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Written question asked by Edward Morello (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 13 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 15 July 2026. It was answered by Ian Murray (Labour) on Monday, 20 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Listed Buildings: Libraries

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what steps her Department is taking to support libraries operating in listed buildings.

Answer

Each local authority is responsible for assessing the needs of their local communities and designing a library service, including locations and buildings, to meet those needs within their available resources.

Core funding for libraries is through the Local Government Finance Settlement. In 2026-27 the government will make available £78 billion in Core Spending Power for local authorities in England, a 6.1% increase compared to 2025-26.

Some listed buildings housing libraries may be able to benefit from the Department’s Heritage at Risk Capital Fund, operated by Historic England, which provides grants of up to £1 million to individuals and organisations legally responsible for conserving listed landmarks and has a budget of up to £60 million over the next four years.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
18446
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Libraries Listed buildings
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk