Elizabeth Binns  

Biography - Elizabeth A. Binns leads Bury's Social Inclusion Unit which provides opportunities for libraries to really change lives. Over the last seven years she has been responsible for involving groups and individuals in influencing not only their local library but also their community. Elizabeth was awarded the MBE in 2006 for services to local government.

Abstract -THE TOPPING FOLD EXPERIENCE
How to engage with the community whether they want to or not!

Seven years ago Topping Fold was a run down council estate with many social problems. Today it is a popular place to live with a thriving community centre and library which is managed by a unique partnership between local people and library services. Community engagement has been the key to this success.