Author: Elizabeth Ash

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

BBC News : 4th April
The tiny library payment office authors fought to save
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has finally announced the British Library will take over the service but keep the Stockton office.  The next problem, Mr Parker says, is public library closures and the move towards community-run libraries.  The legislation requires data to be collected from councils and voluntary groups do not qualify.  Having already started fighting for libraries to remain open, authors might now find who runs them is just as significant a struggle if they want their money
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-tees-22001897

Information Daily : 3rd April
Voluntary workers disillusioned by the Big Society
One 82-year-old volunteer wrote: “The council has to make cuts. So the Chief Executive talks in terms of closing the libraries, removing school crossing patrols etc. No amount of voluntary effort will address such issues. It is a form of political blackmail.”
http://www.theinformationdaily.com/2013/04/03/embargoed-voluntary-workers-disillusioned-by-the-big-society

BBC News : 4th April
Wales | Funding boost of £2m for museums and public libraries
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-22016972

THE BOOKSELLER : 4th April
Welsh libraries to receive £1m boost
http://www.thebookseller.com/news/welsh-libraries-receive-%C2%A31m-boost.html

Southport Visitor : 4th April
Sefton | Library opens to the approval of members 
http://www.southportvisiter.co.uk/southport-news/southport-southport-news/2013/04/04/library-opens-to-the-approval-of-members-101022-33110731/

The Echo : 4th April
Southend | Two-pronged campaign launched to save Leigh library
http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/local_news/10328545.Two_pronged_campaign_launched_to_save_Leigh_library/?ref=mmsp

The Star : 4th April
Heated debate on future of Sheffield libraries 
Ten thousand people who signed a petition against Sheffield library closures were told yesterday: “It’s the Government’s fault.”  Labour councillors ‘noted’ the swell of concerns but said they had no alternative but to save £1.6 million from the £6.8m library budget as part of £50m cuts in the coming year.   Fourteen of 27 community libraries are at risk of closure unless third parties run them instead.
http://www.thestar.co.uk/news/heated-debate-on-future-of-sheffield-libraries-1-5552311

The Star : 4th April
Opinion: What future for libraries? 
Today, our reading habits have been transformed by the availability of cheap books. We simply don’t need libraries like we used to.
http://www.thestar.co.uk/community/opinion-what-future-for-libraries-1-5551989

Ham & High : 4th April
Community libraries in Primrose Hill, Belsize Park and Hampstead hail success of first year
“This is not a model that can be replicated anywhere else and it’s not something for people to say others should follow. It’s quite unique to be able to raise so much from crowd funding, and it’s not something you could do in less affluent areas.”
http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/news/community_libraries_in_primrose_hill_belsize_park_and_hampstead_hail_success_of_first_year_1_2000906

West Sussex County Times : 4th April
Libraries set to provide free wi-fi 
Readers using West Sussex libraries are getting free internet access on their own laptops, tablets and smartphones after plans to install wi-fi were given the go ahead.  The state-of-the-art system is being fitted in every branch during the next few months.
http://www.wscountytimes.co.uk/news/local/libraries-set-to-provide-free-wi-fi-1-4966045

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

The Star : 1st April
Letter | Time to charge for borrowing books? 
http://www.thestar.co.uk/community/letters/time-to-charge-for-borrowing-books-1-5541443

THE GUARDIAN : 2nd April
Are social enterprises the future for libraries?
http://socialenterprise.guardian.co.uk/social-enterprise-network/2013/apr/02/social-enterprises-libraries

Socialist Worker : 2nd April
Manchester |A story of services threatened by the axe
http://www.socialistworker.co.uk/art.php?id=31027

THE GUARDIAN : 2nd April
Are social enterprises the future for libraries?
http://socialenterprise.guardian.co.uk/social-enterprise-network/2013/apr/02/social-enterprises-libraries

THE BOOKSELLER : 2nd April
Petition opposes Sheffield library cuts
http://www.thebookseller.com/news/petition-opposes-sheffield-library-cuts.html

Lancashire Evening Post : 2nd April
Library users slam IT system 
A former insurance worker, Mr Dyson said he was now unemployed due to health reasons, and needed to use the computers to register with Universal Jobmatch online to receive his Jobseeker’s Allowance. He said: “If you go to the Jobcentre and say ‘I couldn’t get on the computers at the library’ they will say it’s no excuse.
http://www.lep.co.uk/news/library-users-slam-it-system-1-5541559

