Editorial

I started Public Libraries News back in 2010, when the word “austerity” was being used for the first time and eBooks were just coming in. My daughters were 3 and 6 years old. Yesterday I took the youngest of them to their new university for the first time and I recently attended the graduation of my eldest. Unfortunately, though, austerity is still with us and does not appear to have changed.

Writing PLN, as it appears to have become known as, was at first a professional development activity as I simply did not know what else was going on in other library services. Then, in short order, it became a campaigning one as the first mass library closures were being announced. After that, it became more part of my identity and, to be honest, a source of personal pride. Now, though, with the hope of the new Labour government being smashed as they continue cuts, it’s all a bit samey. And, of course, it would be nice not to sacrifice every Sunday morning to doing the blog. In short, doing PLN is no longer fun and being it’s a voluntary activity, I have been asking myself for a while if I should continue doing it. Having now become an official Empty Nester, the answer is clear. it’s time to move on.

So, thank you to all of you who have read and contributed to Public Libraries News. The website will continue for a short while but there will be no further updates to it. Wishing you all the best. It’s been an honour to do the website and to meet and talk to so many inspirational library figures and I am sure I will miss that. But the downsides now outweigh the upsides so …

Goodbye.

Changes by local authority

• Durham – New library/leisure centre for Bishop Auckland
• Haringey – Muswell Hill Library will reopen in late September
• Gloucestershire – Gloucester Library reopens on university campus in October
• Hounslow – Cranford Library to close, to move into community hub

National news

• GLL shortlisted for National Award for Library Innovation – GLL. “shortlisted in the finals of the SEUK Awards in the ‘Social Enterprise Innovation of the Year’ category for its ‘Literary Foundation”
• Library bodies wrangle censorship question but warn of deeper issues – BookSeller. “For Coiffait-Gunn, the debate – across the spectrum of libraries, from school to public – coalesces primarily around trans rights. “When people talk about censorship, they’re talking about trans rights,” he says. “That’s about 80% of the issue, from what we see. We’re not in this place in America where parents or public-library users are complaining about books about race or something like that. “
• National Library in Edinburgh announces U-turn on gender-critical book “censorship” – Deadline. “the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh has announced that it will reverse its decision to pull a gender-critical book of essays from a centrepiece display. The library decided to pull the anthology from a display celebrating 100 years since the library’s founding last month after complaints from the institution’s LGBT staff network. “
• Welsh headteachers speak out against libraries – Nation Cymru. “In a bold stand against the creeping menace of literacy, a headteachers’ union has bravely denounced Plaid Cymru’s pledge to put a library in every primary school. The plan, which would cost the taxpayer a ruinous £1 million over four years (less than a month’s worth of subsidy for Cardiff Airport), has been dismissed as “short-sighted” and a “red herring.” The National Association of Head Teachers Cymru insists that every school already provides “access to books”, and that the money should be directed to more pressing educational concerns than reading.”

Local news by authority

• Angus – Library fund open for applications for community projects – Angus County World. “The annual Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF) has opened for applications, with libraries across Scotland set to benefit from a share of funding of £450,000.”
• Barnsley – Barnsley Libraries selected to take part in Europe Challenge programme – Council. “Barnsley Libraries has been awarded a place on the Europe Challenge for 2025/26, joining an international network of libraries and communities working together to tackle some of Europe’s most pressing challenges through creativity and collaboration. The Europe Challenge is a programme initiated by the European Cultural Foundation. It brings together libraries and communities to address Europe’s key transitions—social, digital, and green—by implementing creative solutions in their local areas.”
• Birmingham – Refurbishment works set for 10 libraries amid safety fears – Hits Radio. “the council wants to carry out work after acknowledging several libraries were in a “poor state of disrepair”. “The proposal is to roll out a programme of works to refurbish and upgrade up to ten libraries to bring them up to a reasonable condition and extend the buildings’ life”: Handsworth, Northfield, Mere Green, Quinton, Small Heath, Acocks Green, Erdington, Kings Heath, Hall Green and Perry Common. see also Leaking roofs and broken boilers – inside Birmingham’s libraries as repairs due at last – Birmingham Live.
• Bradford – Food-themed events to encourage people to use Bradford’s libraries – Telegraph and Argus. “Throughout September, libraries across Bradford will host a mix of free events, including author talks, writing workshops, food-themed crafts, film screenings, and cooking sessions.”
• Brighton and Hove – Council removes children’s library campaign poster – BBC. “Sarah Craven-Antill, from the The Save Rottingdean Library Campaign group, said she was “dismayed” the poster had been removed. Councillor Alan Robins, cabinet member for sport, recreation and libraries, said: “The poster was removed as we want to keep our libraries a neutral space while the consultation is live.” Ms Craven-Antill said she had written a message on social media asking “young people to make posters supporting the campaign”.”
• Caerphilly – ‘Hang your heads in shame,’ residents hit out at library closures – South Wales Argus. “Oakdale Library is among ten libraries marked for closure under Caerphilly Council’s new ‘hub’ scheme. According to the council the closures will bring way for ‘more modern’ community hubs that still have books and library services but also offer extra support for help with jobs, money, health, and learning.”
• Ceredigion – Cabinet approves changes to library opening hours – Cambrian News. “The recommendations were unanimously approved cabinet on Tuesday and was praised by the council leader, Cllr Bryan Davies, who said: “Many authorities are looking to close libraries and this shows a support for the service.””
• Durham – Construction starts on new leisure centre and library – Newton News. “The creation of a new leisure centre and library for Bishop Auckland has reached its first major milestone. Durham County Council has held an official ground-breaking ceremony to mark the start of construction of the town’s new leisure centre and library, which will see the current facilities replaced with a new, modern community hub.”
• Edinburgh – Edinburgh Libraries photo competition celebrates gardening and the city’s parks, gardens and green spaces – Edinburgh News. “It was part of the ongoing Edinburgh Collected project, a website run by Edinburgh Libraries where people can upload their memories and browse through other people’s.”
• Enfield – Eyesore’ £18,000 mural Labour council painted without permission sparks war with locals who have branded it ‘hideous’ – Daily Mail. “The mural, by artist Albert Agwa, now faces an uncertain future after it emerged that planning permission should have been sought beforehand due to the library being located in a conservation area. The council has since submitted a retrospective application.”
• Gloucestershire – Opening date revealed for Gloucester Library’s brand-new facilities at University of Gloucestershire City Campus – So Glos. “Relocation plans were approved for the library to move from its current home on Brunswick Road in Gloucester to the University of Gloucestershire‘s new City Campus premises in September 2022, with a grand opening taking place from 9am on the Saturday to welcome visitors in style.”
• Haringey -Muswell Hill Library to reopen after extensive refurbishment – Ham and High. “Muswell Hill Library will officially reopen on Monday, September 29, after extensive refurbishment—marking the first time all nine of Haringey’s libraries will be open since before the Covid-19 pandemic.”
• Hounslow – Meadowbank Community Hub and Library set to open this autumn – Council. “Cranford Library is moving to Hounslow Council’s popular Meadowbank Centre, which will become Meadowbank Community Hub and Library. The new Community Hub and Library, which is less than 500 metres from the current location of Cranford Library, will open in October. “
• Kent – Library moved to another temporary location – BBC. “Folkestone Library was forced to leave Grace Hill in December 2022 after the condition of the building sparked safety concerns. Services are now based at Shepway Youth Centre but will move to Sandgate Road by the spring if a change of use planning application is approved, Kent County Council said.”
• Leeds – Help stitch history: Contribute to Leeds’ new threads of freedom tapestry – Council. “Leeds Libraries are inviting residents to help create an inspiring new tapestry that will become a lasting part of the city’s cultural heritage. As part of the national campaign Our Freedom: Then and Now, the Threads of Freedom project has received funding to work with communities across the city to produce a collaborative textile artwork. This new piece will be displayed alongside the much-loved Leeds Tapestry on the first floor of Leeds Central Library. “
• Lincolnshire – Palestine vigil activists urge Louth Library to sever links with Barclays – Lincolnshire World. Activitists “accuse Barclays of “directly helping Israel to fund its atrocities” in the war through its investments and loans.”
• Manchester – Finding ‘library allies’ key for Nibbies winner Manchester Libraries – BookSeller. “Neil MacInnes, head of libraries, galleries and culture at Manchester City Libraries, talks to The Bookseller about what drives the award-winning service. What impressed The British Book Awards judges about Manchester Libraries’ entry to the Library of the Year award 2025, revived after eight years, was the innovation, collaboration and wide reach of its Blue Peter Book Club Live programme, which made use of the Blue Peter brand to bring children and families into contact with libraries and reading.”
  • 8 in 10 Mancs want to see more investment in libraries – 9 best libraries in Manchester according to Tripadvisor – Manchester World. “New data reveals that library users are saving an average of £1,472.79 per year by utilising services such as book loans, digital resources, and free Wi-Fi or hotdesking spaces, showing that libraries don’t just enrich lives—they deliver real financial benefits. New research from Better Libraries reveals overwhelming public support for greater investment in libraries across the UK, with particularly strong backing in Manchester.”
• Medway – National Literacy Day events as Medway’s libraries – Council. “Events include ‘Blind date with a book’ where adults can choose from a selection of books which have been wrapped up with only a short description, a battle of the book genres where residents can vote for their favourite genre with the winning one getting a special display, as well as storytime, craft and activity sessions.”
• Norfolk -Trouble doubles in county’s libraries – BBC. “Norfolk County Council said it had recorded 242 incidents at its buildings in the last year, compared to 115 the year before.” … “the library in Gorleston was having to be locked “most afternoons and evenings” after problems which the council said “typically involved groups of teenagers”.”
• Northern Ireland – Cullybackey man champions upcoming library events for people with sight loss – Love Ballymena. “He praised the upcoming ‘Go on NI’ technology sessions at Ballymena Central Library as an ideal starting point for those hesitant about using smartphones and tablets.”
• Northumberland – Manga exhibition visits to Northumberland Libraries – Council. ““This forward-thinking exhibition is to help engage with new audiences and encourage teens to visit and thrive in our library spaces but all visitors are welcome to discover why these works resonate with so many and why manga is now considered a truly global language of storytelling.”
• North Yorkshire – Skipton residents encouraged to take part in know your numbers week – Your Skipton. ” free self-service blood pressure checks will be available at Skipton Library during opening hours. Residents can also borrow a blood pressure monitor using their library card, with the equipment available from any North Yorkshire Council-managed library.”
  • Girl, 12, visits all 42 libraries in North Yorkshire – Northern Echo. “Kaitlin Clarkson, from near Masham, has read around 150 library books this year and decided to visit the county’s 42 libraries during the school break”
• Nottingham – Protest planned as campaigners ‘fed up’ over Sherwood Library debacle – Nottinghamshire Live. “The new library in Spondon Street has been plagued by dozens of problems, from changing contractors to over 100 defects, and a number of planned opening dates have come and gone. A ‘sit and read’ event will be held outside the library at 10.30am on Saturday (September 6), with residents having missed out on their summer reading challenge due to the facility not being open.”
• Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire short story competition to begin next week – Herald Series. Library service runs the competition. “Now in its 11th year, the annual competition is a chance to discover new writers, original stories, and unique voices from around Oxfordshire.”
• South Lanarkshire – Blantyre library closes ahead of leisure centre move – Daily Record.
• Staffordshire -Library to relocate as refurbishment work begins – BBC. “Leek Library will move to the adjoining Moorlands House while work is undertaken on the town’s Nicholson Institute.”
• Stoke on Trent – Parents invited to sign their babies up for free library card – Council. “Stoke-on-Trent Libraries have been awarded £3,925 from Arts Council England and Libraries Connected for the My First Library Card initiative. The scheme will see registrars invite families to sign their babies up to their local library from birth.”
• Surrey – Village library closes for masonry investigation – BBC. “Molesey Library first closed its doors on 29 August due to “unforeseen access issues”
• Tower Hamlets – New children’s library opens at Idea Store Canary Wharf – Council. “Tower Hamlets Council and Canary Wharf Group are working in partnership, spending £1.4m on improving and increasing the learning offer for residents, at Idea Store Canary Wharf.  The creation of a new children’s library separated from, and next to the main Idea Store is part of the overall investment. Attractive new features include additional space, new heating, cooling, air ventilation, lighting, and flooring. “
• Warwickshire – SEND community in Warwickshire asked to help shape UK’s first mobile sensory public library – Fosse 107. “The Discovery Den will be the UK’s first mobile sensory public library. “
• Wiltshire – Wall at town library in Malmesbury facing collapse – Standard. Council needs to “dismantle and rebuild a section of the leaning northern boundary wall of Malmesbury Library “

