CHAPTER 1 - Libraries and Record Offices

Abstract

This chapter discusses the history and importance of library and record offices in Great Britain. Modern public libraries were established with the passing of the first Public Libraries Act in 1850. They are, therefore, one of the oldest of the branches of local government directly serving individual members of the public. In Great Britain, there has been a long tradition of local history collections that have materials on local government. Sometimes, the library also houses the local record office, for example, in Liverpool or in the Guildhall Library of the City of London, both of which also have outstanding collections of prints of local views and buildings. Many university and technical college libraries provide information, books, periodicals, etc., on local government for students, research workers, and academic staff who are interested in the subject from an academic or vocational point of view. The library of the Royal Institute of Public Administration (RIPA), London, has a good collection of materials on local government and allied subjects. It issues a very useful list of additions at regular intervals which includes periodical articles.