| answer text |
<p>The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport monitors proposed changes
to library service provision throughout England, but does not hold complete figures
on the number of public libraries closed from 2010 to date.</p><p> </p><p>Local authorities
in England have a statutory duty to provide a comprehensive and efficient library
service, and it is for individual local authorities to decide how best to provide
a public library service that meets local needs within available resources. However,
DCMS works with the Libraries Taskforce and local and central government to promote
good practice and innovation to sustain and improve library services in England.</p><p>
</p><p>In 2017, DCMS and the Libraries Taskforce commissioned research by SERIO about
how community managed libraries in England operate, and lessons that can be learnt
and shared about their effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability. Following consideration
of the report and its recommendations, DCMS and the Libraries Taskforce has improved
and strengthened information and guidance on community managed libraries. For example,
updating the Taskforce’s Community Managed Libraries toolkit for those running or
considering establishing community libraries. DCMS and the Libraries Taskforce has
also worked with partners to help community managed libraries to set up a peer network,
to build closer links and to share learning and support between themselves.</p>
|
|
