HL Deb 05 February 1998 vol 585 c129WA
The Earl of Carlisle

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will protect library services for disabled and aged citizens in towns and cities and also in rural areas. [HL74]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey:

The Government are responsible for ensuring that local library authorities provide a comprehensive and efficient public library service in accordance with the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964. Under the terms of the Act, library authorities are responsible for providing library services to those, including the disabled and aged, who live, work or study within their areas. While the Government regret any reductions in library service, the detailed nature of service provision is a matter for each library authority based on local priorities and resources.