http://www.publicpolicyexchange.co.uk/events/FF11-PPE Taking place in London in June, this event is an opportunity to discuss the findings that were published in the government report (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/independent-library-report-for-england) and as written about on this blog here and here. It’s being organized by Public Policy Exchange, in the form of a symposium. Details are given below.

In June 2012, recognising the invaluable service libraries provide, the Culture Minister announced a package of measures outlining his vision  for a sustainable 21st Century public library service. Whilst the new measures are to be welcomed, at a time of shrinking budgets and increasing service demands libraries need to keep finding innovative ways to safeguard library and cultural services. The Local Government Association provides many examples of innovation including libraries merging with GP surgeries, housing police front desks, giving shop space to local entrepreneurs and putting on concerts. In addition, there has also been an increase in community managed and supported libraries situated within village halls, pubs, shops, churches, day care centres, tourist information centres and enterprise hubs. The Independent Library Report, commissioned jointly by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and the Department for Communities and Local Government and published in December 2014, made several recommendations including; providing Wi-Fi in every library, a universal library card and catalogue, encouraging more community involvement in the management of libraries and developing the library workforce. The report also recommended establishing a library taskforce, led by councils, to implement the recommendations, support the creation of a national digital library network, and help reinvigorate the public library service in England, which the Government has implemented and will provisionally be called ‘Leadership for Libraries’. This special symposium provides an invaluable opportunity for local authorities, government departments, the library sector, shared services teams and other key partners to examine the Government’s latest policy initiatives and explore how libraries can remain a vital local resource in the 21st Century – innovating and adapting to deliver a whole range of services.

It takes place in London on Thursday 11th June. Click the link for more information and to book your place. http://www.publicpolicyexchange.co.uk/events/FF11-PPE