Editorial

There’s a certain joy to working on a project and seeing it come to fruition. I’m in the happy position of being occasionally able to do this for the library service I am lucky enough to work in. This August, a few of our libraries had a mini-festival with the theme of Space. It included the children’s illustrator Nick Sharratt, the author Kate Pankhurst, actual meteorites and samples from the Moon’s surface, a talk on space from the local university and free talks from the local science laboratory. The whole thing was utterly fantastic with some seriously engaged children and adults and, I think, a few people’s future career choices being changed.

The things that gave me most pride and satisfaction though is this – it took more than year to organise and it was free. Nick Sharratt took two years and the Borrow the Moon resources took 18 months. Oh, and every part of it was free for the public. Oh, and this was just a part of the Summer Reading Challenge events which led me to go from animal handling in the morning to fun science in the afternoon to a space lecture in the evening is, to be honest, quite amazing enough without seeing all the children come in for their stickers and medals and seeing the library staff encourage each one.

I take immense pride and satisfaction in my job promoting the library service and buying the children’s books for the borough. Seeing the joy of a child who sees a book they want to borrow and knowing that you’re the one who ordered it in the first place never gets old. And promoting such a wonderful thing as a library service, where one gets books for free, means going to work is normally not a chore. But this was something else. People were asking me what we were going to do to top this next time around. And the thing is, I don’t know. But it excites me. Let’s find out.

Changes by local authority

• Argyll and Bute – Threatened closures withdrawn
• Coventry – Customer services moves into Central Library
• Devon – New children’s library in Exeter
• Moray – Keith Library hours may be cut
• Wandsworth – Chislehurst Library refurbished

National news

• £450,000 fund to spark innovation across Scotland’s public libraries – North Edinburgh News. “The annual Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF) awards grants to projects which align with the vision set out in Forward: Scotland’s Public Library Strategy 2021-2025, with the strategic aims grouped under the themes of ‘People’, ‘Place’ and ‘Partnership’.”

• ‘Better than a bag of gold’: Know Your Neighbourhood Fund extended for a year – Libraries Connected. “The Know Your Neighbourhood Fund was scheduled to run until March 2025. It has now been extended until March 2026 with an additional up to £4.5 million of government funding. Of the up to £4.5 million, Arts Council England will deliver up to £1.5 million, Historic England will deliver up to £250,000, and UK Community Foundations (UKCF), in partnership with community foundations, will deliver up to £2.6 million.” … focusing on loneliness, increasing volunteering, reducing loneliness stigma and build social cohesion in targeted high-deprivation local authorities.
• Desert Island Discs – BBC Sounds. Postcards. “Val McDermid on her childhood love of libraries”
• Ed Jewell reflects on one year as Libraries Connected President – Libraries Connected. “Funding has never been far from the surface in many of the conversations I have had, whether with colleagues on an individual level, in Support Hub meetings or with directors and portfolio holders.”
• Intellectual freedom leader to fight effects of censorship – Arts Professional. ” (CILIP) has named Dr David McMenemy the inaugural chair of a new Intellectual Freedom Committee as part of its work to help library professionals “counter the disturbing effect of censorship”. The committee will shape and lead an evidence-informed programme that promotes a “strong ethical framework” across the sector, ensuring every citizen is “informed by a wide range of trustworthy information and empowered to use it as they see fit”.”
• The lamentable decline of reading – Financial Times. ” an extensive US study found that just 16 per cent of people spent any leisure time reading during an average day, down from 28 per cent two decades ago” … “In the UK the Publishers Association reported an encouraging picture for the consumer market last year with a 5 per cent increase in revenues and books sold” … “Attractive and engaging public libraries are essential too, to maintain a healthy level of reading among people of all ages who cannot afford or do not want to buy their own books.”
• Roll for Adventure: Tabletop Role-Playing Adventures for Your School or Public Library – Facet Publishing. “For librarians, teachers, school staff and parents who want to run a tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) but don’t know where to begin, this practical guide includes five tabletop role-playing adventures written so that a first-time Game Master can jump straight in and start playing. “

International news

• Global Collaboration Key to Future of Libraries, Say IFLA Leaders During Visit to Kazakhstan – Astana Times. IFLA visits quasi-democracy and says ““One of the legacies we look for in coming to a country is the long-term benefit for the profession, the community and society (…) In Kazakhstan, the congress has helped build excitement around a national strategy for libraries,” said McDonald.” … “The 89th World Library and Information Congress of the IFLA is taking place in Astana on Aug. 18-22, marking the first time Central Asia has hosted the world’s largest gathering of library and information professionals. Nearly 1,700 participants from 114 countries are attending, including national library directors, researchers, educators, students, and publishing representatives.”
• Australia – Libraries a secret weapon against ignorance and isolation – Flinders University. “Beyond the Books celebrates the dynamic relationship between the State Library of South Australia – recently ranked the second most “beautiful” library in the world – and its citizens, their identity and way of life. Despite the initial focus on South Australia, it’s a story that will resonate across Australia and its many cultural bodies.”
• Canada – Can libraries stop AI slop from flooding their shelves? – CBC. “AI slop is everywhere – and now it’s hitting libraries. AI-generated books are slipping into library catalogues and even landing on physical shelves. Some are so polished that even librarians are fooled. We hear from journalist Emanuel Maiberg on how this industry is exploding, and from Laura Winton, Vice-Chair of the Canadian Federation of Library Associations, and Jennie Rose Halperin, executive director of Library Futures, on how this could erode trust in libraries – and what readers need to look for.”
• China – History of Chinese libraries, from huge palace collections to public spaces of learning – South China Morning Post. “For the first time in Chinese history, libraries were designed not just as imperial treasuries or a gentleman’s prize collection, but as a public institution. I have greatly benefited from this public institution. I am still an avid reader with a wide and eclectic range of interests, though I frequent bookstores instead of public libraries.”
• Saudia Arabia – Libraries Commission Partners with Riyadh Municipality to Launch Cultural House Initiative – Saudi Press Agency. “The Cultural House is a modern, multi-purpose library designed to serve diverse community needs. Situated within the Riyadh Oases, it features a library, dedicated spaces for adults and children, shared workspaces, a technology lab, a café, and open courtyards for hosting artistic and cultural events.”
• USA – Christian Nationalists in this town don’t want people to read certain library books – so they’re stealing them – Americans United. “Leaders of the Reformation Church of Shelbyville say what they’re doing is civil disobedience. In fact, the technical term for it is “stealing” … “They’ve also assailed drag queen events at a local tavern (that has since closed) and tried to shut down a Halloween-themed event sponsored by the local chamber of commerce, where attendees dress as witches to raise money for local charitable causes.”
  • PEN to Put $1.4m Grant Toward Public Libraries – Publishers Weekly. “The Mellon Foundation has awarded PEN America $1.4 million to support its efforts defending the freedom to read. In an announcement August 15, PEN said that the money will be used to support public libraries and librarians, who are “facing escalating threats to their work, safety and core mission.””

Local news by authority

• Argyll and Bute – Argyll and Bute library closure plan sparks local fury – Herald. Partial paywall. “Controversial plans to close four libraries in Argyll and Bute were pushed through without proper consultation, sparking a furious local backlash and accusations of operating “in the shadows”.”
  • Plan to permanently close four libraries scrapped – BBC. “The sites in Cardross, Tarbert, Tiree and Rosneath were under threat after being omitted from operator Live Argyll’s business plan for 2025 to 2027. But Argyll and Bute Council said it had been advised by the organisation that it no longer planned to shut any libraries.”
• Barnet – Back to school with Barnet libraries – Barnet Post.
• Birmingham – Birmingham’s residents back calls to turn a page on library funding – new study reveals – Birmingham World. “Better Libraries reveals overwhelming public support for greater investment in libraries across the UK, with particularly strong backing in Birmingham. The charity social enterprise found that Birmingham has one of the strongest levels of support for libraries in the UK, with 78% of residents wanting more funding to secure their role in communities.” … ” libraries in Birmingham are delivering real value, from saving users an average of £1,472 a year to helping people find jobs, start side hustles, and combat loneliness. The survey also showed that 1 in 3 Brits (34%) say having a nearby library makes a neighbourhood more appealing, beating traditional favourites like local schools (28%) and coming just behind parks (51%) and low crime (50%).”

“In fact, libraries are now viewed as nearly as essential as green spaces and safety, signalling a shift in what people value in their communities. Libraries are also seen as the most valuable free community resource (43%), behind only parks or public green spaces (54%).”

