What young people have a right to expect from their library
A statement defining what young people should be entitled to from their local library has been recently launched. The statement, or “offer”, is part of the wider agenda to ensure children and young people, both through schools and other institutions such as libraries, have increasing access to cultural services and learning opportunities. Launching the offer at a conference at Local Government House, MLA Director of Policy Sue Wilkinson said: “This is a short, simple, but very significant statement designed to help all councils ensure that the local library is a free, safe and welcoming space where young people can meet and access relevant and up-to-date books and other information.”
Young people should expect from their library:
- Participation in shaping the future of library services
- Volunteering opportunities with younger or older library users
- A place to develop citizenship skills and community engagement
- Free, safe and welcoming spaces in the local community
- Formal and informal learning support for educational attainment
- Inspiring books and reading materials supported by positive activities
- Information on education, training and careers opportunities
Miranda McKearney, Director of the Reading Agency, said: “Libraries are changing fast; becoming the place of choice for more young people! They have a key role to play in helping local authorities achieve their ambitions for and with young people. The new offer articulates the richness of what libraries can do for young people, and the need to involve young people in shaping future services. “
The offer has been developed as a result of consultation with young people from across the country about what they want and expect their local library to provide. It follows on from the national libraries change programme Fulfilling their Potential, which has inspired innovative partnership projects with young people, including the HeadSpace™ Big Lottery project.
The offer has been developed by the National Youth Libraries Board, a partnership chaired by the MLA and managed by the Reading Agency. Other members include government departments, the Society of Chief Librarians, the LGA, the National Youth Agency and other national bodies. You can see the MLA website for more information and the full statement.
Libraries in York will now be looking to see how they support meeting these standards.
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