Measuring the value of public libraries in the digital age: What the power people need to know

The evaluation and impact of public libraries is highly topical as local authorities make decisions about what can and cannot be provided through the public purse. This article reports the outcomes of a research workshop which used the Delphi method to gather opinions from expert stakeholders on this subject. Key themes included the value and social benefits of libraries; the need for effective communication; the need for research; the role of CILIP; and the required next steps. The authors suggest the novel approach of using a human rights-based approach to support arguments in favour of public library provision.