Melville House Books

The Wren Library, Cambridge

England has an ambitious plan afoot to modernize their public libraries. According to this report in the Independent, the plan proposes: “Library-goers should have the right to order any book —- including out-of-print editions —- and free access to e-books under a new plan for the future of the library service. Free internet use and membership of all libraries in England.” These are some of the recommendations outlined in a report by Culture Minister Margaret Hodge.

The Independent quoted Hodge as saying: “Public libraries at their best are the heartbeat of communities, providing knowledge, pleasure, services and support to all at every stage of their lives. I want the library service to grow and prosper, continuing to offer a first-rate free service to everyone, literally from birth onwards, with free access to printed books, the internet and e-books as the market grows…”

According to the Independent, Hodge’s policy report states unequivocally that borrowing books free of charge is the heart of the libraries remit, that all libraries should be “digitally inclusive” with easier, free access to the internet, and that “local authorities set out their own ‘local offer’ including commitments on their stock of books, events and extra services such as CD and DVD loans.”

Also proposed were, “exploring partnerships with other services and businesses such as post offices and coffee shops,” said the Independent, along with the creation of “a new strategic body be considered to lead and develop the library sector and the power to advise the Government.”

We here stateside can only cheer on in wonderment at this impressive commitment to local public libraries ….

Valerie Merians is the co-founder and co-publisher of Melville House.