The integrated management of leisure directorates in UK public libraries

Abstract

Paper first presented at the Dawson Seminar: Public libraries in the polit ical arena, Loughborough University, September 1993. Traces the emergence of community development as a major concern of UK public libraries, as a means of enabling individuals and groups to acquire more influence over the issues that affect their lives in terms of the quality of life, education, self esteem and self confidence. Notes that this is merely an extension of the motive that led to the growth of the public library movement, the creation of parks and the emphasis given to access to the countryside. Notes the impact of these ideas on Oxfordshire County Council when, in April 1987, it resolved to establish a new com mittee to replace the former Libraries, Museums and Archives Committee. The terms of reference of the new Committee included: undertaking the functions of the Council in relation to libraries, museums, arts, archaeolo gy, archives and records; securing the adequate provision of leisure and recreational facilities throughout the county; and responsibility for the pro duction of the Oxfordshire volumes of the Victoria County History. Concludes that, with the future shape of local government still so uncertain, it is impossible to predict how these large scale leisure and heritage depart ments are likely to evolve.