Public libraries in England

• Provide safe, neutral, shared environments for people from all walks of life
• Support formal education and learning at all times of life
• Act as centres of creativity
• Serve as focal points for their neighbourhood
• Are at the forefront of universal access to the internet and e-government

Libraries respond positively to local circumstance and need, and to the varying demands of the communities they serve, and they enjoy popular support:

• More than 60% of the population hold a library ticket
• 96% of people believe that public libraries are a valuable community resource
• There were over 274 million visits to public libraries during 2002/3, an increase of almost 4 million on the previous year
• 35% of the population visit public libraries at least once a month
• More people visit libraries than go to cinemas or attend football matches

Other facts and figures:

• There are 92.4million books in 3,500 public libraries and every year more than 318million book loans

• There are a further 34million issues of other material, including DVDs, videos, talking books

• Library staff answer 58.5million enquiries a year

• Nearly 25,000 People’s Network PC terminals are available in libraries for public use, 83% free of charge

More key statistics about public libraries are available here and others can be found in the advocacy section of this site.

Draft Guidance for Public Library Authorities on the Selection and Management of Controversial Literature in Libraries

In November 2007 the Government commissioned MLA to produce guidance for public libraries on the management of controversial material.

Consultation on draft guidance on the management of controversial material in public libraries (PDF 118KB)

Consultation with library managers and sector bodies has demonstrated a desire for guidance to highlight duties and responsibilities, advise on relevant legislation, consultation and engagement, and the sharing of best practice within a local context of local independence and accountability.

The consultation is now closed and responses are being reviewed to inform work on the guidance document.