Public libraries, arts and cultural policy in the UK

Abstract

Purpose Public libraries in the UK are increasingly expected to provide arts activities and events as part of their usual operations. The purpose of this paper is to summarise recent policy trends in this direction from both the perspective of libraries’ and the arts sector. A touring theatre project aimed at children and families is discussed in further detail to examine some of the outcomes of these policies. Design/methodology/approach The paper will present a brief history of policy developments and debate in this area. Mixed method findings from the research element of “Among Ideal Friends” will be discussed, having used surveys and interviews with audiences and librarians, geodemographic profiling, box office records and library card data. Findings Public funding across both libraries and the arts has decreased at a national and local level, though both sectors are encouraged to work together to share expertise and community knowledge. Research limitations/implications The primary funding for the project was an arts funding body. While a holistic approach to evaluation was taken, this limited any specific focus that might have been given to educational outcomes or cost-benefit analysis compared to other interventions. Practical implications Public libraries can see the results and challenges of a successful regional touring theatre project for consideration in their own activity planning, especially those related to families and younger users. Social implications Libraries and Arts organisations have different priorities in regards to these areas. Though co-operative, the situation is not without tension. The topic is illustrative of some wider debates around cultural value, everyday participation and cultural democracy. Originality/value This paper offers a timely discussion of cultural policy in relation to libraries, e.g. The Society of Chief Librarians “Universal Cultural Offer” (October 2017).

The quest for attractiveness of publicly owned libraries: a service quality perspective

“…Hence, the service experience delivered by publicly owned libraries should be assessed considering the availability of adequate spaces intended to promote interpersonal relationships and exchange of information (Stilwell, 2018). The availability of open spaces where communication and pluralism can be nurtured (Lim and Kim, 2009) and the arrangement TQM 35,3 of physical areas devoted to promoting knowledge sharing and socialization, such as cafeterias, exhibition spaces and conference rooms (Vallet, 2013), are key to enhance the ability of public libraries to meet the evolving needs of users (Fletcher, 2019). Alongside representing amenities that increase the value perceived by users, spaces for social interactions revitalize the libraries' environment, boosting their attractiveness toward newcomers (Leckie and Hopkins, 2002).…”