CHANGE IS OVERDUE - a public charter for libraries |
We are currently in a situation where two thirds of people in the UK read in their free time[1] yet only one third of the population visit libraries[2]2. Why is this the case when libraries offer 24 hr web services, are open to all and provide access, free of charge, to books and an array of other interesting reading materials? Either it is because a public library service is not relevant today or, the more likely, libraries are not meeting the needs and wants of their local communities.
For too long the public library service and its management has been unresponsive to and disconnected from users and potential users. The essential value of public libraries needs to be reinforced at both local and national level and a focused effort must be made to see libraries fulfil their role and maintain their relevance for generations to come.
1. Make the
libraries local
Individual libraries, large and small, need to be empowered and resourced to
meet the specific needs of their local communities. The individuality of each
library cannot be overstated and libraries need the freedom to operate independently.
2. Increase
opening hours
In today’s society it is unforgivable that some libraries close for lunch or
on certain weekdays. Providing access to library services means opening libraries
at times when the community wants them open – late closing and weekend opening
should be the norm.
3. Improve library collections
Library collections, book stocks and other resources, have been neglected almost
everywhere and they need to be restored, maintained and made accessible. This
means increased funding for new stock, replacement stock and giving the public
access to special collections.
4. Improve
the library environment
All public libraries should be attractive and dignified places to visit and
in which to read and study. They need to be kept clean, safe and smart. Standards
of interior design need to be raised and building architecture used to best
effect. Appropriate local events and activities are important.
5. Embrace
technology
While books should remain the focus for libraries, computers and technology
can enhance users’ experience. With this in mind, computers and all associated
equipment needs to be in good working order and kept up to date. Internet-based
services, available round the clock, add value for many users and should be
extended and promoted.
6. Liberate
the library staff
Service to the public should be of a high professional standard. All staff,
long or short term, full time or temporary should be trained for the roles
they undertake. Volunteers are welcome for many aspects of the service, but
they cannot take the place of skilled librarians in provision of the day to
day service to readers.
7. Collaborate
and share best practice
Collaboration between neighbouring authorities will make limited resources
go further and sharing best practice will mean all libraries are better able
to meet users’ expectations. A range of funding sources is available and councils
need to explore the options and consult people about proposed change.
8. Don’t waste
money
Accurate, meaningful and consistent reporting of library budgets and expenditure
will encourage accountability and openness and mean all budget discussions
are grounded in facts.
9. Performance
feedback
Performance reporting should be timely accurate and clear. Every month councils
should report publicly the key usage figures for each library within their
responsibility.
10. Engage individuals and communities
There needs to be a substantial genuine effort to build trust between councils,
government bodies, library professionals and library users. Local councillors
must all be fully and properly informed about library matters and libraries
should actively work with their users in managing their libraries.
11. Don't
close libraries
Of course sometimes building development means that libraries have to move;
library services can be provided more efficiently in newer facilities; sometimes
closures can be justified. However residents are distrustful of assurances
of improvement and the onus is on councils to demonstrate the benefits of proposed
changes before they are made. Savings from library closures will be tiny compared
to the animosity generated among library users. Many library users belong to
groups sometimes marginalized by society—the elderly, the unemployed, single-parent
families—and the negative impact on these people’s lives following library
closures can outweigh any cost savings.
12. Make and
keep a promise
Public library users call upon councils to commit themselves to achieving the
aims of this charter.
[1] Source: Social Trends 39, ONS, 2009
[2] Source: Taking Part, DCMS, 2010