How will the Library Users Charter effect the delivery of e-Learning to your community?
The Library Users Charter, as announced by the MLA (July ’10), will broaden decision making processes for libraries looking to develop their range of services to the public.
Although a ‘timely initiative’, the Library Users Charter has come at a time when budget cuts are at the top of everyones list. Despite this, the charter allows libraries to look toward their community to help appropriate funding. In turn, it means that services can be tailored to local demand.
Roy Clare, MLA Chief Executive explains that the charter…
“recognises that library users and the wider public are the first and principal stakeholders in the library service… The more that the public is involved in decision-making through a variety of groupings of their choosing, the better”
So, what does this mean? Let’s look at the positives:
- Local libraries won’t need to prioritise programs that users aren’t interested in.
- Increasing the ability for libraries to react to the public makes them more relevant.
- Increased relevance brings people back in to the library.
- Through focus groups, the charter encourages the community to become a fundamental driver of change.
- It also allows libraries to justify spend and measure success.
One of the main drives for the MLA is to improve library technology and e-Learning. The new charter offers a great opportunity for libraries to to get to grips with online resources and developments.
Developing an online presence also allows:
- Greater community access.
- Through forums, libraries can get a feel for what people want and how people think.
- Interact over learning development skills and gauge where the gaps are.
- If libraries can respond to the needs of the public, libraries become a force for change and a greater support platform for lifelong learning and community action.
Freeing libraries to engage with the public about local services can only be a good thing- to see how the public charter might effect your library community, take a look at: MLA & the Library Users Charter