THE LAST TO GET FUNDED AND THE FIRST TO GET CUT

‘The last to get funded and the first to get cut: arts cuts and the politicisation of freedom of expression.’

By Emily Mitchell*

“Growing up the only thing that saved me was the library”

The word of Policy 360’s Ellen Finlay who grew up in the Tiger’s Bay area of north Belfast.

The benefits of the arts cannot be underestimated.

And specifically, libraries which serve so many different types of people, including in rural, divided, and socially deprived communities.

They are a hub of neutrality and safety in the heart of a community.

On the importance of libraries Ellen, speaking to me at Belfast City Hall, said they were “a sanctuary” to her when she was a child.

“Growing up the only thing that saved me was the library,” Ellen said.

“It was my only escapism.

“The library van was the only way I would have had access to books.

“Cuts are so disappointing because libraries are a lifeline to many.”

Libraries provide much more than books to take home.

From a computer to print off a resume, to a place of warmth during winter, they have filled gaps left by government cuts to services, and yet they are often characterised as a bonus rather than a neccesity.

In 2024 complimentary period products and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) lamps were added to all 98 Libraries NI branches available illustrating the numerous roles library perform including supporting the health and wellbeing of users.

At Belfast Central Library Julie Reid, Development Manager at Libraries NI, said: “What we work to do is ensure it’s welcoming, it’s inviting, no matter who you are, no matter what background you’re from.”

Libraries are funded through Stormont’s Department for Communities’ budget.

Speaking to me at Stormont Sian Mullholland MLA the Alliance Party chair of the All-Party Group for Arts said in general they are commonly overlooked as a bonus while in reality they are vital and fulfil requirements in many areas.

“If you’re (seen as) a luxury, you’re the last to get funded and the first to get cut, which is what we’ve seen with the art sector”.

In recent years Libraries NI was unable to purchase new books, and opening hours were decreased which had detrimental impact on people accessing the library as well as limiting the provision of relevant and up to date literature.

Since the return to devolution, following the latest impasse, activities were reinstated but there is some anxiety about the future among those in the sector.

Julie Reid emphasised that any increases in funding were “testament to departmental colleagues and to our Minister who has been very engaged with us”.

Comparatively The Linen Hall Library, an independent library, a rarity now on the island of Ireland, generates 8% of its income from membership, and the rest through fundraising.

Julie Andrews, director of The Linen Hall Library described the funding model as both “a strength and a weakness”.

The independent status removes reliance on government funding therefore the library can raise money whenever they wish although at times it can struggle.

One of the most important aspects of libraries is that they provide a wide range of literature from all hues of the political spectrum.

This is vital in contributing to individual’s intellectual freedom and freedom of expression.

Any attempts at censorhip and limiting freedoms, locally or internationally, is a concern.

On the topic of censorship Julie said: “We’re here not to offer opinions, but to offer people the opportunity to read as widely as possible”.

She added: “Libraries are one of the only open access communities based neutral spaces in Northern Ireland.

“It is vital they continue ensuring that anyone can read widely and safeguarding freedom of expression; guaranteeing perspectives are not excluded based on the government’s beliefs.”

*Emily Mitchell (17) is a student journalist from Co Down.

Following her A-levels she plans to continue her education at university.

Last month Emily work shadowed WIMB director and freelance Northern Ireland Editor Amanda Ferguson over the course of a week, including trips to Belfast City Hall, Stormont Parliament Buildings, Belfast Book Festival, and Newcastle for the British Irish Council meeting.