Libraries in England

Public libraries are an important local service supporting well-being, encouraging reading, spreading knowledge, contributing to learning and skills and helping to foster identity, community and a sense of place for people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures.

There are over 3,500 public libraries in England providing community access to a vast range of books and information resources. Every library also provides access to the internet through the People’s Network, and in the vast majority of cases, this is free of charge.

No. of Public Libraries in England (2008-09)

Useful publications

Useful case studies

For more information on the statistics please email research@mla.gov.uk

Latest News

Responsibilities transfer

From 1st October 2011, this site will not be updated, so please treat it as the static archive it is. This is because <a target="_Blank" href="http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/">Arts Council England</a> has now taken over museums and libraries responsibilities. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/">The National Archives</a> has assumed responsibility for strategic leadership of the Archives sector. Arts Council responsibilities will also now include the Renaissance programme, Museum Accreditation, and Library Development, together with cultural property services such as Export Licensing and the Acceptance in Lieu scheme. The National Archives has assumed responsibility for providing strategic leadership to the archives sector and advising government on its development. The MLA is now winding down, with a skeleton staff remaining until May 2012 to complete the management of existing Renaissance contracts, complete outstanding financial and contractual arrangements and prepare for the appointment of a liquidator. This website will remain live until 31st March so that the public still has full access to the material on it – good practice case studies, toolkits, guidance and a range of other publications. Continue reading

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