This paper reports on a major United Kingdom (UK) government initiative to use the public library service as a key component in the government's agenda for social change, examines future implications for public libraries and library workers if present trends and development continue, and makes predictions about the wider implications of information and communications technologies (ICT) and social change. The first section provides background on public libraries in the UK, government projects, and processes for effective use of technology. The second section describes the People's Network project, including: (1) key priority areas--education/learning for life, citizens' information, business and the economy, and community history/identity; (2) objectives--access to ICT equipment, training opportunities, and electronic content; (3) expected outcomes--the chance for all to benefit, new opportunities for people to learn and develop, and better informed and more economically effective communities; and (4) allocation of funding. The third section considers the People's Network program in a wider context, including three matters that are relevant to a broader consideration of the future of public libraries, i.e., other public sector projects, extending the People's Network to include museums and archives, and the government portal movement. The fourth section addresses the future, including recommendations for library service managers--be an explorer with a mission, and be a confident advocate for what you believe. (MES)