Random House has launched a libraries "buddying" scheme, and is in talks with The Reading Agency with a view to include other publishers.

Transworld's PR director Alison Barrow told delegates that the publisher's staff have already started conversations with their local libraries about the issues they face on the ground and what Random House can do to help. Topics discussed include which authors are available for events, how to raise awareness of new and emerging authors, and disseminating brochures for reading groups.

RH is now in talks about how the scheme can be rolled out to other publishers too to ensure there is a good geographical spread of libraries being assisted.

The concept of publishers teaming up with local libraries was first raised by Bloomsbury chief executive Nigel Newton in March, when Newton called on publishers to adopt their local library authorities, saying Bloomsbury would work with Kensington and Chelsea and East Sussex.

Speaking at the conference, Reading Agency director Miranda McKearney (pictured) said it was crucial in difficult times to find ways not to lose momentum in libraries. "These cuts are hideous but they come after a period of huge investment in libraries," she insisted, saying she was at work on a plan for a new national library reading offer that she called "a reading year that pulls all the big programmes together."