Creative England Funding Opens the Book on '21st Century Libraries'

Creative England has joined forces with the Library of Birmingham, in the lead-up to the library's opening next year, to invest in digital solutions to create a '21st Century library'.

SMEs are invited to apply for funding – of up to £100,000 – for any products and services focused on developing audiences; opening up digital access to the library; bridging the gap between bricks and mortar and digital channels; and exploring new business models. Examples given include a mobile gaming tied into the library, and a mobile delivery services for its collections.

“We’re very excited about this landmark project for a number of reasons,” said Creative England's director of business development, Jim Farmery. “It’s central to our remit to support and develop creative sector SMEs and help broker new business connections - with both the public and private sector - which will ultimately create jobs and growth.”