Framework for the Future  Welcome to the Framework for the Future area of the MLA website. Framework is the government’s vision for public libraries in England. Following publication of the Framework for the Future report in 2003 MLA was tasked with the development and implementation of a national action plan to stimulate and support public libraries in England in delivering that vision.
Find out the latest news below, or use the links on the left side of the screen to visit key sections. Look at Programmes to learn more about different Framework activities, or find out more about the report and national action plan under Background. Latest news - Library Benchmark: MLA will shortly publish a full set of tools to help museums, libraries and archives to make a greater contribution to communities through effective performance management and appropriate improvement support. One of these tools, the Library Benchmark, is already available:
 Library Benchmark (PDF 89KB)
This is a set of voluntary indicators to enable library managers to measure their own performance over time and to benchmark themselves against other authorities and nationally. The Benchmark focuses on the key areas of Satisfaction, Participation, Access, Resources, Quality and Efficiency. -
Community Libraries Programme Evaluation: Sector Projects and The Research Unit were engaged to evaluate the Big Lottery Community Libraries Programme. The research undertaken in six case study authorities identified that despite capacity challenges, library services are working hard to transform the libraries receiving funding and to use these to transform the entire service. The report, drawn from the baseline analysis, identifies positive work to transform library services studied, and six key areas where further attention has the potential to greatly increase the positive results for individuals and communities. The report and more information about the findings can be found on the Community engagement support area of this website. -
What should young people expect their local library service to offer? A coalition of organisations, the National Youth Libraries Board, has identified what young people should be able to expect their local library service to offer: Libraries and Young People (PDF31KB). This ‘offer’ statement is based on extensive research, consultation and best practice of many library services. It represents a national aspiration. The Board has developed resources for heads of library services and ASCEL members to support the use of the Library Youth Offer in local planning and strategic advocacy. Strategic resources, including an adaptable PowerPoint presentation for use with senior local authority stakeholders such as Directors of Children’s Services, are available to download at http://www.readingagency.org.uk/young/library-offer-to-young-people/. You can read more about the work of the Youth Libraries Board on a dedicated page on this website. - Enjoying Reading is a coordinated approach to supporting young readers through a partnership between schools, school libraries, scholl library services and public libraries. It aims to help every child love reading by encouraging schools and libraries to work in partnership. The website was funded by the Department for Children Schools and Families. It demonstrates how libraries can support schools and provides practical resources for joint work.
Who are we? The national Framework for the Future programme is being led by a small team at MLA, who work with colleagues within the organisation and a large number of partners. Meet the team The Museums, Libraries and Archives Council regional agencies are now working together as the MLA Partnership and share common goals and strategies. They are active in their areas and can offer further facts, figures, case studies and materials.  Partners
Many partners are involved in delivering projects within the Framework for the Future action plan including the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment, Improvement and Development Agency , Local Government Association, National Literacy Trust, National Youth Agency, Opening the Book, Society of Chief Librarians and The Reading Agency .
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