§ Mr. Freudasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will issue a circular to local authorities designed to increase the contribution of the public library system to the community.
§ Mr. Hugh JenkinsI have been asked to reply.
The Department's Circular 5/73 outlined the main opportunities arising under the reorganised system of local government for the development of the public library service in relation to other services provided for the community. I am sending a copy to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. Freudasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will issue a circular to local authorities designed to promote the expansion of the public library system into neighbourhood advice and information centres.
§ Mr. Hugh JenkinsI have been asked to reply.
Many public libraries already serve as information centres for their communities in various ways, for example, by providing accommodation for citizens' advice bureaux. The advice of my Department's library advisers is available to library authorities in deciding how their public libraries can fit into the pattern of information services best suited to local needs, but I see no need for general guidance.