SCL Statement on Public Library Review

The Society of Chief Librarians responds to Margaret Hodge's speech at the Public Library Authorities Conference, 8 October 2009 in Bristol.

As the representative body of public library services that are delivering change in libraries, SCL welcomes Margaret Hodge’s commitment to further consultations on the Public Library Review. We will be taking up Margaret Hodge’s recent invitation to SCL to help develop a radical vision for a sustainable future of public libraries.

One of the ideas outlined in the Minister’s speech was library membership at birth, issuing newborns with library cards that they would carry with them throughout their lifetime. Some public libraries, including in North Yorkshire, are already doing this by issuing cards from the Registrar’s office when births are registered.

Fiona Williams, SCL President, said: “All public libraries engage with babies through the national Bookstart programme. We welcome all ideas that further engage library users and potential users, and starting with babies is an excellent idea.”

SCL welcomes the challenge given to us by the Minister and looks forward to rigorous and productive debate. SCL leads the development of public libraries on behalf of local communities and will continue to help people imagine and achieve a brave and bold long-term future for libraries.