SCL Announces Universal Membership

The Society of Chief Librarians (SCL) has announced that public libraries in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are open and welcome to any member of the public for use, regardless of where they live.

From 28 September, more than 4000 public libraries across England, Wales and Northern Ireland* are open for borrowing by any member of the public regardless of where they live. Customers will be able to borrow books from any library, and in some cases use other services such as DVD rental, online resources and classes. Library users simply need to show their existing library card, or proof of address, to join or access the library they are visiting.

SCL President Fiona Williams said: “Libraries are a public service for everybody. We want people to know that all libraries are open to them, not only the libraries where they live. This is an important step towards making libraries even more accessible to all.”

This announcement comes as SCL examines how a one library card system, possibly similar to British Columbia Libraries’ “BC One” card, could work for public libraries in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. As of today however, membership of a local library service entitles any customer, on production of their library ticket or membership card, to use or join other public library services in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Some areas of the UK, including the North West of England, have already done away with asking for forms of ID for membership, including libraries in Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool, Bury, Halton, Lancashire, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Sefton, Stockport and Trafford.

Currently, UK public libraries are reporting increased footfall and borrowing across the UK. It is a trend that indicates how libraries have become an essential resource to businesses, entrepreneurs and people struggling to stay afloat during the economic crisis.
Tony Durcan, Past President of the SCL, said: “For many people, libraries are an essential point of access to knowledge. Many public libraries offer the kind of free support that contributes to the sustainability and regeneration of local communities. Now every library is a local library.”