It’s always assumed, mistakenly, that borrowing is *only* the result of demand. Needs are met, creating usage, by priorities, strategies, marketing and evaluation.

 

I wrote to BBC Today after this morning’s broadcast:

 

“Children’s use of libraries has grown for three reasons

-          Library managers have focussed on children’s reading [reducing spend elsewhere and in the midst of annual cuts over many years]

-          more and better writing for children and young adults in the UK

-          national promotional programmes coordinated by libraries with charitable partners

 

Adult library services have focussed on needs – adult literacy and related skills, information services and digital innovation [like Enquire the 24/7 enquiry service] as well as leisure reading. Visits to services and activities, walk-in and virtual, is the better measure, not just the number of book loans.

 

What’s gone – for both modernisation, economy and better value – is Government leadership, guidance and standards with its modest but effective investment in development.

 

As well as local authority’s duty to provide “comprehensive and efficient” services for communities, the Secretary of State is required by law to “superintend and promote” public libraries. This is not happening.

 

Public libraries do play a key part in social and economic improvement when geared to needs. They should be a cornerstone of any social/economic strategy such as Big Society – access, involvement, skill, ownership. There is no other community-based institution providing the library’s place and resource.

 

At present they are in danger of closing or being deliberately and mischievously designed to stereotype at the weak end of cultural life.”

 

 

 

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