Community Engagement in Public Libraries report and toolkit
MLA worked with CSV to produce a Community Engagement Report that underpinned the creation of the Community Libraries Programme. An accompanying Toolkit to help library services put community engagement plans together was also produced. These can be downloaded from the MLA website.
There are also a number of useful resources which will help those that are applying to the Big Lottery Community Libraries Programme.
Community Profiling for Public Library Impact Measures
Community profiling is seen as an important part of the engagement process. A useful template for developing community profiles was set up for the Public Library Impact Measures.
Disability Portfolio
MLA has developed a Disability Portfolio guide. The Portfolio is a collection of twelve guides on how best to meet the needs of disabled people as users and staff in museums, archives and libraries. It gives invaluable advice, information and guidance to help overcome barriers and follow good practice. There are specific modules on ‘Outreach and Partnerships’ and ‘Consultation’.
Inspiring Learning for All
Inspiring Learning for All (ILfA) is the access and learning framework which has been developed by MLA following a three year period of research and consultation with all types of museum, library and archive. It is designed to be relevant to the whole organisation and is intended as a tool to be used by anyone whose work touches people, places, partnerships and policies, rather than being the responsibility of learning professionals alone.
More information can be found on our website or you can access the toolkit at: www.inspiringlearningforall.gov.uk.
Toolkits underpinning ILfA, developed by MLA in partnership with regional agencies, available from MLA website
Not for the Likes of You
The focus of Not for the Likes of You is on how cultural organisations can become accessible to a broad general audience by changing their overall positioning and message, seeking the context of a broader, more holistic approach rather than simply by implementing targeted audience development schemes or projects. It examines the need for a willingness to embrace change to achieve these aims.
There is a resource list which details useful sources of guidance and information to assist arts and cultural practitioners in engaging with and meeting the needs of underrepresented audiences.