• Bridgend – Award-winning 21 Book Challenge Returns to Awen Libraries – Awen Libraries (media release). “Awen Libraries is set to spark the joy of reading with the return of the award-winning 21 Book Challenge, designed specifically for adults. Over 600 people signed up for the inaugural challenge last year, more than double the numbers anticipated.” … “Using a 21 Book Challenge bingo-style sheet, participants can record their progress and collect prizes including bespoke pens, bookmarks, tote bags and reading lights after completing 7, 14 and 21 books.”
• Brighton and Hove – Moulsecoomb Library ‘stench’ due to toilet roll shortage – Argus. “As of Tuesday (August 19) there had not been any toilet paper for two days.” … “It is incredibly frustrating as it makes no sense. If the staff at Jubilee Library were denied toilet paper they would stop working.””
• Caerphilly – Caerphilly library closures ‘on pause’ after challenge – South Wales Argus. “Plans to close libraries in Caerphilly County Borough are “on pause” pending a “last-minute legal challenge”.” … “A solicitor at the law firm handling the judicial review request has praised campaigners’ “dogged determination” to save “such important community assets”. The council’s leader called news of the challenge “disappointing” and threatened other service areas could face cuts as a consequence.” see also Library closures on hold amid legal challenge – BBC.
• Cornwall – Theatre celebrates planting of 1.6 million trees – BBC. ” about 7,500 young people in the county have signed up for the Story Garden-themed Summer Reading Challenge 2025.”
• Coventry – Council Customer Service Centre to move to Central Library – Council.
  • Coventry Holbrooks Library relocating and will have ‘improved facilities’ – Coventry Live. “Holbrooks Library in Coventry will soon be closing for good. It is relocating from Holbrook Lane to Everdon Road. Coventry City Council confirmed to CoventryLive that Holbrooks Library will be based at the Dementia Partnership Hub. It will be closing on Holbrook Lane on August 28.”
• Darlington – New bags of books added to Darlington libraries to support SEND children – Northern Echo. “Each bag contains five books that explore emotions, offer sensory experiences, or are recommended for neurodivergent children. The bags also include information and links to further support.”
• Derby – Local author talks back for a sequel – Marketing Derby. “The festival has once again teamed up with the Society of Authors, Derby Libraries and Derbyshire Library Service to organise a second series of talks by local authors in libraries across the city and county.”
• Devon – Lego fans invited to Barnstaple Library for robotics and coding workshop – North Devon Today. “funded through the Library Improvement Fund”
  • Author Veronica Henry announced as new patron for library charity – Dawlish Today. “Author of more than twenty-five novels, including the much-loved Beach Hut series, Veronica brings a deep personal connection to libraries and a lifelong love of stories.” … “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Veronica as a patron’, said Alex Kittow, Chief Executive at Libraries Unlimited.”
  • Footfall at Teignbridge libraries revealed – Dawlish Gazette. Spreadsheet with data for all libraries.
  • More than 100 children sign up to book challenge – BBC. “Buckfastleigh Library, in Devon, said the Book Quest challenge required children to complete three tasks – read as often as possible for at least 10 minutes, visit a library, and take part in a sea-themed activity.”
  • Transformed children’s library opens in Exeter – Council. “Exeter’s new children’s library opened to the public this week and it includes a new dedicated sensory space to support children with ADHD, autism, and sensory processing disorders. The Clore Children’s Library, unveiled by Libraries Unlimited who run Devon’s libraries on our behalf, has been designed to be a welcoming and accessible space for all children and families. The sensory space, which includes a floating mezzanine and activities for older children, was created in collaboration with specialists Aurora.”
• East Riding – Bridlington North Library to close for major refurbishment – Gazette and Herald. “The closure, which begins on September 1, will see the library undergo a full ground floor refurbishment with £250,000 in taxpayer funding from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Libraries Improvement Fund alongside additional funding allocated by the council.”
• Enfield – Row over library mural as hundreds sign petition – Enfield Dispatch. “Tory councillor says Enfield Town Library mural needs planning permission and is a waste of money when libraries are being closed”
• Essex – Clacton Library redevelopment gets the green light – Tendry District Council. “Planning permission has been granted for the redevelopment of Clacton Library, paving the way for the creation of a new, multi-purpose community space. The redevelopment will bring together reading, learning and essential services under one roof. A new multi-storey building will be built on the existing library site. It will include: local registration services; a modern library; a centre for Adult Community Learning (ACL)”
  • New pictures show what Colchester Library will look like when it reopens – Gazette Standard. “New pictures show what Colchester Library could look like after its £450,000 facelift. A project to improve the library began last September when it closed for a year-long revamp.”
• Glasgow – Glasgow Life poised to appoint Director for Libraries, Sport and Community Engagement – Herald Scotland. Vacancy for post paying £102,894 and £116,854 and a deadline of 28 September 2025.
• Haringey – Haringey Council consultation on future of its 9 libraries – Ham and High. “The council is encouraging residents to complete online surveys to help develop its new library service strategy, saying it wants to know “what you like about your libraries, how you think they can improve, and what is currently missing from them” … “Among the comments on the library user survey submitted so far, residents mentioned the delayed reopening of Muswell Hill Library, which has been closed for two and a half years, the need for longer opening hours, especially in the evenings, and wanting more events.”
• Leeds – Leeds libraries overhaul IT systems to cut login times and save £65k a year – Yorkshire Evening Post. Computers to run Chrome.
• Moray – Proposed cuts to Keith Library hours see users sign protest petition – Grampian Online. “Townsfolk are signing a petition against moves to slash Keith Library’s opening hours. Upset residents are now urging others to add their names to the document before it’s handed over to Moray Council.”
• Newham – What next for Newham’s libraries – Council. “Residents are being asked to share their views through a ten-part questionnaire, available online or in libraries, on how they want the service to develop in the future.”
• North Lincolnshire – North Lincolnshire Council champions Summer Reading Challenge – Council. Story Garden. “over 900 children participating by early August”
• North Somerset – Weston-super-Mare MP launches campaign to save Worle Library – Weston Mercury. “North Somerset Council looks to cut library spending by a fifth.  Mr Aldridge MP said it is vital that Worle does not become the next community to lose its library. Worle Library was visited 22,000 times in 2024/25. However, following the discovery of wet rot and damp in February the council said it cannot afford the significant costs required to repair and maintain the building.  “
• Orkney – Library launches new Orkney Flora Trail – Council. “Orkney Library and Archive’s Interactive Orcadian Flora Trail explores local wildflowers and habitats, through planters, poetry recordings in local dialect, and more. A series of raised planters describes a range of habitats – coastal, meadow, woodland, moorland, roadside – and the specific types of wildflowers typically found there. The wheelchair-friendly planters were made by staff and service users at the Council’s St Colms facility which works with folks with learning disabilities to develop employability and skills development opportunities.”
• South Ayrshire – South Ayrshire Council awarded Green Libraries Grant – Ayrshire Today. CILIPS Scotland grant “The council’s Libraries, Art and Culture service will use the £2,000 fund to create a sustainable living and literacy programme, dubbed ‘One Small Thing’.”
• Suffolk – Best selling author and creator of Vera to visit Southwold – EADT. Ann Cleeves.
  • Pantomime dame hits out at council’s ‘attack’ after library storytime events cancelled – Independent. “Mama G, who is an LGBTQ+ campaigner and a former Britain’s Got Talent contestant, said she was devastated when she received the news her performances in Suffolk libraries this summer have been postponed after seven years of storytelling there.”
• Sussex – Chichester’s Pesky Rat hits the road on libraries tour – Sussex Express.
• Trafford – Work to transform Sale Library set to begin soon – About Manchester. “Work to transform Sale Library into a state-of-the-art facility is set to begin soon.The library and foyer area on the ground floor of Sale Waterside will be given a fabulous fresh new look and exciting new features – including a permanent exhibition space for the Cosgrove Hall Films Archive. Residents were able to share their thoughts at our public consultation event in June and feedback has played a key role in shaping the final design and décor of the new space.”
• Wandsworth – Chislehurst Library reopens after major refurbishment – This is Local London. “Chislehurst Library will reopen following the completion of refurbishment work as the fifth library to re-open as part of the £11m initiative to modernise libraries across the borough. Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, Yvonne Bear, said: “This is literally an investment in our future which also minimises maintenance costs going forward.”
• Warwickshire – Support your wellbeing and your community through helping others – Council. Volunteering.
  • The Discovery Den: Sensory Mobile Library – Council. “The Discovery Den: Sensory Mobile Library will be the UK’s first mobile sensory public library. A fully equipped, accessible, environmentally friendly, electric vehicle housing a small interactive sensory space for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Expected to be in operation from early 2026, the vehicle will visit a selection of schools and community locations across Warwickshire offering sensory space for small group use, a custom book selection and sensory equipment for loan.”
• West Dunbartonshire – Clydebank residents encouraged to use mobile library – Clydebank Post. “Councillor Lauren Oxley is reminding people about the valuable service, which will return to the streets this week after a brief break for maintenance work.”
• Westmorland and Furness – Libraries encourage children to complete the Summer Reading Challenge in its final weeks – Council. “So far, a total of 1,740 children have taken on the challenge to read six books this Summer, and it is still not too late to join in. “
• Worcestershire – Tenbury Library to open for longer under new scheme – Ludlow Advertiser. “Tenbury Library will operate under the Libraries Unlocked initiative from next week, allowing members aged 15 and over to access the library from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday.”
• York – NHS Health Check Kiosks open at 3 York Explore libraries – Press. “HS Health Check Kiosks at our Explore Centres in York, Clifton and Tang Hall. With over half a million visits to these three Explore Centres each year, our accessible settings make us a perfect partner for the kiosk service.”

Editorial

The first publicised action of the Suffolk Council, after it took back control of its libraries services from the non-profit Suffolk Libraries, is to “postpone” Mama G events this Summer, citing security concerns. This is not something that the non-profit would likely have done itself, after all it was probably the one that booked Mama G in the first place, and it was well known for being forthright and imaginative in its programming. Not so Suffolk Council who appear to be giving in to Far Right thugs.

Caerphilly, on the other hand, appears to prefer putting its money into reserves rather than keep running ten libraries. It hopes that some non-profits can run some of them. The union and others are not impressed, claiming it’s a move back to Victorian times. On the other other hand, there appears to be good news investment wise for Staffordshire Libraries, whose council appears to prefer keeping its libraries open.

