Community Engagement and the Community Libraries Programme NEWS: 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. 
MLA is working in partnership with the Big Lottery Fund to deliver the £80million Community Libraries Programme. The Programme will deliver improvements for library spaces through increased engagement with local communities. Framework for the Future said that "Libraries are public anchors for neighbourhoods and for communities. They provide a sense of stability. For the majority of the population, libraries are acknowledged as safe, welcoming neutral spaces open to all in the community. They attract users from across the social spectrum." But the report also recognised that for some the library may seem a distant or intimidating place. It concluded: "All libraries need to work to establish programmes that will engage groups and individuals that are hard to reach by identifying them and establishing what are their particular needs and then by redesigning services when necessary so that there are no barriers to inclusion. Those libraries, which are already successful in this important work, frequently involve the communities themselves in the design and implementation of services." MLA worked with CSV (Community Service Volunteers) to investigate levels of community engagement in England's public libraries. CSV's report and accompanying toolkit are two important documents that helped inform the creation of the Community Libraries Programme. There is further information on the Community Libraries Programme, and Community Engagement in the following two sections: The Community Libraries Programme
Information and resources for library authorities involved in Community Libraries Programme projects Community engagement support
A collection of useful resources to help library services with their community engagement work.
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