Department for Culture Media and Sport
museums, libraries and archives council (mla)
The MLA, which we sponsor, is the lead strategic agency for museums, libraries and archives. It advises government on policy and priorities for the sector.
The MLA is our lead strategic agency for museums, libraries and archives. It advises government on policy and priorities for the sector and has a strong evidence and research capability.
It acts as a powerful advocate for the three sectors, and promotes innovation and change. It enables museums, libraries and archives to provide more and more people with high quality experiences that enrich their lives.
The MLA is a unified national team with expert staff working flexibly across the nine English regions.
Within its remit, the MLA has responsibility for the following key programmes:
Libraries Action Plan
Through the government’s Libraries Modernisation Review the MLA is helping local councils develop better library services for people and communities. This includes action to extend and improve the highly successful digital services that are already creating 24 hour library service, seven days a week.
Renaissance in the Regions
The MLA leads the Renaissance £48 million annual programme that is transforming England’s regional museums. Working in partnership with local government and other funders, it is increasing public participation, delivering education, learning and community development and contributing to regeneration and renewal.
Archives Strategy
In collaboration with The National Archives, the MLA is leading on a consultation for the future for publicly-funded archive services in England and Wales.
The MLA also plays a key role in the Cultural Olympiad; develops the accreditation and designation of museums; and the funding of campaigns, such as the Museums at Night and Kids in Museums.
To find out more about MLA's work and what's happening in the regions, visit the MLA website.
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