Continuity and Innovation in the Public Library

The UK government review of public library services has focused attention on the place of public library services in the next century. Understanding the historical perspective of the public libraries' contribution to the life of the nation should be one aspect of the debate, providing the necessary context for identifying a vision for the future. With contributions from well-known academics and practitioners, this volume explores significant issues which impinge on the direction which public libraries will take in the medium and longer term. Current concerns are related to the historical record, from the origins of public libraries in the mid-19th century through to the present day. Topics covered in this text are: the leisure revolution; concepts of the public library; local politics and national provision; the development of home reading; public library building design; the library and the rural community; services to schools; reaching out to non-readers; managing in a corporate culture - the role of the chief librarian; and public libraries and political purpose.
The book is aimed at policy makers and managers in the library and education sectors, as well as students of LIS, public policy and government, public administration, sociology and education.