Finally, I loved the news from Richmond about a fox being found in the library, apparently lounging in one of the chairs. Now there’s a good image for the “Story Garden” Summer Reading Challenge.

Changes by local authority

• Ceredigion – Overall opening hours cut of 10 hours, some reductions and others increase.
• York – £390k refurbishment for Acomb Library.

National news

• Banned Book Week UK to return in October 2025 after hiatus – BookSeller. “, a “week to celebrate the books that have been challenged, removed or silenced, and to stand with the people who write, sell and share them”, will return from 5th to 11th October 2025 after a hiatus since the pandemic. “
• CILIP supports national year of reading – CILIP. “CILIP is looking forward to being part of the government’s National Year of Reading 2026, launched earlier this month at 10 Downing Street by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson. The campaign aims to revive reading for pleasure across the country and strengthen children’s literacy and life chances.”
• Great British Energy to cut energy bills for community facilities – Gov.uk. “Libraries, fire stations and care homes in local communities will benefit from cheaper energy bills through Great British Energy community funding as part of Plan for Change” … “awarded mayoral authorities a share of £10 million in grant funding to roll out clean energy projects at the centre of communities – including rooftop solar on Merseyside care homes and on leisure centres and libraries in Yorkshire”
• Green Libraries Week 2025: Libraries across the UK Sow the Seed of Climate Action – CILIP. “Running from Monday 27 October to Sunday 2 November, the theme for this year’s national campaign is ‘Seeds of Change – Make a Difference with Your Library’. The spotlight for 2025 is on encouraging libraries at all stages in their sustainability journey to celebrate their climate action – no matter how big or small.”
• How Tom Gates got a child with vision impairment hooked on the Summer Reading Challenge – Reading Agency. “n partnership with The Reading Agency, The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is encouraging children with vision impairments to get their reading vibes on this summer and take part in the challenge using books in large print, audio and braille from RNIB’s online library.”
• It’s Back. Summer Reading Challenge 2025 – GLL / Better.  Bromley, Dudley, Greenwich, Lincolnshire and Wandsworth are all doing Story Garden.
• Making the case for VR in libraries – Arts Professional. “Gemma Greig-Kicks from The Space, illustrates how a new digital project is opening doors to new audiences and possibilities.” … “bringing a range of digital experiences to library audiences in Bradford, Cambridgeshire, Coventry, Leeds, Manchester, Newham, Nottinghamshire, Somerset and Sunderland.” … “. The vast majority of library services reported fresh faces through their doors – a genuine marker of success.”
• Rediscovering libraries: new insights on engaging non-users – DCMS Libraries. “The findings from this report commissioned by DCMS offer a wealth of insights for libraries seeking to re-engage non-users. By understanding the barriers that prevent people from using libraries, the services that could attract them back, and the distinct segments of non-users, libraries can develop targeted strategies for increasing engagement. As libraries continue to evolve in the digital age, these insights will be crucial in ensuring they remain vital community resources for years to come.”
• Starting LGBTQIA+ Conversations at the Library – Popnolly. A guide to displays and other promotions.
• What Factors Influence a Culture of Reading? – Library Stuff. ” Last week the DfE announced the National Year of Reading 2026 … ” – looks at what is needed.

International news

• Czechia – Summer Library under the Negrelli Viaduct in Karlín: A Space for Stories, Games and Creativity – Prague Daily. “Prague City Library has opened a temporary summer branch in one of the restored arches of the Negrelli Viaduct in Karlín – with a very special concept. Until 28 August 2025, the viaduct arch will be transformed into a miniature world for fans of fantasy, sci-fi and comics. In addition to thematically curated literature, there will be board games, role-playing games (RPGs), and creative hands-on activities.”
• South Korea – Seoul’s outdoor libraries draw 1 mil. visitors in 3 months, exceeding expectations – Korea Times. “Since its debut in 2022 as a public initiative to promote outdoor reading and cultural activities, the Seoul Outdoor Library has attracted more than 6 million visitors. The open-air libraries will halt operations during peak summer heat in July and August, with the second-half run set to resume on Sept. 5. User satisfaction with this year’s outdoor libraries reached an all-time high of 96.6 percent, up 5.3 percentage points from the previous year. The same percentage of visitors said they would revisit.”
• USA – Building presidential libraries shouldn’t be a ruse for funneling bribes – Freedom of the Press Foundation. “President Donald Trump’s presidential library has already received nearly half a billion dollars in known donations. This is a staggering figure considering a library may never be built. This begs the question, is Trump using the ruse of building a library as a vehicle for funneling bribes? If so, then a new bill introduced by Sen. Elizabeth Warren would help put a stop to the corruption and make presidential foundations more transparent.”
  • Kentucky – Challenges to materials at Kentucky libraries rose 1000% last year – but mostly in two counties – WKMS. ” local librarians tied many of the complaints to the Daviess County Citizens 4 Decency. The group has also, in recent years, testified to local government in efforts to stop drag performances from being put on in local venues and advocated generally for conservative Christian values.”
  • Massachusetts – Library cuts across Massachusetts deepen digital divide – Digwatch. “t has already lost access to 30 of 34 databases it once offered. Resources such as newspaper archives, literacy support for the blind and incarcerated, and citizenship classes have also been cancelled due to a $3.6 million shortfall.”

Local news by authority

• Blackpool – Sustainable health to be showcased in Blackpool libraries – Council. “Blackpool Council, in partnership with United Utilities and Better Start Blackpool, will host events at Langdale, Layton, Central and Revoe libraries. The events will feature free product giveaways and expert advice on dental health and early years care.”
• Bolton – Bolton Library to stage free dementia friendly film screenings – Bolton News.
  • Bolton Central Library wins prestigious Regeneration and Conservation Award – Council. “Bolton Council is proud to announce that Bolton Central Library has won the Regeneration and Conservation Award at the North West Regional Construction Awards 2025.” … “The judges described it as a brilliant project that has shown demonstrable impact within the local community whilst maintaining and returning the building to its former glory; and were thoroughly impressed that the project was able to be completed whilst the library stayed live.”
• Brighton and Hove – Share your views on the future of our libraries – Council. “The proposed changes to library services in Brighton & Hove include: Reducing the opening hours of Hove Library by 2 hours on Wednesday evenings and by 3 hours on Saturday afternoons; Closing Hollingbury, Rottingdean and Westdene libraries; Reducing the opening hours of Jubilee Library by 2 hours on Monday evenings and by 3 hours on Sunday afternoons”
  • ‘Library closing would be great loss for village’ – BBC. Rottingdean: “Ms Harris said she would feel “very deprived” if the library closed as it was “very accessible to me for my disability”. “I have two young children and we use it regularly,” she said.” … “A petition set up by locals calling for the library to remain open has received more than 3,000 signatures.”
• Caerphilly – Caerphilly libraries heading for closure may be saved – South Wales Argus. “Community and childcare groups could offer a lifeline to most of Caerphilly County Borough Council’s at-risk libraries, the local authority has said.” … “The council plans to shut down ten of its smaller libraries at the end of August as part of cost-cutting plans to make the service “sustainable and resilient”. The local authority will instead “focus resources on an improved offer at seven library ‘hubs’”” … “Committee members heard there is local interest in Community Asset Transfers of the council libraries in Aberbargoed, Abertridwr, Llanbradach and Nelson.”
  • ‘Disbelief’ ten libraries to close amid £5m ‘spare’ in council budget – South Wales Argus. “Caerphilly Trades Union said there is “disbelief” unspent cash has been funnelled into council reserves rather than used to keep libraries open.”
  • Library closure critic warns plans hark back to ‘Victorian times’ – South Wales Argus. “a series of imminent closures risks sending parts of the borough “back to Victorian times”, a critic has warned.”
  • Residents urged to join march to save area’s libraries – South Wales Argus. “ouncil workers will be among those who will be protesting, according to Unison. It is hoped youngsters will join the march dressed as characters from books, films or comics.”
• Cambridgeshire – Nurture your children’s imagination with the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge – Council. Story Garden.
• Ceredigion – Welsh county is shaking up its library service after budget cuts and it’s far from the only one – Wales Online. “Library service opening hours are set to be cut at some branches in Ceredigion, but no closures are anticipated and Aberaeron’s new facility at Penmorfa is set to enjoy an extension of around four hours.” … “The changes will bring about an overall combined reduction in opening hours of one hour bringing the total hours of provision across the four main libraries from 165.5 hours down to 164.5 hours per week.””
• Cheshire East – Esther McVey: ‘Cheshire East has priorities completely wrong’ – Northwich Guardian. “Council says it needs to make cuts to local services to balance its books, so why has it then chosen to spend nearly £2.4 million on three interim positions? ” … “We must remember these are all choices. Cheshire East is choosing to waste additional money on staffing bills. It is choosing to cut services like libraries and waste recycling centres.”
• Darlington – Darlington town centre to host free library takeover event – Northern Echo. “The Library Takeover event will take place on Wednesday, July 30, from 11am to 4pm and will feature live storytelling, performances, and a full day of free entertainment.”
• East Riding – Library reopens its doors after refurbishment – BBC. “Bridlington Central Library, in King Street, welcomed the public again on Monday for the first time since March. The ground-floor refurbishment includes new lighting, shelving and furniture, as well as a new junior library with a sensory area and a pirate ship bookshelf.”
• Essex – Fears local libraries will be closed down after Essex County Council scrapped – Essex Live. “Essex County Council has said local government reorganisation in Essex poses an “exciting opportunity for libraries” despite concerns that they could be closed down to save money. Campaign group Save Our Libraries Essex (SOLE), which successfully fought to stop the closures of branch libraries across Essex five years ago, warns that libraries could be seen as “easy targets” for cost-saving after the new system starts in 2028.”
• Gloucestershire – Gloucestershire families urged to join the Library Challenge this summer – Forest of Dean Review.
• Inverclyde – Libraries across Inverclyde are keeping little ones busy this summer with crafts – Greenock Telegraph.
• Kent – Kent chief orders staff to ‘remain apolitical’ – Local Government Chronicle. Paywall. “Kent CC chief executive Amanda Beer has instructed council officers to “remain apolitical” amid controversy over a proposed transgender book ban. In an email to staff, seen by LGC, Ms Beer called for “professionalism” as it is “the greatest strength” council officers have and advised…”
• Knowsley – Grow Your Imagination with the Story Garden Summer Reading Challenge – Council.
• Lewisham – Black British Book Festival have a library of solutions – Voice. “As public libraries across the UK face devastating cuts and closures, the Black British Book Festival (BBBF) is taking decisive cultural action to protect literacy, preserve access, and reimagine what a public reading space can look like. In partnership with Dell Technologies and with books donated by Pan Macmillan, BBBF will launch a landmark Black Book Community Library at Sydenham Library in Lewisham on July 26. “
• Lincolnshire – A million books and counting: Imagination Library transforms young lives in North Lincolnshire – North Lincolnshire Council. “Funded by North Lincolnshire Council, the Imagination Library means every child in the area can receive a free, high-quality book in the post every month from birth until their fifth birthday.”
• Manchester – Oasis Week at Manchester Central Library starts today – check out the Masterplan! – Council. ” the library has put together its own Masterplan of Oasis-themed programming, which is packed with live performances from Rock’n’Roll Stars, Supersonic film screenings, Liam’n’Noel look-a-like competitions, a head-shrinking Big Oasis Quiz, and much more. “
• Newcastle – I visited a dementia reading group and it’s changed how I think about the illness we’re all scared of – Chronicle. “For me, watching loved ones with the condition has made it something incredibly scary. But, not to downplay the devastating consequences it can have, my visit to a reading for dementia group at Newcastle City Library has forced me to re-evaluate.”
• Norfolk – Investigations ongoing after paint fight breaks out at library – Eastern Daily Press. “Two men were in an altercation outside Thetford Library, with a tin of paint being thrown near the entrance to the public building on Wednesday afternoon.”
• North Northamptonshire – North Northamptonshire libraries offer support for residents to connect to NHS App – Council. “Residents can drop into a local library and ask for support with the NHS App, or contact their local library in advance, via telephone or email.”
  • Picture special of £6.8m Kettering Library Cornerstone roof project – we look under the huge temporary tent – Northants Telegraph.
  • Tent installed for year-long library roof repairs – BBC. “Scaffolding and a temporary tent have been installed for work to replace the roof on a Grade II listed library building. The roof of Kettering Library and Art Gallery in Northamptonshire was damaged during heavy rain in 2023.”
• Nottingham – Update on Sherwood Library: Statement from Council Leader Councillor Neghat Khan – Council. ” I share the frustration of local people who want and deserve their library to be open. Residents have waited far too long, and I completely understand why hundreds have signed the petition calling for answers and action.” … ” we are now actively considering all legal options available to us” see also Temporary library could open in Sherwood amid delays to new facilities – Notts TV.
• Oxfordshire – Libraries to trial new pop-up bank branches – BBC. “Group to provide Community Banking Support. The service is due to end later this week, but similar plans are now being made for other libraries in Oxfordshire, as well as council offices.”
• Pembrokeshire – Pembrokeshire Libraries, Bug Farm join forces for reading challenge – Tenby Today. Story Garden. “the Bug Farm has generously provided 32 golden tickets.”
• Richmond – London library forced to briefly close after fox ‘made itself comfortable’ inside – Standard. “Twickenham Library staff were surprised to find the curious animal cuddled up on a chair inside the building on Tuesday.”

