19 Trusted services


delivered by trusted professionals


By Martyn Wade, Former Chair of the IFLA Advisory Committee on Freedom of Access to Information and Freedom of Expression at the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)


Welcome to your new role in the public library – one of the most important and popular public services in the country.


It is over 150 years since public libraries were developed as an important resource to help people improve the quality of their lives. Since then, they have developed into active centres of their communities providing learning, information, culture and pleasure for everyone. They are open to all, and continue to change alongside the communities they serve, whilst reflecting the enormous changes in society and technology over the years. Today they continue to play a vital part in the lives of citizens at every stage of their lives.


Your public library is part of a network that spreads right across the local authority area and beyond. Public libraries collaborate and cooperate with other publicly funded libraries (including schools, colleges, universities and national libraries), cultural and educational facilities, health services and the third sector to provide services for everyone.


Working in a public library is interesting, challenging – and extremely rewarding! You will have the opportunity to meet and help people of all ages and from all walks of life.


As a member of staff, you have a key role in helping people who come to the public library – and those who use


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