Society of Authors : 2nd April
Society of Authors’ response to the Sieghart Independent Review of E-Lending in Public Libraries 
http://www.societyofauthors.org/soa-news/society-authors’-response-sieghart-independent-review-e-lending-public-libraries

Society of Authors : 2nd April
Society of Authors’ response to the DCMS planned transfer of PLR functions
http://www.societyofauthors.org/soa-news/society-authors’-response-dcms-planned-transfer-plr-functions

BBC News : 2nd April
Top Scots websites among UK domains catalogued by libraries
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-22003372

Bournemouth Echo : 2nd April
We’ll make libraries fit for the 21st century, pledge councillors
A comprehensive review of the town’s libraries service has recommended the retention of all 12 libraries, along with the home library service.  Cabinet members unanimously agreed the proposals, which will see £1.7million of savings and extra income made over the next seven years.
http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/10326633.We_ll_make_libraries_fit_for_the_21st_century__pledge_councillors/

This Is Hull & East Riding : 2nd April
Councillor should fight to keep library open
Councillor Terry Geraghty, portfolio holder for culture and leisure, Hull City Council, admonishes a LibDem councillor re. Libraries.
http://www.thisishullandeastriding.co.uk/Councillor-fight-library-open/story-18563546-detail/story.html#axzz2PKFU6S2f

Local.Gov.co.uk  : 3rd April
Councils criticised for making staff sign ‘gagging orders’
http://www.localgov.co.uk/index.cfm?method=news.detail&id=109351#.UVwQcuN-1ok.twitter

Lancashire Evening Post : 3rd April
Town’s old library building turns over a new leaf 
A book exchange has been opened in a former library building.
http://www.lep.co.uk/community/town-s-old-library-building-turns-over-a-new-leaf-1-5542284

Southend Standard : 3rd April
Put post offices in our libraries
A Councillor has called for post offices to be created at Basildon and Laindon libraries if the two branches cannot be saved.
http://www.southendstandard.co.uk/news/echo/10325991.Put_post_offices_in_our_libraries/?ref=nt

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

There was no digest yesterday.

Sheffield Telegraph : 31st March
10,000-name petition triggers Debate on city libraries
A debate will be held next week on the future of Sheffield libraries after a petition with more than 10,000 names was handed in, objecting to any closures.
http://www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.uk/lifestyle/10-000-name-petition-triggers-debate-on-city-libraries-1-5538520

Huddersfield Examiner : 30th March
Kirklees | Results of library review in Golcar, Marsden and Slaithwaite being considered
http://www.examiner.co.uk/news/local-west-yorkshire-news/2013/03/30/results-of-library-review-in-golcar-marsden-and-slaithwaite-being-considered-86081-33086240/

Broken Barnet Blogspot : 31st March
Where the bodies are buried: Robert Rams and Church End library 
http://wwwbrokenbarnet.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/where-bodies-are-buried-robert-rams-and.html

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Express & Star : 29th March
Up to 49 jobs at risk in Wolverhampton libraries shake-up
http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2013/03/29/up-to-49-jobs-at-risk-in-wolverhampton-libraries-shake-up/

http://www.thethoughtfox.co.uk/?p=7608

Good Library Guide : 29th March
A miserable report about ebooks from William Sieghart
http://www.goodlibraryguide.com/blog/archives/2013/03/a_miserable_rep.html

Rotherham Advertiser : 29th March
Villages lose mobile library runs in Rotherham cut-backs
The changes — combined with the closure of Kimberworth Park library — will save £180,666.
http://www.rotherhamadvertiser.co.uk/news/93992/villages-lose-mobile-library-runs-in-rotherham-cut-backs.aspx

The Star : 29th March
Letter | Why our libraries are so important
I wish to take issue with Colin Drury over his column in The Star last week relating to our city libraries and his apparent disregard for them.  I live in Totley on the council estate, (yes, we do have a council estate here, contrary to popular belief). Our library is the heart of our community, we simply have nothing else.
http://www.thestar.co.uk/community/letters/why-our-libraries-are-so-important-1-5539658

The Echo : 29th March
Essex | Shock proposals emerge to move Hadleigh Library for £60million town centre revamp
http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/10317665.Shock_proposals_emerge_to_move_Hadleigh_Library_for___60million_town_centre_revamp/

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Fabian Society : 28th March
Dan Jarvis MP | How do you value a library?
http://www.fabians.org.uk/how-do-you-value-a-library/

Public Libraries News : 27th March
Public Library E-Lending Review published
Editorial, plus key recommendations and responses.
http://www.publiclibrariesnews.com/2013/03/public-library-e-lending-review-published.html