• Somerset – Public libraries to offer patients interactive rehab – Wellington Today. “Somerset NHS Foundation Trust has teamed up with Somerset Council’s public libraries to offer patients access to a new interactive projector that projects games onto the floor, with the purpose of getting people moving about.”
• Southend – Southend Libraries invites families to take part in this summer’s free ‘Story Garden’ Reading Challenge – Council.
• Staffordshire – Community managed library receives £16,380 of National Lottery funding for creative adult wellbeing activities – Council. “Local volunteers at Holmcroft Community Managed Library in Stafford are celebrating after being awarded just over £16,000 in National Lottery funding. The funding will be used to set up a Creative Wellbeing Café for adults with the aim of improving their mental health and wellbeing through social and creativity activities. Friends of Holmcroft Library will use the money to run a two-year programme of regular weekly creative sessions facilitated by local artists.”
  • Families invited to meet Dr Dolittle through a story adventure at county libraries – Council. 35-minute story.
  • Find your top summer reads for free at Staffordshire Libraries – Council. “Staffordshire’s libraries are sharing their top book recommendations for the summer months and holiday getaways. Amongst their top picks are the ever-popular crime and thriller genres, which dominated the list of the most borrowed books for adults last year.  “
  • Library part of £5m modernisation project – BBC. ” Wombourne Library will be one of 10 larger libraries in the region to undergo extensive work in the next few years.” … “as  well as Wombourne, nine other libraries run directly by Staffordshire County Council, including Leek, Stone, Biddulph, Perton, Kidsgrove, Burntwood, Rugeley, Uttoxeter and Cannock, are in line for future investment.”
• Suffolk – Britain’s Got Talent Mama G has libraries events postponed – Bury Mercury. “A pride-positive pantomime performer says she feels “censored” as her upcoming shows at libraries have been postponed due to concerns of protests” … “However, she has now been told that by Suffolk Community Libraries – which are run by Suffolk County Council – that the events will be postponed until a risk assessment is carried out amid negative reactions and protests to similar events across the country.” … “A spokesman from Suffolk County Council referenced recent protests at libraries and children’s centres in Dundee, Reading, Cardiff, Bristol and North Walsham.”

“By cancelling this event, you’re only allowing the far-right to believe that their views are correct. “It’s definitely part of a momentum to the right in this country at the moment, and it this is definitely politically and economically driven.” Mama G

• Mystery artist back with new library exhibition – BBC. “The artist, known only as ‘The Hat’, gained popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic when various coronavirus-inspired works were left at locations across Suffolk.”
• Wandsworth – Balham Library’s dementia-friendly café celebrate their second anniversary – Council. “Members of the Forget-Me-Not group in Balham Library celebrated two years of dementia-friendly support in the community.”
  • July cabinet meeting update: libraries, events in parks, and the Winstanley Neighbourhood Regeneration – Council. “At a time when many councils are scaling back, Wandsworth is investing in its 11 libraries as vital community hubs … Over the next year, exciting plans include trialling longer opening hours, refurbishing the children’s libraries at Balham and Battersea Park, upgrading IT facilities across all libraries, reviewing study spaces, and introducing extra initiatives such as Maths and English tutoring, basic digital skills training and wireless printing. “
  • Wandsworth is changing the way its 11 libraries are used – Radio Jackie. “The authority is investing money into turning them into community hubs via its 5 year Libraries First! plan.”
• Wiltshire – Scrumptious! show to visit Wiltshire libraries this summer – Salisbury Journal. “The show was developed through collaboration with community groups in the North West, and explores childhood memories of trips to the seaside, sweets, ice cream, grandparents, hot summers, favourite places and making friends.”
• York – £390k boost for Acomb Explore library – Council. “The plans have been developed in response to direct feedback from local residents and have been funded in part by £100,000 from the council’s Future Libraries Investment Fund (£100k).”

Editorial

There’s not many inevitabilities in this world but one thing we could all easily have bet on two months ago – if any bookmaker was silly enough to take our money – was that the new Reform-led councils would start interfering in public library stock. Well, it’s started. Kent’s libraries have been instructed to keep Trans books away from easy sight of children. This doesn’t just mean not having any books covering Trans topics in children’s library but also on the way to the children’s library. The library staff have to meekly obey such orders. After all, it’s either that or be out of a job and, to be honest, I’d do the same thing.

The slightly farcical nature of this first Reform foray into librarianship will not be the last. The USA teaches us where this will end, in censorship of any subjects that the controlling politicians’ ideology disagrees with. The only thing that will stop it is not librarians or CILIP, who have no real power, but chief executives (possibly) and central government. Hmm, that doesn’t fill me with confidence. The real test will be what comes next. So far the score is Hate/Fear 1 Freedom of Libraries 0.

Changes by local authority

• Bromley – Refurbished West Wickham Library reopens.

National news

• 21 Library Services Selected to Lead National Expansion of Summer Reading Challenge  – Reading Agency. “The Reading Agency has today announced that 21 library authorities across the UK have been selected as the first recipients of funding from a transformative £1.5 million grant from the Julia Rausing Trust. This funding will support the expansion of the Summer Reading Challenge – the UK’s largest programme promoting reading for pleasure among children. In 2025, working together, the partners have the ambition to reach an additional 50,000 children. “

“To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what assessment she has made with Cabinet colleagues of the potential impact of closures of (a) libraries and (b) other cultural spaces on the availability of early years services.” Gareth Snell Labour/Co-operative, Stoke-on-Trent Central. Answer includes “The Secretary of State has a statutory power to intervene by way of local inquiry if she considers that a local authority is not providing a comprehensive and efficient library service. She takes this role very seriously and should a complaint be received, Ministers will challenge the local council and carefully consider evidence before deciding if a local inquiry is needed.” [And then will decide it’s fine and no inquiry is needed – Ed.]

• Book banning in the UK – will US influence succeed in removing LGBTQ+ books from our libraries? – Boar. [The answer is almost certainly yes – Ed.]. “While it is not occurring on the same scale, the efforts of organisations in the US are undeniably affecting attitudes towards censorship in the UK, with more and more parents requesting the removal of books from school libraries due to the representation of LGBTQ people and stories. Though a common excuse for this is to ‘protect’ young people from being ‘exposed’ to the LGBTQ community, this censorship could be extremely harmful to the very people it claims to shelter. If this removal of content from school libraries continues, thousands of young people, many of whom find themselves at a crucial time in their life in understanding their identity, could be deprived of books and resources that could be instrumental in helping them discover and accept who they are.”
• Counter-terror officer took secret call in public library with no headphones – Telegraph. Paywall. Officer said his home was not noisy [! – Ed.] so “was fired after taking a top-secret call in a public library with no headphones has won almost £22,000 in compensation…”
• Deprofessionalisation of Public Librarianship: What role do qualified Librarians have in the 21st century Public Libraries sector? – University of Sheffield. Dissertation survey that your filling in would be very appreciated by the student in question. Ideally aimed at Library Managers/Librarians/Heads of Library Service in Public Libraries.
• DfE to pilot ‘lending libraries’ of tech to support SEND schoolchildren – UK Authority. Unclear where these will be bit in “32 local authority areas.”

