UK thinktank proposes universal library card to boost arts access

A new report by the Fabian Society advocates for a universal library card for all Britons and suggests that children should dedicate 10% of their school time to arts activities. This initiative aims to democratize access to the arts and address the existing class disparities within the sector. The report emphasizes the importance of integrating creativity into the school curriculum and making arts a daily experience for everyone. It also proposes a culture pass for children to access arts and heritage institutions, alongside a comprehensive review of arts funding. The report comes amid ongoing discussions about the future of the arts in Britain, particularly concerning inequality. Prominent figures, including writer James Graham, have highlighted the need to tackle class bias in the creative sector, noting that only 8% of individuals in the British film and TV industry come from working-class backgrounds. The report's recommendations are seen as practical yet ambitious steps towards re-establishing arts and culture within communities and educational settings. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has echoed these sentiments, pointing out the centralization and exclusivity of the entertainment industry. She noted the low representation of working-class individuals in television and the decline in public trust in media. The report aims to inspire a cultural renaissance that prioritizes the arts as a vital component of national renewal. By embedding arts into education and public life, the Fabian Society believes that creativity can drive economic growth and social change, ultimately enriching society as a whole. The proposed measures are intended to ensure that arts access is equitable and that every child has the opportunity to engage with artistic practices.