£3.4m to develop digital collections platform for UK libraries

£3.4m has been invested in creating a one-stop digital platform for UK libraries' collections.

The British Library will develop the platform, named Single Digital Presence, to improve public access and online engagement, helping libraries across the country to share content and resources.

Research and consultation has been under way since 2018, but this Arts Council England funding will allow a live version of the platform to be tested, most likely in 2023.

Over the next three years of the programme, £1m will be spent on libraries' IT services so they can make the most of this new tool.

The British Library will also investigate how the platform can be improved to meet library users' needs in the future.