Library Alliance Launched to mark 175th Anniversary

CILIP is a key partner in a new Library Alliance that has been launched at an event marking the 175th anniversary of the Public Libraries Act and to help fight for a sustainable future for libraries.

The alliance brings together a range of organisations who will work together to advocate for library services, creating a strong foundation for development at all levels across the sector. Launched at the event where Libraries Minister Baroness Twycross gave a speech celebrating 175 years of the Public Libraries Act, the alliance will build on three key aims – Change How We Work; Support Better Policy Making; and Speak With One Voice. Activity will come under the umbrella of Libraries Through Life, recognising the impact and value that libraries bring to people at all stages of life.

CILIP Chief Executive Louis Coiffait Gunn said: "The Libraries Alliance has come from discussions among key bodies for all different types of libraries and librarians. Its launch was timed at the point we came together to celebrate 175 years since the first public libraries Act. While this successful radical innovation is a milestone for all those in the wider UK library sector, it is also a reminder of the continuous need for our sector to keep evolving, meeting the changing needs of society.

"The Alliance brings together public, academic, school, independent and many other types of libraries to champion the sector's positive impact, the need for sustainable long-term investment, and to push for ambitious political leadership to unleash the sector's future potential.

"CILIP is proud to be part of this coalition, helping to connect and empower all types of library professionals to work together for the public good, and to make a coordinated and evidence-backed case for greater support for that vital work.

"As we celebrate the enduring values of the library movement – including free access to knowledge, culture and lifelong learning – we recognise the urgent need to equip our institutions, professionals, and users with new skills to thrive in a changing world."

Alliance partners will ensure skills are at the heart of thriving services, supporting a workforce who are fully equipped to meet challenges, capitalise on opportunities and shape a future where libraries support communities and individuals.

Speaking at the event at Manchester Central Library, Baroness Twycross said: "In an age of mis- and dis-information, the principle of free access to information enshrined in the Public Libraries Act 1850 remains a core principle now. We are witnessing a moment in history where the ability to distinguish truth from lie is critically essential.

"The public library is arguably the purest expression of democracy in action—the idea that knowledge should be freely available to all citizens, regardless of their background or ability to pay."

The alliance is calling for a joined-up approach to policymaking by government departments, as well as looking for long-term funding settlements to help services to plan with more certainty.

The broad nature of the alliance will also help create collaborative services that make best use of resources and innovative thinking from all sectors. Improved data and shared evidence will power decision-making that will create better user experiences and engagement.

Isobel Hunter MBE, chief executive of Libraries Connected, said: "We warmly welcome the Minister's commitment to the sector and look forward to working with her to shape an ambitious vision for libraries. As we celebrate 175 years of public libraries, our focus must be on ensuring their resilience for generations to come. While libraries face many challenges, they continue to enrich and improve lives at every stage – with leadership, investment and partnership, we have a unique opportunity to harness their power."