Libraries and the Regional Agenda

Discusses the Governmentʹs regional agenda in relation to library and information services. Stresses that the role of the regions, generally, is high up the political agenda and that the development of a regional aspect for library and information services, specifically, is also well advanced. Gives an overview of the role of Resource (the Council for Museums, Archives and Libraries) in the regional agenda and describes how the strategic involvement of the museums, libraries and archives (MLA) sector is becoming more prominent. Reviews a number of key developments for library and information services which have a regional perspective including Framework for the Future and the Wider Information and Library Issues Project (WILIP). Discusses how the new Regional Agencies will build on the success of the former Regional Library Systems to develop a new strategic agenda for the MLA sector which, whilst recognizing the differences between the various partners, hopes to capitalize on the synergies within the sector. Summarizes the key priorities for the Regional Agencies which include advocacy and lobbying, data gathering, raising the profile of the sector and its contribution to a range of policy areas, the mapping of user needs and the building of effective relationships. Acknowledges that problems exist in working across the different service areas including a separation of duties at government level and confusion about responsibilities. Concludes with an analysis of what the regional agenda can offer library and information services, asserting that a regional role and perspective could be the solution to a range of difficulties currently facing the sector.