Libraries Connected, the Local Government Association (LGA), The National Archives and Arts Council England have published new joint guidance setting out practical options for council library and archive services undergoing local government reorganisation - the process of replacing the two-tier system of district and county councils with new unitary authorities, responsible for all local services.

Read the guidance on the LGA website

Developed by consultancy Shared Intelligence, the guidance provides tools and advice to help services “continue delivering and developing” during this period of significant structural change.

It includes:

• Clear explanations of possible reorganisation models and their implications for service structures.
• A detailed readiness checklist covering buildings, staffing, IT systems, contracts, service data and partnerships.
• Templates for SWOT analysis and planning, enabling services to anticipate risks and opportunities.
• Advice on maintaining continuity of services on “vesting day” - when a new unitary council formally comes into effect - while planning for longer-term transformation.

The guide explores a range of structures that may emerge from reorganisation, including joint boards for libraries or archives. Drawing lessons from previous reorganisations – including Berkshire, Cumbria and Cheshire – the guide emphasises the importance of up-to-date usage figures, staffing profiles and impact evidence.

Luke Burton, Director, Libraries at Arts Council England, said:

“We were keen to provide funding for this work that will be an invaluable tool and set of guidance for library leaders navigating the challenges, opportunities and uncertainties that Local Government Reorganisation brings. Created in collaboration and with the input of knowledgeable and committed staff from across and within the library sector it is another great example of organisations and individuals coming together to ensure libraries remain at the heart of local services and communities.”

Cllr Julie Jones-Evans, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Committee, said: 

“This guide will help councils with their thinking as they shape options for library and archive services, and we congratulate Libraries Connected and The National Archives for investing in this support to councils.”

Tina Morton, Head of Archive Sector Leadership at The National Archives, said:

“We are delighted to have collaborated with the Local Government Association, Arts Council England and Libraries Connected on this guidance that will help archives successfully advocate for their services. Crucially, this guidance also draws on the wisdom of colleagues from across the library and archive sectors who have past experience of local government reorganisation, ensuring that services can make informed decisions in this period of change.”

Isobel Hunter MBE, Chief Executive of Libraries Connected, said:

“Local government reorganisation is the biggest shakeup of local politics for a generation and will inevitably bring challenges. But it’s also an opportunity to shape stronger, more sustainable services that are even more responsive to local need. This guidance will help library and archive leaders prepare for change with confidence – and ensure they continue delivering and developing as the new structures take shape.”