By Felicity Ussher, 6 November 1998 00:20
NEWS Detailed plans for a UK network of public libraries will be released today by governmental advisors, the Libraries and Information Commission (LIC). Their report, "Building the New Library Network," will explain how the government should go about digitising library books, training staff, and actually building the network. Policy Advisor, Tim Owen, told Silicon.com: "Unlike our previous ideas for a network of libraries, this publication is based on firm, costed proposals. The expertise behind the LIC's advice comes from a wide range of consultancy firms, including Nera (National Economic Research Associates) and PPPP (Public Private Partnerships Programme). The LIC believes a national network of libraries will provide services to business and help people to educate themselves. Culture Minister, Chris Smith, has already viewed the report informally and will give a formal response at some point next year. The Department of Culture, Media and Sport plans to fund the move to digital systems, which will include staff training, from a New Opportunities Fund, set up as part of the National Lottery. The private sector is expected to play a key role in financing the infrastructure. The LIC will publish a full copy of its report on its Web site, at http://www.lic.gov.uk.
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