This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Facelift for public libraries
15/03/2007
A £1 million Executive-funded programme to help local authorities offer a more modern and improved range of library services was unveiled today.
Culture Minister Patricia Ferguson launched the Public Library Quality Improvement Matrix (PLQIM) today when she officially opened a new library in Blackburn, West Lothian.
The Matrix is an evaluation tool to be used by local authorities to help them manage their resources better, and to offer more effective library services.
It has been developed by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), on behalf of the Executive and in partnership with local authorities.
The Executive's support for the project, which runs 2006-08, was declared in its cultural policy statement 'Scotland's Culture' published in January 2006.
Ms Ferguson said:
"Libraries play a valuable role in our cultural, social and educational lives. It is crucial, however, that we recognise that modern libraries must respond to the shifting needs of the communities in which they serve.
"Libraries are increasingly offering a wider package of services to their customers which can include internet access, providing a meeting space for community groups and improved services for people with disabilities.
"This tool will help local authorities demonstrate the quality of the library services they currently provide and make enhancements where necessary."
Chair of SLIC Christine May said:
"Public libraries play an important role in the lives of communities across Scotland. Indeed, 45 per cent of the population have used libraries services in the last month.
"24 percent of the population regularly borrow books and the rest of us use a range of services from the internet to the valuable local history collections.
"The launch of this evaluation tool, backed by government funding, provides an excellent opportunity to sustain and develop libraries services which are fit for the 21st century."