Call for better library research resources

The UK must develop a national electronic research library and a strategy for research library provision to ensure researchers have access to world-class information resources, the education and skills select committee said this week.

Its report on libraries says that with student numbers expected to increase by 35 per cent by 2010, funding for libraries is crucial to the future of higher education.

It says the British Library ought to receive funding from the Department for Education and Skills. At present it receives nothing from the DFES even though more than half its activities are associated with higher education.

Details: www.parliament.uk/commons/selcom/edskillshome.htm