MPs from all parties are being urged to show their support for public library services in a Westminster Hall Debate in the House of Parliament on Wednesday 14 May. The debate has been tabled by Jonathan Davies MP, who will call for "a joined-up strategy that invests in libraries as platforms for opportunity, connection and growth".

The debate follows growing concern from across Parliament and the library sector that without coordinated action, the UK risks losing a vital national resource. A similar House of Lords debate in September 2024 was so oversubscribed that contributions were limited to just one minute.

Taking place on Wednesday 14 May at 9:30am, the debate follows growing concern from across Parliament and the library sector that without coordinated action, the UK risks losing a vital national resource. A similar House of Lords debate in September 2024 was so oversubscribed that contributions were limited to just one minute.

The debate is seen as a key opportunity to press the government for a long-term plan that unlocks the full potential of libraries in delivering national and local priorities, from digital inclusion and economic growth to early years development and public health.

CILIP wants to encourage MPs from across political spectrum to participate in this debate and has asked members and its wider community to email their local MP and encourage them to attend and speak at the debate. MPs prioritise emails from their constituents, so you may also want to get in touch with your MP and encourage them to get involved.

You can find email address for your MP’s by using this simple online tool at Find Your MP.

Jonathan Davies MP said: “Public libraries are one of the UK’s most trusted and impactful public services — but they are too often overlooked in national policymaking. I’ve tabled this debate because I believe we urgently need a joined-up strategy that invests in libraries as platforms for opportunity, connection and growth. If we are serious about building stronger communities and levelling up, we must treat libraries as the strategic infrastructure they are.”

Louis Coiffait-Gunn, CEO at CILIP said: “This is a crucial opportunity to raise awareness in Parliament of the urgent need for stronger leadership, strategic investment, and cross-government support for our vital library services. With public libraries under growing pressure, this debate could be a turning point in securing their future.”

Watch the debate here from 9.30am on Wednesday 14 May.