The MLA today described the publication, by a grouping of library users, of a public Charter as "timely and significant".
Chief Executive Roy Clare said: "Libraries are important in every community throughout the country, and all of them are well-supported by their users. All users likely share a common belief in the benefits of providing free access to books and information. At this challenging time for public services, I applaud any initiative designed to bring public support and influence to developing better library services for people and communities.
"I welcome the Charter in principle, especially its emphasis on local determination. It recognises that library users and the wider public are the first and principal stakeholders in the library service: it belongs to them, they have paid for its assets and they fund its operation. The more that the public is involved in decision-making through a variety of groupings of their choosing, the better.
"Library users are among the most important voices, but MLA also looks for library provision in the context of wider public services, responsibility to the taxpayer, and with a vision to ensure the service reaches non-users and those with no voice at all. We recognise that councils are responsible for delivering library services that meet the needs of their people and communities, and we are working very closely with local government, nationally and locally. We advocate initiatives that are consistent with the principles outlines in our prospectus, Sharper Investment for Changing Times."
As part of wider measures to demonstrate accountability, the MLA has committed to:
- Publish a link to the Charter for Public Libraries and other significant consumer-produced material from time to time
- Publish on its website a periodic report of its work on behalf of local authorities
- Conduct an annual open meeting, on a date and at a time that will be publicised at least two months in advance
- Maintain engagement with recognised representatives of library user groups
Ends
Notes to editors:
- Leading strategically, the MLA promotes best practice in museums, libraries and archives to inspire innovative, integrated and sustainable services for all.
- The Charter is available at http://www.mla.gov.uk/what/policy_development/current_consultations/library_charter
- Sharper Investment for Changing Times is at http://www.mla.gov.uk/what/strategies/sharper_investment_for_changing_times
- Best practice case studies are available at http://www.mla.gov.uk/what/raising_standards/best_practice
- On request, through its Field Teams across England, MLA offers advice and guidance for local government, distributes evidence and other data and promotes innovation and good practice. Typically, at any one time, MLA is working with more than fifty councils.