Free Public Library Service

Compare the Unesco Public Library Manifesto

Services are funded from the public purse for two reasons:

1. They are not commercially viable even if essential to the public good.
   
2. They fulfil an accepted individual right which would only be available to the privileged if not available free of charge.

 
LIANZA believes that public libraries satisfy both these criteria. Recognising that in times of economic stringency there is a tendency to look for ways of raising funds for public services other than by taxation, the Association asserts that it is essential that a basic level of public library provision be retained in accordance with its Standards for Public library Service, adopted in 1980.

1. Public libraries should be free and universally available. 
   
2. Public library services should be available free of charge, except such charges as defined in the Standards. 
   
3. Public library collections should reflect the interests, immediate and potential, of the community and should cater for individuals as well as popular requirements. 
   
4. All users should be able to borrow and have access to all services from public libraries.
   
5. Public libraries should be an integral part of local government.
   
6. Financing of public libraries should be the combined responsibility of local and central government.