Department for Culture Media and Sport
improving our libraries
Leadership/Workforce Development
It is essential that public library staff and their leaders are equipped with the skills to deliver a public library service for the 21st Century. Framework for the Future's Leading Modern Public Libraries Programme is aimed at strengthening leadership at all levels within a service: Heads of Service, Senior Managers and future Leaders. There is a strong focus within the course content on advocacy skills, political awareness, strategic thinking and transformational leadership.
The Museums Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) workforce development plan outlines 4 strategic objectives to achieve a skilled and diverse workforce across the sectors: a workforce fit for purpose; enhancing leadership and workforce skills; empowering learning and change; and research for action.
Buildings
Each library authority is responsible for its own public library buildings. DCMS believes they should all be fit for the needs of 21st century library users and must be welcoming and open to everyone.
The picture across the 149 authorities is patchy and the Third Report of the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee into public libraries was critical of the condition of library buildings in England. In 2006 MLA published an audit of the national public library estate.
A number of very good library buildings have opened in recent years. Many of these feature on the MLA funded website, Designing Libraries which aims to encourage good practice. The CABE, Better Public Libraries and 21st Century Libraries reports also stressed the need and benefits of good design.
DCMS has contributed around £130m PFI credits in library and part library projects over the last five years. In October 2007 successful applicants to The Big Lottery Fund Community Libraries Programme were announced. 58 authorities will receive a share of £80m to build or renovate libraries that will help deliver community based services by engaging local people.
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