"Permeating all community activities"?; comparing events and programming in Westminster and Tower Hamlets public libraries

Abstract

A comparative study of events and programming in two London public library services, Westminster and Tower Hamlets, is reported. The two services offer the same proportion of 'engagement' programming. Tower Hamlets operates a novel service model, though one with long antecedents, integrating library, learning and cultural services. Its extensive programmes of educational and special events have led to a great increase in visitors, though not to a corresponding increase in use of core library services.