Voices for the Library : 28th March
Statement on the Sieghart e-lending review
http://www.voicesforthelibrary.org.uk/wordpress/?p=2981

Good E-Reader : 28th March
UK Government Releases New Report on Library eBook Lending
http://goodereader.com/blog/e-book-news/uk-government-releases-new-report-on-library-ebook-lending/

This Is Grimsby : 28th March
Library service for schools in North East Lincolnshire is to close down

http://www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk/Library-service-schools-North-East-Lincolnshire/story-18545089-detail/story.html#axzz2Oqdaq6bE

Camden New Journal : 29th March
The death of a library
The Regent’s Park branch library closes it doors this week after nearly 50 years, prompting users to accuse the Town Hall of cutting a vital service in an area that relies heavily on the branch for books, computer services and as a place to meet.
http://www.camdennewjournal.com/news/2013/mar/death-library

Camden New Journal : 28th March
Town Hall faces criticism over books ‘giveaway’ from axed library
http://www.camdennewjournal.com/news/2013/mar/town-hall-faces-criticism-over-books-giveaway-axed-library

South Wales Argus : 28th March
Letter | Hands off our city libraries
http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/letters/10321853.Hands_off_our_city_libraries/

Barnet & Whetstone Press : 28th March
Concerns over Finchley library sell-off
http://www.barnet-today.co.uk/news.cfm?id=10305&headline=Concerns over Finchley library sell-off

BBC News : 27th March
Hull Anlaby Park library given two month reprieve
The closure of a Hull library has been delayed for two months for campaigners to come up with a plan to save it.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-humber-21955092

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Co-operative News : 27th March
How co-operatives can help save our community libraries
http://www.thenews.coop/article/how-co-operatives-can-help-save-our-community-libraries

DCMS : 27th March
Press Release | Review of E-Lending Published
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/review-of-e-lending-published

SCL : 27th March
Society of Chief Librarians Welcomes Government’s E-Lending Review Recommendations
http://www.goscl.com/society-of-chief-librarians-welcomes-governments-e-lending-review-recommendations/

Society of Authors : 27th March
Library lending of ebooks
http://www.societyofauthors.org/soa-news/library-lending-ebooks

THE BOOKSELLER : 27th March
Sieghart recommends free, remote e-lending for libraries
http://www.thebookseller.com/news/sieghart-recommends-free-remote-e-lending-libraries.html

Phil Bradley’s Weblog : 27th March
An Independent Review of E-Lending in Public Libraries in England 
http://philbradley.typepad.com/phil_bradleys_weblog/2013/03/an-independent-review-of-e-lending-in-public-libraries-in-england-.html

THE BOOKSELLER : 27th March
PLR to transfer to British Library
http://www.thebookseller.com/news/plr-transfer-british-library.html

PLR News : 27th March
PLR transfers to The British Library
http://www.plr.uk.com/allaboutplr/news/whatsNew.htm

British Library : 27th March
Public Lending Right transfer
http://pressandpolicy.bl.uk/Press-Releases/Public-Lending-Right-transfer-618.aspx

Public Library News  26th March
Editorial |  Guardian reports that paid staff “have learned a lot from the volunteers”

http://www.publiclibrariesnews.com/2013/03/guardian-reports-that-paid-staff-have-learned-a-lot-from-the-volunteers.html

THE GUARDIAN : 27th March
LGA faces body blow as eight leading cities serve notice to quit
http://www.guardian.co.uk/local-government-network/2013/mar/27/core-cities-quit-lga

Wandsworth Guardian : 27th March
New management for Wandsworth’s libraries after Easter
http://www.wandsworthguardian.co.uk/news/10317436.New_management_for_Wandsworth_s_libraries_after_Easter/

Rhyl Journal : 27th March
Denbighshire | Library will be a new chapter for Prestatyn town
http://www.rhyljournal.co.uk/news/121209/library-will-be-a-new-chapter-for-prestatyn-town.aspx

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

BBC News : 26th March
Edzell library restoration boosted by Leader funds
Plans to recreate a Victorian library in Edzell have been boosted following a £33,300 grant from a fund to supporting rural projects in Tayside.  Angus Council is planning to restore the Inglis Memorial library to its original 1898 design.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-tayside-central-21943228

THE GUARDIAN : 25th March
Libraries run by volunteers as councils look to save money
Nearly half of the libraries on the Isle of Wight are now run by community volunteers ….. …..  Janene Cox, said: “Challenging times do require innovative thinking and we are determined that services will continue to progress and develop so that libraries can continue to make a difference to the communities they serve.”
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2013/mar/25/libraries-volunteers-councils-save-money

