“Libraries serve a manifold role. They provide books, periodicals, digital resources — information! — curated and stewarded by experts.” – Oliver Roder, writing for the Financial Times

Amy Staniforth, Relationship Manager for CILIP Cymru Wales represented librarians and public libraries at the Welsh Senedd this month, to provide the Local Government and Housing Committee with evidence on the importance and impact of public libraries in Wales.

During the Local Government and Housing Committee, 4th May 2023, Amy highlighted the importance of a quality-based approach to strategy and funding built on professional standards, and solid data and reporting.

Along with Nicola Pitman, Chair of the Society of Chief Librarians, Amy argued that the new Welsh Library Public Standards (WPLS) framework will need to measure quality not just quantity of service.

The seventh framework should set standards based on different professional criteria that reflect the multi-faceted role libraries play in their local communities, and support staff to deliver these services.

Public libraries develop literacy and digital skills, nourish the Welsh language via collections and activities. They also provide a social care space that challenges loneliness, deliver quality healthcare information, and provide free warm spaces.

Local authorities should be incentivised by the WPLS and when library services and staff are cut, there should be provision for action to be taken by the Welsh Government to ensure that statutory rights to an equitable and efficient service can continue to be met.

After giving evidence at the Senedd, Amy said “Libraries provide a great opportunity for professional and career development through apprenticeships and the many different roles they offer.”

“What is needed is a national, joined-up approach to making libraries as effective as possible in a time of continued cuts across the board.”

Read CILIP's full recommendations to the Senedd

Video of the committee hearing

Read the committee hearing transcript