Our library network, bringing culture to the people
In addition to being in possession of one of the largest Shakespeare libraries in the world, Birmingham’s public libraries are a vital part of the city’s cultural life. While there are some planned cost savings required for public libraries in Birmingham, most libraries will remain open across the city and are a well-used, valued community resource and statutory service; very much part of the future for the city
The Libraries Service Bookstart initiative gives a book to every child born in Birmingham, their First Words Together project helps parents work with their children on language skills and they have a programme especially for people with dementia. They also have a Warm Welcomes programme offering a friendly, free and warm space for people to spend some time.
Their cultural footprint is significant. When they were set up in the 1860s one of their founding objectives was ‘Culture for Everyone’. It’s a mission that continues to this day and is now taken as a brief to also reflect the super-diverse population of Birmingham.
Located throughout the entire city, our libraries support the city’s makers and creators, from advice on protecting legal creative rights to tips on starting a career in the arts. From helping local cultural organisations attract funding through to co-delivering arts-based projects and helping creatives reach new audiences.
And they are gateways to arts and culture. Birmingham libraries give more people access to the arts through co-created events with authors, poets, theatres, performers, artists and local cultural organisations, libraries can often provide people with their first introduction to new forms of culture and creativity.
A standout recent project was their ‘Everything to Everybody’ Shakespeare project with University of Birmingham and National Lottery Heritage Fund. Through extensive collaboration and co-production (with 40+ community facing partner organisations) it delivered a modern take on the bard that included playing off the Birmingham Shakespeare Collection’s 99 languages against the diversity of languages spoken in Birmingham.
Credit: Simon Hadley
