Lambeth's libraries getting better with Labour

Lambeth's libraries have been named as one of five finalists in a national competition to find the libraries that offer the best services to young people. Cllr Steve Reed is asking residents to rally around to help Lambeth win the top prize.

Lambeth will go head to head with four other areas in the national final of the "Love Libraries" competition, with the winner being decided by a national public vote.

To help Lambeth win, local residents can pick up a voting card in any Lambeth library, or vote online at the Love Libraries website.

Lambeth has reached the final of the competition thanks to the fantastic range of events, debates, talent showcases and variety shows now available to the borough's young people through libraries. Under the Lib Dems, Lambeth's libraries were judged among the worst in the country, contributing to the miserable one-star rating the Council received thanks to the failed Tory-Liberal coalition.

Labour has made young people a priority, so now Lambeth Libraries run a range of events that showcase the local talents of singers, dancers, poets, performers and musicians in a safe environment. They also host youth debates giving young people from the ages of 13 to 19 an opportunity to voice their opinions on issues close to their hearts, such as the influence of rap music on youth culture for young people. They also provide opportunities for young people to develop their skills in a range of fields, including DJ-ing, song writing, filmmaking and poetry.

The programme was inspired by young people themselves, after the Labour-led council worked with members of Lambeth Youth Council to find out what would attract more young people to visit libraries. The Youth Council made a number of recommendations that the library service has taken on board, such as involving young people in the ordering of stock such as books, CDs and DVDs.

Voting starts on Monday 13 August and closes on Friday 14 September with the winner being announced at an awards ceremony in London on Wednesday 3 October.