THE GUARDIAN : 26th March
Labour needs to recapture the spirit and nerve of 1945
As libraries, swimming pools, sports, youth centres, arts, parks, roads, housing, school repairs and myriad other non-statutory servicestake a hit, a backlog of public squalor builds up – another national debt to be repaid later. The Guardian survey shows the next wave of cuts falling on statutory services: care for the old and child protection, both already threadbare and likely to suffer scandals.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2013/mar/25/labour-recapture-spirit-nerve-1945?INTCMP=SRCH

THE GUARDIAN : 26th March
Council cuts will bring local government ‘to its knees’

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2013/mar/25/council-cuts-local-government-knees

FutureGov.Asia : 26th March
Not by the book: the new Edinburgh libraries
To remain relevant in the modern world, Edinburgh libraries have expanded their roles as public service institutions. “We’re creating institutions that are more than libraries”, explains McGettigan. “Our libraries are becoming trusted hubs in the community, supporting personal businesses, helping the digitally excluded, providing access to learning and knowledge, and serving as a gateway to local and national government”.
http://www.futuregov.asia/articles/2013/mar/26/not-book-new-edinburgh-libraries/

Infoism : 26th March
Anarchy! In the library!
One of the things I have been mulling over for some time now, is the idea of overturning the hierarchical structures in libraries.  That sounds rather grand…probably grander than it actually is.  I guess what I have been pondering is whether we can turn the library service from being run in a ‘top down’ fashion to one that is more of a collaboration with users.
http://infoism.co.uk/2013/03/anarchy-in-the-library/

Peterborough Telegraph : 26th March
Approval for cuts to Peterborough library opening hours 
http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/lifestyle/arts-culture/approval-for-cuts-to-peterborough-library-opening-hours-1-4936931

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Portsmouth News : 25th March
Author: Why libraries are vital for communities
We need public libraries and we need librarians.
http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/author-why-libraries-are-vital-for-communities-1-4931986

My Record Journal : 24th March
Libraries pay a premium for e-books, if they can get them
http://www.myrecordjournal.com/local/article_fd959726-94fe-11e2-9fae-001a4bcf887a.html

Bournemouth Echo : 25th March
Libraries will NOT be axed – but they do have to make £1.7m by 2020
A renewed pledge has been made that no Bournemouth libraries will face the axe – but they will have to make cuts and generate income worth of £1.7million.  Following a wide-ranging review of the town’s library service, councillors are pledging no closures, no reduction in hours and no adverse impact on the home library service.
http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/10311334.Libraries_will_NOT_be_axed_____but_they_do_have_to_make___1_7m_by_2020/

Shirley has put a Libraries comment on this
THE BOOKSELLER : 22nd March
Bookshop browsing vital for publishing, research finds
http://thebookseller.com/news/bookshop-browsing-vital-publishing-research-finds.html

Peterborough Today : 25th March
Cabinet meeting: City Council agree library cuts
At the Town Hall meeting of the council’s cabinet this morning, a raft of measures were introduced to save £200,000 from the library service, including cutting hours, a reduction in £18,000 from the management budget and a reduction of £50,000 from the book budget.
http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/lifestyle/the-guide/cabinet-meeting-city-council-agree-library-cuts-1-4932448

Barnet & Whetstone Press : 25th March
New library plan for Finchley
If planning permission is granted, the firm has agreed to create an 800m² library over two floors and lease it to the council. A council spokeswoman said Church End Library would remain open until the new building opened, which could be as soon as 2015, before being sold off.
http://www.barnet-today.co.uk/news.cfm?id=9879&headline=New%20library%20plan%20for%20Finchley

South Wales Argus : 25th March
Letter | Halt closure of library
http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/letters/10312137.Halt_closure_of_library/

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Dunstable Today : 23rd March
Luton | Library feedback deadline extended 
One option will stop the mobile library service,while the other option will keep the service by reducing opening hours at some libraries.

http://www.dunstabletoday.co.uk/community/library-feedback-deadline-extended-1-4926971
Lancashire Telegraph : 24th March
£2.4million youth zone in Chorley library
http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/chorley/10302359.__2_4million_youth_zone_in_Chorley_library/

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council : March 2013
‘Facing the Challenge’ – Developing Library Services within Southend-on-Sea 2013-2028
http://minutes.southend.gov.uk/akssouthend/images/att22388.pdf

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

THE GUARDIAN : 22nd March
The library: beating heart of the school 
The school library is a refuge and a place of discovery, says author Alan Gibbons
http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/2013/mar/22/love-your-library-school-alan-gibbons

