Adult Learners and Public Libraries

Abstract

The UK Government’s ten year strategic vision for public libraries in England was defined in Framework for the Future, which set out current strengths and key areas for development for public libraries in supporting lifelong learning, and the benefits to be gained from public libraries working in partnership with other organisations. It describes the role of public libraries in providing a flexible and supportive environment for adult learners and the importance of allowing users to learn ‘at their own pace, without having to study for a qualification’. A study for the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) undertaken by a team at Liverpool John Moores University reported on the first phase of a project on public library provision for adult learners. Library services sampled in the study have all established good relationships and reciprocal arrangements with a wide range of partners to provide adult learning services. A wide range of courses and services is provided, some of which will have a broad appeal to all learner groups, and others, which are targeted to a particular community. Some courses entice new learners and others continue to engage people in the learning process. This works towards social inclusion and bridging the digital divide. All library services sampled expressed the desire to provide an appropriate environment for learners. Public libraries use a variety of methods to promote adult learning services, but acknowledge that promotion needs to be more sophisticated and informed by market research undertaken within particular communities.