Future of public libraries
There will be a Westminster Hall debate on the future of public libraries at 9:30am on 14 May 2025. The debate will be opened by Jonathan Davies MP.

A Westminster Hall debate on public libraries is scheduled for Thursday 11 July 2019 at 1.30 pm. The Member leading the debate is Matt Western MP
General Debate on Public Libraries (132 KB , PDF)
The Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964 requires local authorities in England and Wales to “provide a comprehensive and efficient library service”.
“Comprehensive and efficient” are not defined. It is the responsibility of each local authority to determine how to deliver public library services in the context of local need.
The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport can order an inquiry where there is concern that a local authority is not fulfilling its duties under the Act. This has not happened since 2009 when an inquiry looked at the library services provided by Wirral Metropolitan Borough Council.
Concerns about the future of library services are ongoing. The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) has a “My Library By Right” campaign.
For further information, see the Library Briefing Paper, Public libraries (CBP 05875, 20 June 2019). This focuses on libraries in England but has links to sources on public libraries in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
General Debate on Public Libraries (132 KB , PDF)
There will be a Westminster Hall debate on the future of public libraries at 9:30am on 14 May 2025. The debate will be opened by Jonathan Davies MP.
The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25 is scheduled to have its report stage in the House of Commons on 16 May 2025.
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