Our public library system is one of our great national resources.
Libraries are now about to experience the most radical change they have ever undergone.
1.82 1.04 Visits p.a. The UK has a long tradition of free, public access libraries that was first recognised legally by the Public Libraries Act of 1850. The 150 th anniversary of the Act will be celebrated in 2000. In practice most public library authorities today charge for many of their services apart from the lending of books and access to reference services. The UK's public library system today is a major national resource, allowing everyone full access to books, periodicals and other publications for their educational cultural or recreational needs.