Source · Select Committees · Culture, Media and Sport Committee
Recommendation 21
21
Acknowledged
Paragraph: 114
The services and spaces offered by public libraries remain an important part of a community’s...
Conclusion
The services and spaces offered by public libraries remain an important part of a community’s infrastructure for people who are digitally excluded or who live in deprived neighbourhoods.
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the value and important role of public libraries as part of local community infrastructure.
Paragraph Reference:
114
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
As noted above, we are pleased to see that the Select Committee recognises the value of public libraries and the important role that they play as part of local community infrastructure, both through what they provide themselves, and in their capacity as an important platform for civil society and other public services to reach out into communities. We agree that public libraries provide a unique service in helping people to help themselves and improve their opportunities. As well as bringing people together, libraries provide practical support such as digital skills and inclusion, as well as support for small businesses and entrepreneurs, a wide range of reading and reference material, and the provision of highly trusted objective and accurate information and guidance. Public libraries can also extend cultural engagement because of their position within communities, hosting and delivering cultural and creative activities themselves such as theatre, music and dance performances, and also pointing people - locals and visitors alike - to wider cultural activities and encouraging them to explore different experiences.