Eric J. Byrne
Ceist:37 Mr. E. Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment the proposals, if any, there are for the development of a strategic plan for the library service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9719/97]
Written Answers. - Library Services.
Under the Local Government Act, 1994, each library authority must, from time to time, prepare and adopt a programme for the operation and development of its library service. In September 1995 my Department issued guidelines to library authorities on the matter, and, to date, 19 plans have been prepared and adopted by library authorities.
My Department also intends to review library strategy at national level with a view to providing an updated policy framework for the development of the public library service. The review will involve widespread consultation. It will examine the functions being carried out by public libraries, the expectations of different groups from the service, and the relationship between library and other services. The review will complement a more wide-ranging review of the library sector being planned by An Chomhairle Leabharlanna.