Neil MacInnes
Board member
Neil is the Strategic Lead for Libraries, Galleries and Culture at Manchester City Council. He has over 30 years experience in public libraries having worked in a range of roles with Glasgow City Council during a 20-year period and is now Strategic Lead for Libraries, Galleries and Culture with Manchester City Council. During his time as President of Society of Chief Librarians, he helped secure the £2m funding award from Arts Council England and oversaw their transformation into Libraries Connected.
I’m delighted to be part of Public Libraries 2030 which builds on the success of Public Libraries 2020. I have found it really valuable working with library leaders from across Europe, sharing learning and good practice which I’ve been been able to implement in Manchester. The power of the library network and the willingness to collaborate on projects is second to none. Public Libraries 2030 will allow us to have pan European conversations which could open new doors and bring new opportunities for public libraries and our citizens.
How we work
Explore How We Strengthen Libraries and Expand Their Impact
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campaign
Advocate
We empower voices
Through targeted actions and campaigns, we amplify the voice and visibility of public libraries at EU level, raising awareness on their vital role in society and in building a stronger, more inclusive and democratic Europe. Ultimately, we aim to secure recognition and support for libraries at EU level.
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Connect
We build networks
PL2030 brings the European library sector together, fostering collaboration, partnerships, and knowledge exchange through initiatives like the Lighthouse Libraries network. This EU-wide network of innovative libraries is at the core of our efforts to build a vibrant, dynamic and interconnected European library community.
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Innovate
We experiment together
Through European-funded projects, PL2030 empowers libraries to explore new themes, technologies, and solutions that drive transformation in their services and communities. Our commitment to innovation and experimentation in the library sector is the core of our work.