How are Public Libraries funded?

Central Government core funding for public libraries is paid through the local government settlement, administered by the Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG). It is not ring-fenced.

Local authorities decide how to allocate core funding to public libraries in the light of their statutory duties and local priorities. Local authorities have a statutory duty to provide a "comprehensive and efficient library service" under the terms of the 1964 Public Libraries and Museums Act. Local authorities make decisions on what level of funding is required to meet this responsibility.

In 2006/07 total revenue expenditure by library authorities in England was just over £1 billion.