Libraries Connected met with JISC to discuss the future of the Digital Library Framework. The framework was introduced in 2018 to help simplify the process of accessing online services for users. However, given the low take up of the service, we consulted with library services to determine its future viability.

The survey found that:

• Many authorities did not make use of the framework because not all suppliers were included
• Many suppliers offered similar financial arrangements if authorities subscribed to their services, regardless of the framework
• Authorities reported some savings regarding procurement time and expenses.

We have, therefore, decided to pause the framework while we investigate alternate arrangements that more closely align with the needs of library services. Any authority using the framework will need to contact suppliers to discuss their future service arrangements from 1 April 2020.

We would like to thank JISC for their work on this project and their partnership with public Libraries. We will continue the positive working arrangements that have been established during this project as we explore future projects together.