Libraries Live Journal - Journal - Page 1
Why?
The landscape of library services across
the UK is changing rapidly. Across our 3
counties over 50 libraries are managed
by local communities, typically serving
catchments of 10-20,000 residents.
Their governance is mainly volunteer
led community groups & charities. Many
are keen to organise cultural activity
with a strong desire to deliver the best
services they can for their communities.
However, a lack of time, support, funding
and know-how can often stall new ideas.
‘Public libraries are already very
involved in arts and culture, and this
offer will give libraries the resources to
expand their partnerships with local
culture organisations and provide more
ways for customers to get involved. We
want to attract new library customers
through arts and culture and help people
who don’t engage with art to develop a
love and appreciation of it.’
Neil MacInnes, Society of Chief Librarians
With the introduction of the Society of
Chief Librarian’s new Culture Offer for
libraries, it is an ideal time to begin to
embed creativity into everyday practice,
using arts as a tool for engagement & to
explore the opportunities it can bring.
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