| Editorial:
No such thing as society? Combatting social exclusion has been high on the current UK government's political agenda since it came into office.
The Government defines social exclusion as 'what can happen when people or areas suffer from a combination of linked
problems such as unemployment, poor skills, low incomes, poor housing, high crime environments, bad health, poverty and family
breakdown'. The Social Exclusion Unit was set up in December 1997 with a remit of working across government departments, mostly on specific projects, to reduce social exclusion. With Mo Mowlam as Chair of the Unit, its membership is drawn from across government departments, but there's no obvious representation for the contribution libraries can make in this area.
In this issue, Gerry Power advocates the key role libraries can play in creating a more inclusive society. This role may be obvious to the library and information profession but it isn't always obvious to those decision-makers outside our profession and there's little mention of libraries on the Social Exclusion Unit's Web site. Bob McKee elsewhere in this issue outlines how sees The Library Association engaging with such agendas. There is a chance for the profession to promote the role of libraries as a cohesive force at the
centre of communities, which provide a network of real and 'virtual' spaces for people to learn, share and contribute. The Social Exclusion Unit
i s keen to hear what people think. Perhaps it's time
for us all to stand up and be counted?
Social Exclusion Unit, Cabinet Office, First Floor, Government Offices, Great George Street,
London, SW1P 3AL. E-maiL: seu@gtnet.gov.uk
Andrew Hampson
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