Counties come together for the First Wave of Support for Libraries

Herefordshire and Shropshire are one of ten partnerships in the country that will receive Government support to develop services that will result in an innovative approach to delivering libraries.

Fifty one proposals, representing over 100 local authorities, were received by the Government to explore future options for the delivery of library services in light of changing customer demands, new opportunities to work with local communities, and taking advantage of developments in technologies.

The proposal made by Herefordshire and Shropshire reflects a number of similar challenges, not least delivering services in rural areas.

The project will consider the use of new models of service, building on both authorities experience in working with communities to run libraries.

One of the strengths of the joint submission was that it builds on developments that have already taken place.

This includes working much more closely with communities on neighbourhood libraries, for example at Peterchurch in Herefordshire the library is run by volunteers in a multi-use centre, and the library in Cleobury Mortimer, Shropshire is part run by the private sector.

Councillor Adrian Blackshaw, cabinet member for economic development and community services at Herefordshire Council said: "We are delighted that Herefordshire and Shropshire through their combined efforts have confirmed this support direct from the Government. What is important in going forward is the best result for local people in being able to look at how we can create a modern and cost effective service".

Councillor Steve Charmley, portfolio holder for culture and leisure at Shropshire Council added: "We are committed to modernising our library service and participating in this programme will help us to shape its future. Meeting the local needs of customers will be at the heart of this."

On announcing the ten awarded areas, Ed Vaizey, Minster for Culture, Communications and Creative Industries, said: "A strong library service, based around the needs of local people, can play a key role in our ambitions to build the Big Society by providing safe and inclusive spaces for people to read, learn and access a range of community services."

The programme is being facilitated by MLA (the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council).

For more information on the ten winning proposals visit the MLA website www.mla.gov.uk.