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A group of librarians are hoping to launch a festival of public libraries, backed by a crowdfunded campaign.
Librarians Richard Veevers and Sue Lawson have set up the National Public Library Festival to celebrate the work of libraries around the country. They hope to hold the festival at the Library of Birmingham on Saturday 30th August this year, to mark the 50th anniversary of the 1964 museums and public library act, which guaranteed that local authorities must provide a "comprehensive and efficient" library service.
The festival is looking to raise £20,000 in funding to stage the event in Birmingham, with talks, music and theatres performances, sessions with writers and poets, workshops and other activities, including a mini 3D printing festival. It has currently raised £670, with 21 days left to hit target.
Veevers, who has previously been involved with Library Camp conferences, which will produce the festival, said holding a festival this year would be ideal to mark the anniversary of the act. He said: "When we realised we had this important anniversary right on our doorsteps, we knew it was a great chance to celebrate all the things that are happening with libraries. We know the problems the service is facing as well, but we have to talk about the positives as well where we can."
He added: "If we are unable to meet funding targets for this year, it won't dampen our spirits to try again next year – we have been in talks about receiving backing, and are confident that we can get this off the ground. There are other celebrations out there like National Libraries Day (scheduled for 7th February 2015), but we can add to that."
People who want to back the festival can do so on Crowdfunder website.