March 13, 2012 at 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Central Hall Westminster, London
Public library services and staff are under threat from cuts and closures on a massive scale.
During the lobby of Parliament, join local library users, campaigners and staff to help highlight the importance of libraries in providing access to learning, information and knowledge and as a vital lifeline for many communities.
Join the rally and lobby
- Attend the rally and hear high profile speakers, entertainment and films all telling the same story – libraries are a valued and vital resource.
- Visit the ‘pop up’ library and see for yourself the many faces of a modern library.
- Arrange to meet with your MP and tell them now is the time to act to protect libraries.
See you there!
"As my childhood was during the 1930’s depression, the library was very important to me. and my 4 siblings. We had story telling, magazine (current), wide range of books which were checked out and and treasured, kept safely at home. The library was warmer in cold weather and comfortable in hot weather. The staff were always helpful and kind. At the age of 85 years today I feel the library is still very important to all ages. Books to hold and keep informed and today computers. Bravo."
— National Libraries Day, Weoley Castle Library
"Weoley Castle Library is a very helpful, kind, informative place of where many people from different backgrounds can be. I myself have found them enjoyable to talk to about various CD’s I have borrowed and rekindled my music passion. Thank you."
— National Libraries Day, Weoley Castle Library
Via Scoop.it - Libraries around the world

‘Occupy’ libraries from across the globe.
Via flickr.com
Via Scoop.it - Libraries around the world
A highlight of 2011: The most exciting intellectual moment of 2011 for me was learning that People’s Libraries were at the heart of the various Occupy movement camps. The idea that knowledge and culture should be freely-available and widely-shared amongst those who want access to them is incredibly appealing. The spontaneous creation of these libraries against a backdrop of public library closures is a sign of hope. The destruction of nearly 3,000 books in the Zuccotti Park raid only reinforced the power of this idea.
Via forbes.com
Via Scoop.it - General library news
Trying to think of ways to get your child interested in reading? Studies have shown that young children learn effectively through play. The Park Ridge Public Library provides a wide range of materials for children that encourage their love…
Via triblocal.com
Via Scoop.it - General library news

Urban Librarians Unite started as a way to get librarians to exchange ideas. Over time, we’ve cultivated an effective mix of Social Media and old fashioned advocacy. The stereotype of the quiet, meek librarian has given us a lot to play with.
Via huffingtonpost.com
Via Scoop.it - General library news

The British Library unveils sculptor Antony Gormley’s latest work, which was commissioned by a charity that promotes the freedom to write.
Via bbc.co.uk
Via Scoop.it - UK Public libraries in the news
“Free library membership from birth is an entitlement for all children but not many people are aware of this. “Being able to join through the registrars’ service saves parents time and reduces the need for form-filling as the membership form is completed online and the baby’s card posted out within a week. “From the new year, enclosed with the library card will also be a voucher for a free gift, which can be claimed at the child’s first library visit.”
Via yorkshirepost.co.uk
Via Scoop.it - General library news

Cambridge University gives the public access to digitised science papers, revealing the calculations of famous minds…
Via guardian.co.uk