Two more library services have joined a pioneering Arts Council England-funded project that will help libraries become more welcoming to families experiencing poverty. 

The project is a partnership between Libraries Connected, the membership body for public libraries, and charity Children North East, whose unique Poverty Proofing© methodology will identify barriers preventing low-income families from accessing the full range of library services. 

Funded by a grant of £49,770 from Arts Council England, Children North East will carry out a full Poverty Proofing© intervention in three library services. The project started in Gateshead last year and will now move on to Oldham and Cornwall.

The process involves talking to staff and library users as well as in-depth discussions with people affected by poverty who don’t currently use the libraries, including "mystery shopper" visits. 

This qualitative research will be combined with existing evidence to develop a series of bespoke recommendations that will help the libraries sector to improve access, participation, experience and long-term engagement for low-income families. 

There will also be wider poverty awareness training for library workers, leadership sessions to explore how library services can integrate poverty awareness into their strategic planning, and resources for library services elsewhere to use in their own communities.  

Isobel Hunter MBE, Chief Executive of Libraries Connected, said:  

“There’s growing evidence that public libraries play a vital role in supporting early literacy and communications skills, helping young children prepare for and thrive at school. But families from the most deprived backgrounds are less likely to visit libraries, even though they are free and open to all. We’re excited to be working with Children North East to find those extra costs, unseen inequalities and experiences of exclusion that could prevent families making the most of their local library.” 

Chloe MacLellan, Poverty Proofing Culture Manager at Children North East, said:  

"Libraries can be lifelines for families experiencing poverty, offering free access to learning, culture, and support. But sometimes barriers—such as hidden costs or stigma—can discourage access to these essential community spaces. We are delighted to be working with Libraries Connected and Arts Council to help identify and remove those barriers, making sure that libraries truly are a welcoming and accessible resource for every child and family, regardless of their background.” 

Luke Burton, Director Libraries, Arts Council England said: 

“We know that the services provided by libraries are vital to so many in their communities but also that some people face difficulty in accessing them. I’m pleased that the Arts Council has been able to provide funding for Libraries Connected and Children North East to look at the barriers stopping some families from experiencing everything that libraries have to offer, and it’s great to see two more services across the country joining the pilot. I look forward to seeing the results of the pilot and to everyone, regardless of their background, being confident in using their local library.” 

 For media enquiries and interviews please contact James Gray, Communications and Advocacy Manager at Libraries Connected by emailing james.gray@librariesconnected.org.uk.