Statement on the position of the public library service in England

The statement includes:

• The current situation and concern about the level and extent of proposals which could add up to the closure of up to 20% of library service points and a probable 4-6,000 reduction in the number of staff
• Information on community managed libraries and other proposals
• Actions required by Government and what CILIP will continue to do
• Conclusion Libraries are a national service as well as a local facility and are part of our heritage. Refocused and energised, public libraries will continue to be a dynamic and vibrant part of society.

The Secretary of State for Culture must:

• intervene where proposed cuts are disproportionate or where a local authority will fail to comply with the 1964 Public Libraries & Museums Act.
• provide guidance on best practice for community managed  libraries. 
• make it clear to local authorities that community managed libraries must not charge for book borrowing  if they are to be regarded as part of an authority's provision to meet its statutory obligation to provide a 'comprehensive and efficient' service.
• ensure the Arts Council (England) is able to scrutinise local authorities' library plans and advise the Minister when there are problems.

CILIP will:

• continue to monitor local authorities' proposals for cuts, and when disproportionate make representations to the authority or refer to the DCMS.
• engage in the public debate about the value of libraries and work to increase levels of awareness amongst national and local politicians about the threats to public library services. 
• continue to work with influential people and organisations - such as authors, publishers, campaigners, celebrities and unions - to make the case for public libraries. 

 Read the full statement

Media release