Libraries Connected and CILIP have called on the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport to reject a recommendation in the Hodge Review that would transfer the development role for libraries from Arts Council England (ACE) to the British Library.

In an open letter to Lisa Nandy MP, we warn that such a move would create disruption and reduce funding at a time when the sector needs stability. We argue that ACE has successfully integrated libraries into national cultural strategy since 2011, providing leadership, investment and advocacy.

The letter, signed by the chief executives of both organisations, says:

"Moving these functions to the British Library would incur significant resource and opportunity costs, creating a lengthy and disruptive transition at a time when the sector needs clarity and stability. This would be particularly challenging for the 18 library sector organisations currently within ACE’s Investment Programme."

"The move would do nothing to address the fragmented structure surrounding libraries or the funding challenges faced by the sector – on the contrary, it is likely to reduce the total amount of funding available to libraries."

The letter highlights opportunities to strengthen ACE’s support - through increased investment, deeper integration with other artforms, and a stronger role in research and collaboration - but insists these improvements should be made by enhancing the current structure, not creating a new one.

Read the full letter