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Thanks, John, Many thanks for alerting us to this. But you seem to have overlooked one thing: the 1964 Act is hopelessly vague. The judge in the Brent case showed how the Act lacks definitions and fails to deal with modern situations. But how different would things be if the PL Standards still applied? Where was the outcry when they were axed? How many librarians shouted out? Ralph Date: Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:13:53 +0100 From: [log in to unmask] Subject: THE GUARDIAN | Library closures: what can local people do? : 18th October To: [log in to unmask] THE GUARDIAN Library closures: what can local people do? There are calls from the Local Government Association to replace the act. Chris White, chair of its culture, tourism and sport board, describes it as "badly outdated". He says: "Councillors must be free to modernise library services without fear of central government interference on the back of legislation drawn up half a century ago before the arrival of the internet and digital media." http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/oct/18/library-closures-local-people?newsfeed=true I’m disappointed with Cllr White. Is someone looking for a way out? Delaying tactics? Let’s follow this Act first before we start writing another one! No need for much more than this from the ’64 Act …. … it shall be the duty of the Secretary of State to superintend, and promote the improvement of, the public library service provided by local authorities … to secure the proper discharge of the functions in relation to libraries conferred on them as library authorities … comprehensive and efficient … for all desiring to make use thereof …employ such officers … such buildings and equipment …books and other materials …do such other things as may be requisite … people whose residence, place of work, education … general requirements and any special requirements of both adults and children .. providing advice … bibliographical and other information … the Secretary of State … failed … opinion (see s/he must have an opinion) that an investigation should be made … may make an order … the functions … shall be transferred to the Secretary of State (!) … It’s not just about cuts and closures; it’s about the leadership that was articulately promised before the election. Where is it? John John Dolan OBE 205 Hole Lane Birmingham B31 2DA UK E. [log in to unmask] Tw. @johnrdolan T. 0121 476 4258 M. 07508 204200