“The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology is improving community access to media literacy through the Digital Inclusion Action Plan, which supports local and community-led initiatives to boost digital participation. Libraries, as trusted and accessible public spaces, play a key role in delivering digital and media literacy support to communities across the UK.” Feryal Clark, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)

• Libraries sector in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 – DCMS Libraries. MBE for Julie Bell. Head of Cultural Services, Lancashire County. For services to public libraries. BEM for Charlotte Rebecca Clark. Manager, Southwold Library. For services to Literacy and to the community in Reydon and Southwold; Jason Tutin. Head, 100% Digital Leeds. For services to Digital Inclusion.
• Public libraries deserve to shut – they’ve forgotten why they exist – Spectator. Criticises “libraries are more than just books” slogan and belief that libraries usage decline is due to savage budget cuts. Blames librarians. Partial paywall.
• Queen Camilla laments library closures in visit to community hub – Wales Online. “Camilla told a group of librarians, figures from the city’s annual literary festival and leading writers that she “wished” more people would open such facilities as she officially launched Ratho Library in Newbridge.”
• The Spending Review ignored digital inclusion – here’s why that’s a huge mistake – Good Things Foundation. “To build a truly inclusive and prosperous nation, digital inclusion must be recognised as a core national infrastructure. We urge this government to swiftly rethink this oversight.”
• Why Libraries Should Invest in Visual Design – Katina Magazine. “visual designers can play a crucial role in how a library connects and communicates with its community.”

International news

• Finland – Finland shows highest library activity level in nearly 20 years – Chytomo. “It is interesting that after 59 northern municipalities joined Finland’s National Electronic Library, the service detected a thousand new user registrations every day.”
• USA – Large Public Libraries Give Young Adults Across U.S. Access to Banned Books – EdSurge. “Since 2022, thousands of eligible young adults have registered for a little-known program called Books Unbanned, which Brooklyn Public Library in New York created that year to counter efforts to restrict access to certain books.”
  • Anythink Libraries Unveils Immersive Poetry Experience in First-of-Its-Kind Library Metaverse Platform ‘Anythink World’ – Business Wire. “The Anythink World experience featuring Kerrie Joy, titled Unwritten, invites visitors into a virtual recreation of downtown Brighton’s Main Street. As users explore this immersive environment, they encounter key locations that reflect different stages of Joy’s life and creative development.”
  • The Case for the Children’s Library – AEI. “Libraries offer less stimulation than a tablet, but more meaning. They offer fewer bells and whistles, but a deeper sense of satisfaction. When I take my son to the library, I don’t just feel like I’m “doing something good” for him. I’m participating in a quiet, essential act of cultural preservation.”

Reform restricting Kent bookstock

• Angry backlash at Kent County Council’s ruling on trans literature – Kent Online. “LGBTQ+ rights campaigners have joined a chorus of outrage at a decision by Reform UK not to display trans literature in the children’s sections of Kent libraries. Steven Pullen, of Swale Pride CIC, claims the ruling by the leadership of Kent County Council (KCC), amounted to “censorship”.”
• Backlash as Reform claims trans books removed from children’s library section – BBC. “In a post on social media, Kent County Council’s Reform UK leader Linden Kemkaran said the books were to be removed with immediate effect in a “victory for common sense in Kent”. However, the council said a single transgender-related book aimed at adults was relocated from a display at the entrance of a library to a section unlikely to be visited by children. Labour MP for Chatham and Aylesford Tristian Osbourne has called the alleged removal of the books “unedifying gender baiting of the LGBT community”.” … “The book in question was The Autistic Trans Guide to Life by Yenn Purkis and Wenn Lawson, the council said.”

“Censorship does not stop people from learning information, but it does send the message, and it’s sending a message to the young people of Kent that they’re not safe and they’re not welcome if they’re LGBT or trans.” Erin Strawbridge, the manager of the Folkestone Bookshop, an LGBTQ+ bookstore

• Kent County Council, now led by Reform UK, removes all trans-related books from children’s sections of its libraries – Scene Mag.
• Reform backtrack on claim ‘trans-related’ library book was in children’s section – Independent. “A Reform-led council has backtracked on its “trans-related” library book ban, suggesting the move is “not a change of policy” after conflicting social media posts from councillors.” … “the council’s Liberal Democrat opposition leader, Antony Hook has said that Reform not following “proper process” in the council and announcing things on social media has created uncertainty.” … “The Kent Library Service confirmed that staff will “ensure that only age-appropriate books are being displayed in children’s sections of libraries” or areas where children will be selecting books to borrow” and Reform council claim ‘trans-related’ library book ban ‘not a change of policy’ – Standard and Reform council claim ‘trans-related’ library book ban ‘not a change of policy’ – Herald.

“We have not changed policy. We have simply issued internal instructions to reaffirm existing expectations: that adult books are not to be placed in areas specifically aimed at children, such as children’s sections or public welcome displays where children select books.” Kent Council

• Reform council bans trans books from children’s section of libraries – Times. Behind paywall. “Party hails move in Kent as protecting children from ‘potentially harmful ideology’ but Labour says it is ‘unedifying baiting of the LGBT community’”
• Reform council removes trans books from children’s section at libraries – Telegraph. Behind paywall.
• Reform councillor’s boast about removing ‘trans-ideological’ books from children’s library sections falls flat – Guardian. “Paul Webb said he ensured books and material were pulled from children’s section of Kent libraries, but it emerges they were never there” … “Webb’s message was retweeted by Linden Kemkaran, the council leader, who in her own message, dotted with fire emojis, said: “Another victory for #commonsenseinKent my brilliant cabinet member Cllr Paul Webb has just got this trans material REMOVED from the children’s sections of all Kent’s libraries. Telling children they’re in the ‘wrong body’ is wrong and simply unacceptable.””
• Reform county councillors order removal of transgender guide ‘from children’s section’ in all Kent libraries – Isle of Thanet News. “One commentator has also pointed out the book in question is for adults and its filing number means it would actually have been in the Family and Relationships section, with some libraries also filing it under LGBTQ+ History.” … “It is understood that Cllr Webb does not intend banning transgender material but to relocate it in the libraries.”
• Reform UK Kent County Council leader Linden Kemkaran backs removing trans book from libraries’ children’s sections – Kent Online. “Cllr Kemkaran indicated that it would happen across all libraries in the county.” Opposition councillor says ““This is especially odd given that the committee which usually deals with library service matters, met only two days ago (July 1). “The administration could and should have given that committee a report of its intentions to change policies in our libraries.”

• Reform UK run council removes all trans books from children’s library section – Independent.
• Reform UK-run council removes trans books from children’s sections of libraries – Pink News.
• Transgender-related books ‘removed from children’s sections’ of Kent libraries – BookSeller. Behind paywall.

“Any changes to the libraries stock management procedure since the 1st of May 2025:
KCC can confirm that there have been no changes to the libraries stock management
procedure since 1st of May 2025.

Any requests by councillors to withdraw specific book titles since the 1st May 2025:
KCC can confirm that there have been no requests by councillor to withdrawn specific
book titles since the 1st of May 2025.

Any new advice given to libraries by councillors or others within the council about stock management since 1 May 2025:
KCC can confirm that there have been no new advice given about stock management
since 1st of May 2025.

Any requests by councillors or others with the Council to remove or
otherwise reduce the visibility of stock referring to gender, sexuality, race,
immigration, refugees or diversity since 1 May 2025:
KCC can confirm that no requests have been made by councillors or others within the
council regarding the reduction of visibility of stock referring to gender, sexuality, race,
immigration, refugees or diversity since 1 May 2025.” Reply, dated 4 July, to FOI request by myself last month from Kent County Council. All other Reform councils who have replied deny there has been change to library stock.

