2/7/2010 - Cumbria plans to help shape the libraries of the future

Cumbria is looking to play a key role as one of a handful of local authorities to help reshape Britain's library service to ensure its long-term survival and relevance in the 21st century. 

Speaking at a Remodelling Libraries Conference yesterday, Culture Minister Ed Vaizey named Cumbria as one of around 10 local authorities which have expressed an interest in undertaking intensive, proactive work with the Museums Libraries and Archive Council (MLA) and Local Government Association (LGA) on how to reshape the service and adapt to the current economic challenges.

The programme will be focused on how libraries can continue to deliver the key services valued by communities while driving down costs. The best learning from those projects will then be shared throughout the UK's wider public library network so that everyone can benefit from the work.

Yesterday the Minister reinforced the Government's commitment to a high quality library service with a radical rethink in how it is delivered. He urged consideration of options including shared services, merging functions, staffing across authorities, support from volunteers or the use of other community buildings. 

Mr. Vaizey emphasised that the programme will not be a ‘one-size-fits-all' approach and is based on the principle that local services know their communities best and that the solutions should be owned and driven by councils. 

Mr Vaizey said: "We need to ask tough questions, like whether there is scope for savings in reducing the number of library authorities through voluntary alliances. It's precisely because I believe so strongly in the value of public library services that I want to secure a sustainable future in the challenging times ahead."

Leader of Cumbria County Council, Councillor Eddie Martin said: "Here in Cumbria we have an excellent library service, one that has developed a reputation for innovation and delivering a high-quality customer service –often in sparse, rural locations. However, if the service is to maintain this reputation in future, it will need to meet head on the challenges now facing local government.

"We want a library service that properly meets the needs of 21st century society, and shows innovation in delivering more with less. This will involve changes and challenges. Cumbria is ready to play its part in the Government's library initiative and help shape the libraries of the future."

More information on the timescales and operational details of the work programme will be released by the MLA and LGA in due course. So far the following local authorities have expressed interest in taking part in the scheme: Cumbria, Bristol, Kensington & Chelsea, Blackburn, Cornwall and Newcastle. 

ENDS

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