DAILY MAIL : 22nd March
Town battles against £2m new library as it calls on council to keep existing historic Victorian building
there is a further article in The Guardian
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2297400/Town-battles-2m-new-library-calls-council-existing-historic-Victorian-building.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

Southend Standard : 21st March
Unison accuses council of blackmailing communities over library shake-up
http://www.southendstandard.co.uk/news/southend/10302054.Unison_accuses_council_of_blackmailing_communities_over_library_shake_up/

Community Knowledge Hub
Video | Ed Vaizey MP at Locality’s Enterprising Community Libraries (5th March)
for info:  Attempts by Save Kensal Rise Library to pin down the Minister: at 19:20min & 22:40min in. 
http://libraries.communityknowledgehub.org.uk/resource/ed-vaizey-mp-localitys-enterprising-community-libraries

Bicester Advertiser & Review : 22nd March
Buckinghamshire | Enthusiasm from all ages for Winslow community library 
“We can’t really say how many solid volunteers we’ve got but we’ve certainly got enough to get us started on our training programme.”
http://www.buckinghamtoday.co.uk/lifestyle/local-services/enthusiasm-from-all-ages-for-winslow-community-library-1-4925379

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Public Libraries News : 20th March
Developed Countries Libraries down, Developing Countries Libraries up?
http://www.publiclibrariesnews.com/2013/03/developed-countries-libraries-down-developing-countries-libraries-up.html

Information Daily : 21st March
Library services are more than buildings, says Capita 
New article – Shirley Burnham argues that public servants should be safeguarding the library service against the private sector’s predatory practices  which threaten the public good.
http://www.theinformationdaily.com/2013/03/21/library-services-are-more-than-buildings-says-capita

THE GUARDIAN : 21st March
Glossop battles over fate of town’s historic gothic hall and new library
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2013/mar/21/glossop-battles-library-victoria-hall

THE ECONOMIST : 21st March
E-books mean a plot twist for public libraries and publishers
http://www.economist.com/news/international/21573966-e-books-mean-plot-twist-public-libraries-and-publishers-folding-shelves

Good Library Guide : 21st March
Where is Yinnon Ezra? 
www.goodlibraryguide.com/blog

Southend Standard : 21st March
Council defends spending £12.5m on Forum while closing branch libraries
http://www.southendstandard.co.uk/news/10302021.Council_defends_spending___12_5m_on_Forum_while_closing_branch_libraries/

BBC News: 21st March
Petition over potential closure of Sheffield libraries
Councillor Shaffaq Mohammed said there was “anger across Sheffield” at the Labour-run authority’s plans. “We’ve put forward a number of sensible suggestions which would allow the council to avoid the closure of a single library.
Unfortunately, these have been rejected by Labour bosses who are determined to protect their own pet projects.”
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-21874322

Look Local : 21st March
Sheffield | Library petition reaches 10,000
“Whilst every library is precious, closing a library in outlying areas would have a particularly negative effect as local residents would have miles to travel to access similar services. We are urging Sheffield’s Labour councillors to cut spending on Town Hall refurbishments and expensive consultants instead”
http://www.looklocal.org.uk/wordpress/?p=1106

Coventry Telegraph : 21st March
Libraries and adult courses under threat in Coventry City Council cuts
But he vowed to do all he could to keep all Coventry’s 18 libraries open.
http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/2013/03/21/libraries-and-adult-courses-under-threat-in-coventry-city-council-cuts-92746-33034357/

South Wales Argus : 21st March
Protest meeting bid to save Stow Hill library
http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/10306286.Protest_meeting_bid_to_save_Stow_Hill_library/

Surrey News : 21st March
Surrey CC | Teenagers choose library stock in UK first project – and it’s not all about Twilight
http://news.surreycc.gov.uk/2013/03/21/teenagers-choose-library-stock-in-uk-first-project-and-its-not-all-about-twilight/

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

THE BOOKSELLER : 20th March
ACE/SCL report says libraries ‘forgotten’ 
“It is strange for the organisations behind this website to launch it with such negative results—news like this is what gives councils green lights to cut their services or hand them over to volunteers.”
http://www.thebookseller.com/news/acescl-report-says-libraries-forgotten.html

Hansard | Written Answers – Digital exclusion : 18th March
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmhansrd/cm130318/text/130318w0001.htm#130318w0001.htm_wqn48

