SCL Publishes Manifesto for Public Libraries
The Society of Chief Librarians (SCL) today published its Manifesto for public libraries, outlining the core ways that libraries help local people and calling for continued investment in this critical resource.
The SCL Manifesto states that libraries are adapting to and meeting the needs of local people, and every library in the UK is focused on core principles of reading, learning, literacy, and digital inclusion.
“Thirty-four million people a year visit public libraries in the UK. We want to make sure that the Government understands and acts on the priorities of local libraries,” said Fiona Williams, SCL President.
“The Department of Culture, Media and Sport today published its public library review and we welcome the proposals set out in it. As the people delivering the service, we are continuously looking for better ways to deliver a library service to the public, and we want to ensure that investment in libraries continues,” said Fiona Williams.
The Manifesto outlines SCL’s work and vision for libraries in these key areas:
- Reading and Literacy
- Digital Inclusion and Fluency
- Learning and Skills
- Business and Innovation
- Community Anchors
SCL actively supports and promotes new ways of delivering the library service through partnerships and sharing services across library authorities. SCL maintains a database of library success stories on its website, illustrating the powerful impact that libraries have on people’s lives.
In March the Bookseller reported a 1.3% rise in book borrowing in 2009, preliminary findings from the CIPFA public library statistics due to be published later this month.