Local news by authority

• Bromley – West Wickham Library in Bromley opens after refurbishment – News Shopper. “West Wickham Library in Bromley officially reopened on Friday, June 27, following a major upgrade. The transformation includes a new café, business lounge, and the borough’s first Makerspace featuring a 3D printer.”
• Caerphilly – Could a potential judicial review stop the council from closing ten libraries? – Caerphilly Observer. Behind paywall. [The answer is no – Ed]. “The decision to close ten libraries by the council may end up being challenged in court, Caerphilly Observer understands.”
• Camden – Jan Kattein Architects delivers redesigned children’s library at Swiss Cottage – Building Design. “the redesign introduces flexible, activity-based zones tailored to contemporary storytelling formats, following consultation with local children, educators and families”
• Conwy – Conwy council conducts official investigation over ‘inaccurate’ Llandudno library figures – Daily Post. “Cllr Emery said Conwy only owed 38% of the £46,000. This was, Cllr Emery claimed, because the rest was legally payable by other tenants of the library building’s owners Mostyn Estates, who occupied other floors. But part of Conwy’s argument for moving was the £126K-a-year saving, which was included in a report presented to strengthen the council’s case.” … “Conwy’s cabinet is expected to vote in favour of the Mostyn Street library’s closure on Tuesday, with the service moving to Venue Cymru as part of a UK Government-funded £10m “arts centre” revamp.”
• Cumberland – Future of libraries in Cumberland survey still open – News and Star. “The results of the survey will feed into Cumberland Council’s Libraries Fit for the Future (FFF) Project, which aims to futureproof the area’s library services.”
• Derby – Derby libraries to stay under council’s control as review is halted – Derbyshire Live. “All of Derby’s libraries are to stay under council control for the foreseeable future according to a report going to the authority’s cabinet meeting next Wednesday (July 9). It follows a decision to withdraw from latest deal to outsource the city’s ten community libraries to Sporting Communities in May.”
• Devon – New library summer reading challenge for children – Crediton Courier. “Bookworms will be able to take part in the Summer Book Quest: Deep Sea Adventure from Saturday, July 12 until Saturday, September 6.” … “To complete the quest, children have to do three things: visit the library, read what they like and complete one or more of the Summer Book Quest activities. Each completed task gives them a sticker and once they have them all they get a finisher sticker, keyring and certificate.”
  • Surprise boost for Exeter Library – Exeter Today. “Libraries Unlimited South West, a charity that provides community libraries across Devon, has receives [sic] a donation of £9,531 from the Morrisons Foundation.”. Money will be to “create an exciting new interactive feature for the new children’s library”
• Dudley – Black Country Day events in Dudley Libraries – Dudley Council. ” free special events aimed at celebrating the region’s rich cultural heritage, fascinating history and continuous evolution.”
  • Dudley libraries to launch summer reading challenge – Halesowen News. Story Garden.
  • Suzan Holder book launch at Wordsley Library – Press release. “Married to former Slade band member Noddy Holder, Suzan’s novels each have a musical twist.”
• Dumfries and Galloway – Dumfries’ Ewart Library reopens after restoration work – BBC. “Work at the Ewart Library was designed to modernise facilities while uncovering original Victorian features of the structure. The Ewart closed in January to make time for “careful restoration” work, which revealed a mosaic floor and burnt-orange wall tiles. Local people from across the area attended the grand opening which featured a Ewart Library branded cake and balloons.”
• East Dunbartonshire – Health Information Hubs Now Available in All East Dunbartonshire Libraries – East Dunbartonshire Council. “teamed up with the local Health and Social Care Partnership to set up Health Information Hubs in all local libraries. Each library in the area now has designated space with a range of materials available on various health and wellbeing issues, local services, and community groups. “
• East Riding – East Yorkshire library to reopen this month after major refurbishment – York Press. “Bridlington Central Library will welcome visitors from Monday, July 14. The library received £250,000 in UK taxpayer funding from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Libraries Improvement Fund, along with additional funding allocated by the council.”
• Edinburgh – Queen Camilla officially opens new library in Edinburgh – ITN. “Queen Camilla officially opened the newly refurbished Ratho Library as part of her visit to Scotland alongside the King for Royal Week. Her Majesty praised the work of the staff in a speech, saying: “What wonderful places libraries are, literally from toddlers to pensioners – they manage to inspire a love of reading of books”.”
• Enfield – Seven Enfield libraries to close permanently from next week – Enfield Dispatch. “In an update on its website, the council explains that its controversial new library strategy and operating model – including the closures of John Jackson, Bullsmoor, Southgate, Winchmore Hill, Enfield Highway, Bowes and Enfield Island Village libraries – will be implemented from this Monday (7th).”
• Glasgow – 8 of the best local libraries to visit in Glasgow with the kids during the summer holidays – Glasgow World.
• Inverclyde – Port Glasgow Library building on Lego donation – Inverclyde Council. “Senior library assistant Jac Wilks realised that the LEGO® Group made a model of the Endurance lifeboat – which Chippy helped to modify and rescue the stricken crew – but it has now been discontinued. She contacted the LEGO® Group directly to see if there was any way of acquiring a model”
• Kirklees – Kirklees’ Archive Service to Move into Our Cultural Heart’s New Library Hub – Kirklees Council. “irklees branch of the West Yorkshire Archive Service (WYAS) will be moving into Huddersfield’s new flagship library hub.”
• Lambeth – Lambeth libraries strike suspended – Brixton Blog. “Negotiations between Lambeth council and the staff trade union Unison led to a new approach from the council and library staff have voted to accept it, although some staffing issues remain to be resolved.”
• Leicester – Join in a summer of fun at Leicester Libraries – Leicester Council. Story Garden.
• Norfolk – Norfolk libraries invite families to discover the joy of reading – Norfolk Council. Story Garden.
• Northumberland – A magical summer of books and nature awaits – Northumberland Council. Story Garden. “Northumberland’s programme also includes events with authors Robin Simpson and Jodie James, Berwick ‘storyteller-in-residence’, Chris Adrianesse (ok) and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist drag artist, Mama G.”
• Oxfordshire – Library to play its part in Leys 2025 – Oxfordshire Council. Story Garden. “Blackbird Leys Library is set to play its part in the annual Leys Festival 2025 with an extension to opening hours on Saturday, 5 July. The Oxfordshire County Council run library will remain open until 3:30pm, instead of the usual 12:30pm, so that the community can visit, browse and become new members.”
  • Grow your imagination with the Summer Reading Challenge – Oxfordshire Council. Story Garden.
• Reading – Designs for town’s new central library released – BBC. “”The designs include features suggested by library users, including informal seating for teens and better equipped spaces for people to study and work.”
• South Ayrshire – New library opens its doors after relocation to historic Ayrshire building – Daily Record. “Troon Library has opened in a new location, boasting facilities ‘accessible to all.’ Ayrshire Live previously told in April last year how the library was to relocate to the town’s Municipal Buildings, while the old library would be converted into a nursery. And, following a period of works to reconfigure the new space, the official opening event for the new Troon Library was held and attended by councillors, staff and stakeholders.”
• Staffordshire – People invited to ‘Into the Light’ dance exhibition at Burton Library – Staffordshire Council. “a travelling dance exhibition that traces the history of black British ballet from the 1940s to the present day.”
• Suffolk – Council secures funding for sustainable libraries and schools – Suffolk Council. “Suffolk County Council recently secured £675,000 from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, delivered by Salix, for these improvements. The scheme is run by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.”
• Waltham Forest – Waltham Forest libraries are ‘places of sanctuary’ – Guardian Series.
• West Northamptonshire – West Northamptonshire libraries launch the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge – West Northamptonshire Council. Story Garden. “West Northamptonshire’s LibraryPlus service has partnered with Family Learning and Teach Outdoors to deliver exciting events such as teddy bear festivals, seed paper making, magic shows, bird and butterfly feeders, nature trails and much more. Children can also look forward to special collaborations with local country parks. “
• West Sussex – West Sussex libraries centenary: why Lessons in Chemistry is my favourite book – Sussex World.
• Worcestershire – County’s Summer Reading Challenge returns for 2025 – Bromsgrove Standard. Story Garden. “This year if you read four books you get free admission for one child and one adult for National Trust Croome.”
• Wrexham – Uncertainty remains over future of Wrexham’s libraries and resource centres – Wrexham.com. “The future of Wrexham’s libraries and community resource centres remains uncertain, with the council yet to publish the results of a public consultation on potential cuts. The services are facing reductions of at least £185,000 as Wrexham Council looks to balance its budget over the next two years.”

Editorial

There’s a couple of cases of libraries backing down from closing a library or three due to the public response to the initial announcement and one more realises it hasn’t enough money for its new build. Nationally, there’s a big expansion of the Summer Reading Challenge. This comes at a very opportune time as the once monopoly of the Reading Agency’s offering in councils nationally has reduced over the last few years, with several library services choosing to create their own version. Now, if only the Reading Agency can improve its medals …

Changes by authority

• Argyll and Bute – Council to keep three libraries open after u-turn and ask for volunteers for Rosneath
• Peterborough – Consultation on what cuts to make
• Rotherham – Council asks for more funding for new library
• Rutland – Ryhall Library to stay open after consultation.

National news

• £1.5 million to The Reading Agency to expand the reach and impact of the Summer Reading Challenge – Julia Rausing Trust. “This £1.5 million donation will allow The Reading Agency to reach an additional 375,000 children and families living with disadvantage by 2027, helping to break down systemic barriers to reading and extend the proven benefits of the Challenge to those who need it most.” … “The grant from The Julia Rausing Trust will support The Reading Agency to scale a cross-authority delivery model. This pioneering approach to supporting children’s reading brings together libraries with other local services such as schools, health services and community partners to reach children living in areas of high deprivation and social exclusion.” … “In 2025, the programme will launch with a number of selected library authorities, increasing in 2026 and working with 100 libraries by 2027. Outreach will include working directly with schools by providing teachers with targeted resources and tools to deliver the Challenge as well as automatically enrolling children at their local library. “
• 8 Books About the Quiet Power of Libraries and Museums – Electrical Literature.
• Charitable Foundation “Library Country” receivesd the British Public Library Champion Award 2025 – Chytomo. “We are sincerely grateful to Libraries Connected for their support, trust, and partnership. This award is a recognition of the resilience and capacity to act in the most difficult times shown by the entire Ukrainian library community. It symbolizes our shared struggle for freedom, humanity, and knowledge. We deeply thank the British people for their support, solidarity, and belief in the power of culture,” said Liusiena Shum, head of the Library Country Foundation.”

“To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what steps she is taking to help ensure that every child has access to a library in areas of high disadvantage.” Sarah Gibson Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Business). [Government reply is that local councils and schools do it]

• Charities help libraries step up support for low-income families – Libraries Connected. “The project is a partnership between Libraries Connected, the membership body for public libraries, and charity Children North East, whose unique Poverty Proofing© methodology will identify barriers preventing low-income families from accessing the full range of library services. Funded by a grant of £49,770 from Arts Council England, Children North East will carry out a full Poverty Proofing© intervention in three library services. The project started in Gateshead last year and will now move on to Oldham and Cornwall.”
• Inclusive Books for Children quintuples book-gifting scheme – BookSeller. “This year, 60 boxes, each containing 100 carefully selected children’s books, will be gifted to UK schools and community libraries. “
• Major New Exhibition Celebrates the Importance of Libraries – Fine Books Magazine. “Aside from a handful of items, the library has dispensed with displaying items in glass cases for this exhibition. Instead, people are encouraged to browse bookshelves and examine any item that piques their interest. Books include a sample of the many titles suggested to the library through a public call out seeking the books that shaped people’s lives.”
• North West libraries get ready for “record breaking rhyme time” – Libraries Connected. “More than 50 of the story and singalong sessions will be held simultaneously across the North West this Thursday 19 June. Organisers expect over a thousand families to take part in more than 50 different libraries. The event – dubbed the “record breaking rhyme time” – is the idea of Libraries Connected North West. The group wants to highlight the free family activities on offer in the region’s libraries and publicise the benefits of taking part.”
• Reimagining the public library – ALA. “takes a historical and international look at the development of public libraries over the past 25 years, posing the important question of what has changed in government policy and action. Incorporating ideas that have emerged in European, North American, and Australasian public libraries, John Pateman suggests how these can be used to inform the future development of public libraries.”

International news

• Finland – Library loans hit highest level in nearly 20 years – Yle. “Children’s fiction loans hit a new high for the third year in a row, and printed books saw an overall borrowing increase of four percent, year-on-year. Despite the increase in library loans, compensation paid to authors are on the decline, according to the copyright service.”
  • Finnish library trials electric car loans – Yle. “Library users in Turku will soon be able to borrow an electric car alongside books and other materials. The city is partnering with Toyota Auto Finland to deliver the service on a trial basis for three weeks from Monday 8 May.”
• Greece – ‘It’s not quite what I had in mind entering my eighth decade’: the London librarian of Lesbos – Guardian. “The library opened in March 2024 and has proved popular with a traumatised group of people, many of whom have fled conflict zones in countries like Syria and Afghanistan and have made dangerous sea journeys from Turkey to Greece.”
• Turkiye – Libraries to turn into multi-purpose centers – Hurriyet Daily News. “According to official data, the number of public libraries increased from 1,162 in 2018 to 1,301 as of this year. Over the same period, the total library space expanded to 750,000 square meters, while the number of users rose from 28 million to more than 38.7 million annually. As places for borrowing books, libraries are now evolving into venues for artistic expression, educational programming and innovation. In 2024 alone, more than 29,000 events were organized at public libraries, attracting over 1.5 million people.”
• USA / Alaska – Klukwan Library goes from 35 hours a week to 4 following federal funding loss – Alaska’s News Source. “Following [Trump’s] termination of their federal grant funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services”
  • USA / South Carolina – SC librarians wore rainbow lanyards when a Pride display was cancelled. Then they were fired – Post and Courier.

