'Coffee shop' culture to be encouraged in libraries - Government review » Communities » 24dash.com

Libraries could become places to chat with coffee shops and internet cafes rather than the stereotype of "dusty books and silence", according to a Government review launched today.

Culture Secretary Andy Burnham said that, in an online world, libraries should more than ever be at the heart of communities.

Mr Burnham launched a modernisation review of England's public library service.

Speaking at the Public Library Authorities Conference in Liverpool, Mr Burnham said: "Our public library service is a fantastic national asset that has been empowering people and changing lives for more than 150 years.

"We are absolutely committed to ensuring that a high-quality, free service - responsive to local needs - is available to all...

"Learning, literacy and the written word will always be the heartbeat of the service, but there's much that can be done in addition to make them come alive for generations to come.

"There are some incredibly interesting things going on in our public libraries, far removed from the stereotype of dusty books and silence, that we should celebrate.

"The review will look at how we share and build on that innovation, to make sure that our libraries have a vibrant future."

The review will take place over the next six months.

A full report will then be published for wider consultation. It will look at the issues facing the sector and raised by the public.

This will include how to make sure that libraries deliver what the public wants in the future; possibly examining new ways of delivering - such as a shared site with a swimming pool or GP's surgery; and debating whether libraries should be silent or social, perhaps with coffee shops or internet cafes.

The review will be led by Culture Minister Barbara Follett.