I raised the issue of stock selection practices with Roy Clare, Chief Executive of the MLA. Here is the exchange of emails:
Dear Roy
As an author, library user, teacher and campaigner, I have been approached by several people concerned about the recent allegations that some library authorities have allowed exclusive supplier selection in return for higher discounts. I think there is real cause for concern here. This seems to be a most dangerous practice which may contravene the statutory duty of individual authorities to provide a “comprehensive” service to their communities.
You will understand that selecting new books based solely on discount will restrict choice and availability for library users. While many new books may be common to all library authorities, careful selection to meet the different needs of our diverse communities is essential. There is a real danger that literary works, those written in minority languages and works published by smaller publishers will be restricted. I understand that some publishers in the IPG are already concerned as I believe will be most authors.
I hope you will move quickly to issue a statement confirming that any arrangements for exclusive supplier selection should not be allowed.
I would be grateful if you would allow me to publish your reply on my Blog.
Alan Gibbons
Alan,
Public libraries should have a good stock selection policy to guide their decision-making and investment in book stock selection.
Working through consortiums and suppliers, libraries can effectively deliver book collections that meet public demand and local needs and interests.
Provided councils use supplier selection according to best practice principles, it can be a major efficiency saving for libraries services across the UK - helping to improve the effectiveness of buying stock; saving time on routine back office activity; reducing the costs for local authorities and creating best value for the public.
Responding to public demand, by providing popular and current titles whilst maintaining the integrity of collections so they serve the public and reflect local needs is important.
Library staff must be free to make decisions that consider their local communities’ needs. The MLA offers guidance on stocking material through Guidance on the Management of Controversial Material in Public Libraries issued last year.
Further training opportunities, delivered by CILIP, in writing and developing good stock selection policies, will soon be available.
In ‘best practice’ terms, authorities must avoid becoming vulnerable to anti-competitive practices or monopoly suppliers.
The MLA advocates that authorities balance the need for efficient buying with autonomy, independence, integrity and local choice.
The consumer, not the supplier, must be the driving force.
Roy Clare CBE
CEO, Museums, Libraries and Archives Council
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