build a greater national passion for reading – for children, families and adult learners alike. The Year will encourage people to read in businesses, homes, and communities around the country, providing new opportunities to read and helping people to access help and support through schools and libraries. The 2008 National Year of Reading is being managed by the National Literacy Trust and lead partner The Reading Agency. www.yearofreading.org.uk
