There will a National Libraries day 0n 4 February 2012. Find out more
The Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) launched a review of statutory duties placed on local government, three of these apply to public library services.
Find out more about the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964 and what's happening with the review
We have written an open letter to Ed Vaizey, Minister responsible for libraries, urging him to make clear to the DCLG that there is a continuing need for public libraries' legal protection.
Ed Vaizey confirmed at an MPs debate on 28 February 2011 that while volunteers contribute to the public library service, they do not replace professional library staff. He also confirmed that there are no plans to repeal the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964. Mr Vaizey did not address the issue of community managed libraries.
Brian Hall, President of CILIP, commented: "We hope the message gets through to all politicians and journalists loud and clear: public libraries are a statutory service."
On 21 February 2011, CILIP sent an open letter to the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, correcting his wrongly held belief that councils are not obliged to have libraries. Annie Mauger replied:
"Sorry Boris, but this is just plain wrong. Under the Public Libraries and Museums Act (1964) local authorities are required by statute to provide a public library service which is comprehensive and efficient, and available to all who wish to use it."
CILIP isssued a statement on 5 February 2011 on the position of the public library service in England. The statement considers the current situation, examines community managed libraries and other proposals and puts forward actiion required by the Secretary of State for Culture.
Read the full statement
Save our Libraries Day
A day of action on 5 February 2011
CILIP supports Save our libraries day, a day of action to bring greater attention to the cuts and closures facing many public libraries. Everyone who cares about libraries should use their library on the 5th February and encourage as many others as possible to get involved.
Voices for the Library is a place on the web for everyone who loves libraries to share their stories and experiences of the value of public libraries. It includes information about why public librarians are important and lists details of local campaigns against public library closures.
Voices for the Library has been endorsed by CILIP.
- What makes a good library service?
CILIP has developed professional guidelines on what makes a good library service (in England) for portfolio holders in local councils.
The Guidelines define what we mean by a good library service and provide a checklist by which portfolio holders can assess their own service.
CILIP published the guidelines in October 2009 and revised them in December 2010. They have been sent to all Heads of Library Services in England.
Read the CILIP Guidelines and find out more