• Trump administration ‘violated law’ by impounding museum and library funding – Arts Professional. “according to the findings of the non-partisan Government Accountability Office (GAO).” Funding had already been approved by congress.

Local news by authority

• Argyll and Bute – U-turn on Argyll and Bute library closures – Lochside Press. “Three libraries which faced closure in Argyll and Bute will now remain open, the council said this week. And the library in Rosneath – which was closed without any consultation in March 2020 and has never reopened – could now be run by local volunteers. In April it emerged that a business plan for 2025-27 drawn up by LiveArgyll included seven libraries – but not those in Tiree, Tarbert, Cardross or Rosneath. Following widespread local concerns – with over 500 people signing a petition against the Cardross closure – and questions about whether an equalities impact assessment, it appears that the libraries have been given at least a temporary reprieve.”
• Barnsley – Barnsley Libraries and Museums celebrated as places of sanctuary – Barnsley Council.
• Birmingham – Major library shake-up: Drastic cuts to library hours across Birmingham with one site to close – Birmingham World. “Birmingham City Council has confirmed sweeping cuts to library services across the city – including the closure of a key library in Sutton Coldfield and a major reduction in opening hours elsewhere. The council is cutting nearly a third of statutory library hours as part of what it calls a “transformation” of local services. But residents and campaigners aren’t buying it.”

“To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what assessment she has made of the adequacy of Birmingham City Council’s ability to provide a (a) comprehensive and (b) efficient library service in Sutton Coldfield constituency.” Andrew Mitchell MP, Shadow Minister of State. Response is “The Department has met with Birmingham City Council officers regularly in the last 20 months, the most recent of which was 7 May, to discuss changes to their library service provision.”

• Brighton and Hove – Staff shortages force council to cut hours for customer services in libraries – Brighton and Hove News. “Customer service hours have been reduced at Brighton and Hove libraries because not enough staff are available. Brighton and Hove City Council moved its customer service teams out of the two town halls and into the Jubilee Library, Hove Library and three family hubs last month.” but unions says “there had been a lack of training for people in the new roles expected of them.” … “library staff were also unhappy about taking on extra duties which were not part of their job” and were not paid for extra duties. Council says they’re “having to temporarily reduce the staffed times of the council help desks at Jubilee Library and Hove Library due to a gap in staffing capacity.”
• Bromley – Works get underway for Bromley Central Library move – Bromley Council. “Residents will soon notice information panels set up around the former Top Shop Unit of Bromley High Street to provide protection during the works, as the site is transformed to become the home of Bromley Central Library that will open to residents in 2026. The existing library next to Churchill Theatre remains open to serve residents over the summer, as the main works get underway on the future library on the high street. “
• Buckinghamshire – Buckinghamshire Council libraries launch new Carer’s Card – Buckinghamshire Council. “This new category offers two key benefits: no overdue fees and an extended loan period of an extra week.”
• Bury – Bury Library gets ready for record-breaking rhyme time – My News Desk.
• Camden – Ernest James, barrister who had burning sense of justice – Camden New Journal. “Ernest also was a key member of a council revolt against plans to close public libraries. As cuts hit the Town hall budgets, plans were drawn up that would see a swathe of branches close altogether. Ernest argued that a Labour council should not be in a position where they were thinking closing a library was a solution.”
• Cheshire West and Chester – Annual Summer Reading Challenge to launch in Chester – Chester Standard. Story Garden. “Participants will also enjoy a host of rewards, including free entry to Hayrack Church Farm and discounts at the Climbing Hut and Deva Roman Experience.”.
• Dudley – Summer Reading Challenge for children at Dudley Libraries – Express and Star. Story Garden.
• Glasgow – Every Glasgow secondary school set to lose its librarian – BBC. Proposed cut. “The plans would see the school service headed up by a principal librarian along with three area-based librarians. An assistant would then be placed in each of the city’s high schools.”
• Hull – Children’s literature festival returns to city – BBC. “With a theme of “What if….” The Big Malarkey Festival will return to East Park in Hull on Saturday 28 June and Sunday 29 June. Organised by Hull Libraries, the family friendly event will include writers, dancers, illustrators, poets, actors and musicians.”
• Inverclyde – Summer Reading Challenge 2025 – Inverclyde Council. Story Garden. ” we are very excited to be able to offer the prize of a performance from Booster Cushion Theatre to the school in Inverclyde that has the highest completion rate.” … “A launch event will be held in the community garden at Greenock South West Library … with outdoor storytelling, crafts and a character scavenger hunt”
  • Inverclyde library users warned of disruption to printing – Greenock Telegraph. “some branch libraries may be affected due to the delivery and installation of new photocopier machines.”
• Kent – Kent library volunteer celebrates win at Libraries Connected Awards 2025 – Kent Council. “Sue Carmichael from Tunbridge Wells was crowned the winner of the Reading category in this year’s Libraries Connected Awards. She was honoured for her work championing book clubs in Kent which are part of Beyond Words – a charity that co-creates word-free picture stories to empower people with learning disabilities.”
• Lambeth – Lambeth libraries receive ‘Library of Sanctuary’ recognition for helping UK newcomers – Lambeth Council. “All Lambeth library staff have been trained in working with people new to the UK and Libraries have set up new ‘branch champion’ roles in each of the borough’s 10 libraries. Branch champions visited refugee hostels to promote the extensive services libraries offer. “
• Liverpool – Riot-hit library’s artwork celebrates community’s ‘hope’ – BBC. “A library set on fire during last summer’s riots is set to unveil a new artwork celebrating the community who were there to help it rise from the ashes. As well as the Welcome Home artwork featuring images of people from the Walton community, a song and a film, which is the culmination of Dora Colquhoun’s artist residency at the hub and library, will be showcased on Saturday.”
• Manchester – Manchester Central Library to close for three weeks – Manchester Evening News. “The council has confirmed the library off St Peter’s Square will be shut from August 2 to August 24. It’s for the installation of Wi-Fi and computer network upgrades.”
• Medway – Medway libraries introduce customer charter – Medway Council.
• Northern Ireland – Enright Calls For Downpatrick Library Archive To Remain – Down News. “Downpatrick Alliance Councillor Cadogan Enright has contacted the Chief Executive of the NI Library Service Jim O’Hagan and asked for an urgent review of plans to displace the Archive Section in Downpatrick Library and replace it with a gallery or performance space. Councillor Enright said: “These plans are seriously flawed. This archive is a treasure-trove of County Down material for local historians and writers like myself.”
• North Yorkshire – Volunteers needed for Summer Reading Challenge in libraries – Press. Story Garden.
• Oxfordshire – Oxfordshire library mangers scoop national award – Oxford Mail. “Jake Tilling and Karen Seymour, managers at Witney and Hook Norton libraries respectively, were recognised for their work on the Making Every Contact Count programme, a national scheme that encourages library staff to support the health and wellbeing of visitors through everyday conversations.” [No mention of the animal food boxes referred to it in the title – Ed.]
• Peterborough – Peterborough City Council survey on future of libraries – Peterborough Matters. “The Library Needs Assessment Engagement Survey, which is run by an independent team, will ask how people use the ten libraries and mobile library, and which services and facilities they think are important.”
  • Consultation under way on threatened libraries – BBC. “A council is asking residents how they use their city’s network of libraries as it reviews plans to reduce the service. Peterborough City Council proposed cutting its static libraries from 10 down to three as part of budget proposals, saying the move would save £314,000 a year. Library users objected to the plans and asked the council to reconsider the loss of community facilities. The authority’s cabinet agreed to put the proposal on hold and “complete a full needs assessment” before making a detailed recommendation.”
• Rotherham – New library and market scheme soars over budget – BBC. “Rotherham Council has asked for a £6.5m pound bailout after costs for a new market and library development escalated. The council has approached South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority for the funding after the redevelopment of the town’s markets and library complex rose to nearly £41 million. Originally expected to cost about £31.7m, the council has already received £3.4m from the mayor’s office.”
• Rutland – Council to maintain current Ryhall Library Service offer following review of options – Rutland Council. ” Council will continue to operate Ryhall Library Service in its current form and from its existing premises, following public consultation and a review of available options.”. Council had originally wanted to close library due to cost of repairs but ” a prolonged process to relocate the provision and then dispose of the building would not be in the interest of library users or an effective use of resources, at this time.”
• Somerset – Somerset Libraries invite you to take a trip into a virtual world – Somerset Council. “The ground-breaking initiative will deliver a range of breathtaking Virtual Reality experiences in Taunton, Bridgwater, Yeovil and Chard libraries from 28 June – 11 July, such as accompanying Wallace and Gromit on an adventure, sitting in with a full orchestra while they play Lark Ascending or experience riding in a World War Two bomber.”
• Staffordshire – Children invited to Shakespeare crafts session at Stafford Library – In Your Area.
• Surrey – Library celebrates completion of ‘extensive’ refurb – BBC. “Epsom Library will hold face painting and yoga sessions and author talks, alongside regular activities such as Rhymetime, Storytime, digital support and craft groups, from 16 to 21 June. Surrey County Council (SCC) said the “transformed” library now has “a fully flexible layout with space for events and performances, improved furniture, increased study space, and two flexible-use meeting rooms.””
• Thurrock – Tilbury Library celebrates Windrush Day with week of events – Thurrock Council. Artwork and artefacts, from museum and local schools.
• Walsall – Walsall to Host Black British Ballet Exhibition and Events – Walsall Council. “The exhibition will include 20 to 30 images taken over the past 60 years, archive posters, and audio and video clips of the dancer’s stories. The video clips will be sourced from interviews carried out by Oxygen Arts over the past 18 months with 20 black British ballet dancers.    “
• Wiltshire – Residents unable to visit the library are encouraged to use the council’s home library service – Wiltshire Council. “This is a free service where the local library arranges for volunteers to take books to residents in their homes.”
• Wirral – Have your say on Wirral library changes before deadline – Wirral Globe. “Wirral Council is consulting the public on plans to reshape the service into a core network of eight council-operated libraries.” until 1 July.
• York – Explore: The Library Scene in York – York Vision. A very positive look at what the library service offers. “One area of Explore York that I was particularly impressed by was its connection with the local community. In fact, Explore York is the community, with its services being supported and shaped by local people. Becoming a community member for just £1 can allow you to vote for three community directors that will represent your views and ideas at board meetings. ” … “Explore York is a pillar of the city, enriched with community spirit and accessibility …”