Romania Insider : 20th March
Study: More Romanians using libraries, but 64% say they need more funding 
http://www.romania-insider.com/study-more-romanians-using-libraries-but-64-say-they-need-more-funding/77923/

Pakistan Today : 20th March
More libraries needed in the country – ICCBS director
…the existence of libraries and their proper use has become an indicator to evaluate the pace of progress of any country. Pakistan needs to have more libraries in every corner of the country to accelerate the pace of economic and social progress.
http://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2013/03/20/city/karachi/more-libraries-needed-in-the-country-iccbs-director-2/

Portsmouth News : 20th March
Authors speak up over under-threat library bus service
‘If the visiting library bus service is to be cut then this stresses even more the importance of keeping the network of branch libraries across the city open and accessible.  It also highlights the need to keep and build up school libraries. They are especially important for children whose parents would not normally take them to a local public library.’
http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/local/authors-speak-up-over-under-threat-library-bus-service-1-4915206

Brighton & Hove News : 19th March
Work starts on new library and medical centre in Woodingdean
Building work is expected to last about a year and the project is expected to cost about £1.6 million, with Brighton and Hove City Council spending £500,000 on the library.
http://www.brightonandhovenews.org/2013/03/19/work-starts-on-new-library-and-medical-centre-in-woodingdean/20274

About My Area : 20th March
Stony Stratford Library Transfers To The Town Council
Following a pilot scheme under the council’s Community Asset Transfer programme, the property of Stony Stratford Library has now been transferred to Stony Stratford Town Council.
http://www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/Buckinghamshire/Milton-Keynes/MK11/News/Local-News/243953-Stony-Stratford-Library-Transfers-To-The-Town-Council 

The Star : 20th March
Sheffield | Read this: closing libraries may work 
See I rather reckon, in 2013, there is no need for Sheffield to have 27 separate libraries; I rather reckon, if we took a moment to look beyond Victorian sentimentality, we would see maintaining such a resource in such numbers is an outrageous waste of public money; I rather reckon, ultimately, Sheffield City Council is right to prune the service.
http://www.thestar.co.uk/lifestyle/columnists/read-this-closing-libraries-may-work-1-5506595

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

BBC News : 19th March
Bristol’s new Junction 3 library opens
A new £3m library, which includes a learning centre, a computer suite and a children’s library, has opened in Bristol.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-21850512

They Work For You : 18th March
Culture Media and Sport | E Vaizey MP Written Answer to Dan Jarvis Q | Library Standards
http://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2013-03-18a.148568.h&s=%22public+library%22+OR+%22public+libraries%22+OR+%22library+service%22

ITV News : 19th March
Research finds country’s libraries are being neglected
http://www.itv.com/news/tyne-tees/update/2013-03-19/research-finds-countrys-libraries-are-being-neglected/

Bookmark Your Library : 19th March
Are our public libraries being forgotten? “Use them or lose them” says new online library service
http://www.bookmarkyourlibrary.org.uk/news/10/73/Are-our-public-libraries-being-forgotten-Use-them-or-lose-them-says-new-online-library-service
and
http://www.bookmarkyourlibrary.org.uk/  see their Home Page

South Wales Argus : 19th March
Meeting to save Stow Hill library ‘too late’ – says councillor
Cllr Fouweather said: “It’s a misleading statement from a desperate cabinet member who finds herself in difficulty. If she carries on the way she does she won’t have a portfolio to manage.”
http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/gwentnews/10299389.Meeting_to_save_Stow_Hill_library____too_late________says_councillor/

Croydon Guardian : 19th March
Croydon Labour group pledges to tear up libraries contract if they win 2014 local elections
http://www.croydonguardian.co.uk/news/10298693.Labour_group_pledges_to_tear_up_libraries_contract/

This Is Croydon : 19th March
Labour Party motion on Croydon’s libraries is defeated
The Labour motion was lost by 35 votes to 30.
http://www.thisiscroydontoday.co.uk/Labour-Party-motion-Croydon-s-libraries-defeated/story-18461421-detail/story.html#axzz2O05cEak5

BBC News : 19th March
Barnet services outsourcing challenged in court
He said the Capita contract “will save the taxpayer £1m a month and, given the state of public finances, Barnet Council is keen that we start to make these savings as quickly as possible”.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-21828852

Don’t Privatise Libraries : 19th March
Bankrupt San Bernardino looks to privatise libraries? 
http://dontprivatiselibraries.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/bankrupt-san-bernardino-looks-to.html 

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

DAILY MAIL : 17th March
Delhiites prefer books to the internet but shun city’s ‘poor-quality’ libraries, survey finds

