CILIP Launches Future Libraries  

Future Libraries is a two-part initiative from CILIP that will challenge and engage librarians and library leaders to reimagine libraries in a world of evolving living and working patterns, in the context of a rapidly changing world. 

When CILIP commissioned the Future Libraries project, it was to address a central question: What kind of public library network will England need to support its social, economic, and industrial development over the remainder of this century? 

Part one is a horizon-scanning report, Come Rain or Shine: Preparing public libraries for the future in an age of uncertainty and envisions the challenges and demands that public libraries will face from now until 2040. The report provides an in-depth analysis of future scenarios that can impact public libraries to help library staff and leaders to become more agile in their strategies and activities.

Come Rain or Shine is accompanied by a ‘do-it-yourself' Future Libraries toolkit to help libraries imagine possible future uses of their spaces, with practical insights into generating and testing different scenarios for public libraries. 

Using the report and toolkit, libraries will be equipped to assess their specific community contexts and prepare effective strategies for resilient service provision in the future.

While the future is unknown, we can all take steps to ensure we are as well prepared as possible. The public library sector might not be able to predict what will happen next, but it can build resilience and equip services to ensure they are adaptable and able to meet the needs of a changing landscape, while avoiding potential pitfalls. 

As times change, so must our libraries. Come Rain or Shine and the Future Library toolkit share insights into how libraries can embrace change and continue to be integral agents in shaping and improving society.  

Future Libraries was commissioned by CILIP and created by Shared Intelligence with funding from Arts Council England.  

Come Rain or Shine Report: www.cilip.org.uk/page/come-rain-download 
Future Libraries Toolkit: www.cilip.org.uk/page/Future-Libraries-TK