Radar

Radar is a new programme of artists' residencies in public libraries across Lancashire.

Through collaborative arts activities and experiences the scheme will consider the role of libraries as free and accessible public gateways to culture, and the implications of the evolution of digital culture on this core function.

During the early months of 2010 Radar's first resident Jennie Savage spent time with Lancaster Library's staff and users developing A Walk from A-Z, exploring the new and multiple uses of the library building as it searches for its identity in the digital age, the radical roots of the original library movement and its relation to the city.

A Walk from A-Z is a 35 minute audio walk that takes you on a tour of the history of the library movement via the collection at Lancaster Library. From roots in the Chartist rebellion through to the library’s relationship to digital culture you will walk a map which draws this line back onto a locality.

Two more residencies will happen throughout Lancashire in 2010/11.

The term Radar is an apt analogy for the residencies, which will extend the digital opportunities currently available in the county's library service and identify future potential. The scheme is being developed in partnership between folly and the Lancashire County Library and Information Service. Radar sees resident artists work with library staff, users and communities in the county, exploring relationships between the virtual and physical cultural experiences on offer and potentially available through public libraries. The scheme has developed out of creative consultation activities, commissioned by folly in 2009.