Inside Croydon : 18th March
Council accused of being “out of control” over libraries
Godfrey claims that nearly half of Croydon’s budget for running its libraries is being spent not on books, librarians or related activities, but on behind-the-scenes facilities at the council’s offices, computers, facilities management, call centres and legal services. Godfrey believes that the council is bleeding the libraries of cash, while propping up inefficient back-office operations across the Town Hall generally.
http://insidecroydon.com/2013/03/18/council-accused-of-being-out-of-control-over-libraries/

South Wales Argus : 18th March
Newport council confirm Stow Hill library closure
The move will also mean that St Julians and Pillgwenlly libraries will be unstaffed within community learning centres.
http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/10295911.Newport_council_confirm_Stow_Hill_library_closure/

Guardian Series : 18th March
Community-run volunteer library set to open next month in Leytonstone
http://www.guardian-series.co.uk/news/wfnews/10297151.Community_run_volunteer_library_set_to_open_next_month/

This Is Somerset : 18th March
Funding released for Somerset’s libraries
Funding worth £50,000 has been made available to help communities and voluntary organisations across Somerset deliver library services.  The grant is part of the Community Enablement Fund – a scheme that has awarded over £300,000 in grants to local communities since its launch in 2012.
http://www.thisissomerset.co.uk/Funding-released-Somerset-s-libraries/story-18451127-detail/story.html#axzz2NulGrr42

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Public Libraries News : 17th March
Use it or lose it
http://www.publiclibrariesnews.com/2013/03/use-it-or-lose-it.html

Don’t Privatise Libraries : 17th March
The Capita Report; ‘Protecting Library Services’ or “would you buy a used car from this bunch?” 
http://dontprivatiselibraries.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/the-capita-report-protecting-library.html 

Brent & Kilburn Times : 17th March
Project launched to improve library services for Dollis Hill residents
Residents in Dollis Hill will soon be able to pick up or borrow a book in their local shops and eateries thanks to a new project to improve library services.  The Dollis Hill “‘Love Books”  Project will see books from Brent’s Library Service collected and brought to the area’s cafés, eateries and shops. They can then be used like a library where regulars can borrow and read books based on a trust basis.
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/news/project_launched_to_improve_library_services_for_dollis_hill_residents_1_1980295

Good Library Guide : 17th March
The solution to the ebooks in libraries problem will probably come from the US
http://www.goodlibraryguide.com/blog/

Save Croydon Libraries Campaign: 17th March
Can you believe Croydon Labour on libraries?
http://soslibrary.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/can-you-believe-croydon-labour-on.html

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Manchester Evening News : 15th March
‘Libraries to stay open’ insist town hall chiefs 
Rochdale council is currently consulting with the public before revamping the borough’s library service.
http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/rochdales-libraries-stay-open-insist-1749105

Inside Croydon : 16th March
Emergency meeting called on sell-off of public libraries
http://insidecroydon.com/2013/03/16/emergency-meeting-called-on-sell-off-of-public-libraries/

Professional Pensions.com : 14th March
LGPS dispute stalls Croydon Council procurement 
A dispute over the liability for local government pension scheme  contributions has caused the breakdown of a Croydon Council procurement  exercise.
http://www.professionalpensions.com/professional-pensions/news/2253948/lgps-dispute-stalls-croydon-council-procurement

BBC News : 16th March
West Bridgford Library reopens after £5.3m rebuild
The West Bridgford development follows the £3.4m refurbishment of Mansfield Library last year.  Three years ago the authority cut its budget for new library books, and reduced the opening hours of some of its smaller libraries.  It claimed the savings on books had helped prevent the closure of some of Nottinghamshire’s 60 libraries.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-21788872

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter. There were no notable news items yesterday.

Cultural Value Initiative : 8th February
Community Libraries – looking to the past to inform the present by David McMenemy
These were all reasons why the public library service was failing the public, yet 71 years later for political purposes we are proposing to go back to the kind of structure which McColvin fought so hard to eradicate.
http://culturalvalueinitiative.org/2013/02/08/community-libraries-looking-to-the-past-to-inform-the-present-by-david-mcmenemy/

Islington Tribune : 15th March
Library ‘secret’ sparks stand-up row in the street between by-election rivals
http://www.islingtontribune.com/news/2013/mar/library-%E2%80%98secret%E2%80%99-sparks-stand-row-street-between-election-rivals

Save Croydon Libraries : 14th March
Shh! Croydon Labour calls meeting over Libraries 
http://soslibrary.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/shh-croydon-labour-calls-meeting-over.html

