CILIP has written to Sir Chris Bryant, detailing how CILIP can support the new government’s key missions.

Chief Executive Louis Coiffait-Gunn reached out to the MP after he was announced as heading up responsibility for public libraries. Sir Chris holds a dual role in Government, as Minister of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Sir Chris’ briefs cover public libraries, creative industries, and digital inclusion – all areas where CILIP and its members can provide positive support to deliver improved outcomes. In his welcome letter, Louis points out that Sir Chris is not unfamiliar with the plight of public libraries struggling for proper funding.

”As I’m sure you will recall,” Louis points out, “almost 20 years ago you were a member of the House of Commons Culture, Media, and Sport Committee when it examined the state of Public Libraries in 2004-05. Unfortunately, many of the key findings of this inquiry are still relevant today and we firmly believe that only through sustained support and investment in knowledge managers, information professionals, and librarians—one of our most trusted professions—will we be able to unlock the full potential of services in the creative learning, research, and business sectors. As the libraries minister, you have the opportunity to interpret your superintendence and development responsibilities in far more ambitious ways than your recent predecessors.”

As with CILIP’s other welcome letters to ministers, the aim is to develop meaningful relationships with ministers and to highlight how CILIP and its members can help this government achieve positive change for everyone. 

Read full letter