The [Conservative] Future of Libraries - Ed Vaizey Talks with Talis
The next UK general election is probably only a couple of years away and there is a serious possibility that we could see a change of governing party. Against this background Ed Vaizey, Conservative MP for Wantage & Didcot and Shadow Minister for Culture is beginning to shape his thoughts and future policy with respect to libraries.
This podcast conversation, recorded in Ed Vaizey’s office in the Houses of Parliament, explores Ed’s thinking as to the way Government should influence library services provided by local authorities; is the MLA as an organisation the appropriate way to promote libraries at a national level; and even is the Department of Culture the right place for libraries to be represented.
With a guest appearance of Big Ben, chiming the hour, this is an interesting insight into the thoughts of a senior opposition politician on the future of libraries.
This conversation was recorded on Wednesday 10th July and edited on a Mac with Garageband.
July 15th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Uninspiring stuff indeed. Libraries have been undervalued by the government, neglected by the MLA and face a similarly vague and unfocussed future if the Tories get in. Ed is clearly not that passionate or knowledgeable about public libraries either.
With the MLA five year action plan out this is not set to change. Is there yet another option i wonder?
July 15th, 2008 at 5:02 pm
Oh Dear, but one trueism, he has gone back to libraries as a result of having children.
Some daft ideas such as libraries on thier own in a government
department?????
Nothing new.
One has to ask do we get what we deserve?
He seemed to be struggling, and as much as I like Richard I wish he would be more Jeremy Paxman like?
Mind he was right about The People’s Network! Seems to struggle for the right words, like sustainability!
No new ideas or any real conviction, and little seems to have come from the conferenece!
Short and not too sweet!
July 20th, 2008 at 10:51 am
I’m pleased Ed Vaizey recognises the asset value and brand as far as local government is concerned, and the positive aspects of local government involvement. The issue about which government department is responsible for policy is not whether we are in CSF or CLG but the need for stronger leadership. A consistent, long term approach would be good though - and did we seriously expect a politician in opposition to promise much? I was a bit disappointed that in considering outcomes, he still seemed to focus on outputs - what we need to demonstrate is the broader positive effects of having a well-funded library service: a more literate and empowered community. Richard is possibly more Frank Skinner than Jez Paxman, but the Talis podcast isn’t really Newsnight!