It is essential that public library staff and their leaders are equipped with the skills to deliver a public library service for the 21st Century. Framework for the Future's "leading Modern Public Libraries" programme is aimed at strenghthening leadership at all levels within a service: Heads of Service, Senior Managers and future Leaders. There is a strong focus within the course content on advocacy skills, political awareness, strategic thinking and transformational leadership.
The Museums Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) workforce development plan outlines 4 strategic objectives to achieve a skilled and diverse workforce across the sectors: a workforce fit for purpose; enhancing leadership and workforce skills; empowering learning and change; and research for action. As part of this plan, the MLA is working with key partners such as CILIP and Lifelong Learning UK to develop new accreditation routes to support people gain qualifications through on-the-job training as well as the traditional library schools route.
Buildings
Public library buildings are the responsibility of the 149 parent authorities. DCMS' view, reflected in the Framework for the Future policy document is that library buildings should be fit for the needs of 21st century users. This is a view endorsed by David Lammy, Minister for Culture who wants our libraries to be welcoming and open to all.
The picture across the 149 authorities is patchy and the Third Report of the Culture, Media and Sport select committee into public libraries was critical of the condition of library buildings in England. The MLA has commissioned an audit of the libraries estate to gain a clearer picture of its condition nationwide. The audit will be published early 2006.
Nevertheless, there have been a number of very good library buildings opened in recent years. Many of these feature on the MLA funded website, Designing Libraries which aims to encourage good practice. The CABE, Better Public Libraries and 21st Century Library reports also stressed the need and benefits of good design.
DCMS has contributed around £130m PFI credits in library and part library projects over the last five years. The Big Lottery Fund is currently developing a library building programme that will help deliver community based services and engage local people.
Efficiency
DCMS and MLA have recently published a report on book procurement and general library efficiency by consultants PKF. This highlights how collective purchasing and streamlining of processes can mean savings to the library service that could be used to improve services to the public. The next steps for book procurement are highlighted on the MLAs website.