Information Daily : 15th March
Public libraries must adapt to survive, says Capita 
http://www.theinformationdaily.com/2013/03/15/public-libraries-must-adapt-to-survive-says-capita

They Work For You : 14th March
Public Libraries: Closures | Written Answers:  Culture Media and Sport

http://www.theyworkforyou.com/wrans/?id=2013-03-14a.148072.h&s=%22public+library%22+OR+%22public+libraries%22+OR+%22library+service%22&buffer_share=c0ab7&utm_source=buffer

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Information Rights and Wrongs : 13th March
The Right to Unknown Information
http://informationrightsandwrongs.com/2013/03/13/the-right-to-unknown-information/

PublicService.co.uk : 13th March
NHS cash to turn libraries and pubs into digital health hubs
The NHS Commissioning Board has announced plans to get 100,000 more people using the internet to improve their own health.  As part of a new partnership with the Online Centres Foundation, the commissioning board will provide funding to help develop existing UK Online Centres based in libraries, communities, centres and even pubs …
http://www.publicservice.co.uk/news_story.asp?id=22418

Sky News : 13th March
Newcastle College Provides New Hope For Four Branch Libraries Facing The Axe
http://tyneandwear.sky.com/news/article/59509/newcastle-college-provides-new-hope-for-libraries-facing-the

This Is Derbyshire : 13th March
New £1.4m Chaddesden library named after Derby MP Phillip Whitehead opens after 12-year campaign
http://www.thisisderbyshire.co.uk/New-pound-1-4m-Chaddesden-library-named-Derby-MP/story-18400056-detail/story.html#axzz2NPSDSUOT

Capita Software : 12th March
Capita launches new white paper: ‘Protecting Library Services’
http://www.capita-software.co.uk/protectinglibraryservices

Daventry Express : 13th March
Innovation award for library enterprise hubs 
Northamptonshire County Council’s library service has received a national award for its work to help local people get started in business.
http://www.daventryexpress.co.uk/community/innovation-award-for-library-enterprise-hubs-1-4893500

Eastbourne Herald : 13th March
Library and housing complex underway 
The project is part of a multi-million pound investment in libraries in East Sussex which will also see new facilities built in Hastings and Newhaven. The Seaford complex is expected to open in spring 2014.
http://www.eastbourneherald.co.uk/news/local-news/library-and-housing-complex-underway-1-4887284

A digest of today’s news items, reproduced here, with kind permission from Shirley Burnham who collated it.  For up to date libraries news follow @ShirleyBurnham on Twitter.

Public Policy Exchange
Event | The Future of Local Libraries and Cultural Services
Tuesday April 16th 2013.  10.15 a.m. to 4:30 pm – Central London  (pse read details in the link)
http://publicpolicyexchange.co.uk/events/DD16-PPE.php

Public Libraries News : 12th March
Southend, Cambridgeshire, Accra and Schrodinger’s Cat
http://www.publiclibrariesnews.com/2013/03/southend-cambridgeshire-accra-and-schrodingers-cat.html

THE GUARDIAN : 12th March
Stamping out poverty as well as books? How libraries can support development
Stuart Hamilton is director of policy and advocacy, at the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions. He tweets as@IFLADPA
http://www.guardian.co.uk/global-development-professionals-network/2013/mar/12/libraries-power-global-development

What’s In Kenilworth.com
WCC Libraries Business Case Application Form – A Dragons’ Den Pitch?
Millions of pounds have been made available, and several quangos created, to weaken the public sector by establishing ‘community libraries’.  Apart from the substitution of paid staff,  there are serious concerns about sustainability, equal access and the creation of a postcode lottery, two-tier service.
http://www.whatsinkenilworth.com/2011/04/wcc-libraries-business-case-application.html

THE BOOKSELLER : 12th March
Five libraries to go in Southend
http://www.thebookseller.com/news/five-libraries-go-southend.html

The Echo : 12th March
Southend | Five libraries face closure under plans announced today
http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/10282059.Five_libraries_face_closure_under_plans_announced_today/

Cambridge News : 12th March
Anti-social behaviour on the rise amid Cambridgeshire library cuts, union claims
http://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/News/Anti-social-behaviour-on-the-rise-amid-Cambridgeshire-library-cuts-union-claims-12032013.htm

Don’t Privatise Libraries : 2012
A library glossary!
A witty and thought-provoking list.  For example:
21st Century Library – a shiny glass cube costing millions containing a cafe, a few beach reads and self-service machines located in a town centre.
http://dontprivatiselibraries.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/library-glossary.html