Libraries Connected, the membership body for public library services, has today published new research with Children North East showing how hidden barriers can put low-income families off using libraries.

Funded jointly by Libraries Connected and Arts Council England, researchers worked with library services in Gateshead, Oldham and Cornwall, speaking to library users, non-users and staff to better understand the experiences of people living in poverty and identify barriers that can inadvertently limit access to services.

Families described worries about books being lost, damaged or returned late. Participants also highlighted barriers including transport and parking costs, printing charges, and the affordability of cafés and gift shops.

The good news is that many of these barriers can be addressed through relatively simple changes. The research has informed a new framework, based on Children North East’s Poverty Proofing methodology - which has previously been used with schools and museums - to help libraries identify barriers and take practical steps to remove them.

Participating library services have already introduced changes including clearer communication about borrowing policies, more supportive language in reminder notices, improved signage, expanded outreach and stronger opportunities for community feedback.

The findings come amid growing concern about children's reading for pleasure and access to books. They also reflect broader pressures created by the cost of living crisis, and the ways in which hidden costs can shape everyday decisions for families on low incomes.

Despite identifying challenges, participants overwhelmingly described libraries as welcoming, supportive and non-judgmental spaces. Many valued free access to books, computers, Wi-Fi and community activities, while others spoke of libraries providing friendship, belonging and support during difficult periods in their lives. Library staff were consistently identified as one of the service's greatest strengths.

The report concludes that meaningful improvements often begin not with major investment, but with listening to communities and understanding lived experience, key elements of the Poverty Proofing methodology. It argues that by working alongside people experiencing poverty, libraries can strengthen their role as inclusive spaces that support reading, learning and community connection for everyone.

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

"Public libraries are among the most trusted and welcoming public services in the country. But there is always more we can do to make people feel welcome and included - this research demonstrates the importance of looking beyond the obvious barriers and understanding how concerns about costs, confidence and belonging can affect whether people feel able to take part. This framework gives services a powerful new tool to identify those barriers and create more inclusive experiences for everyone.”

Leigh Elliott, Chief Executive of Children North East, said: 

“Reading plays a vital role in children’s and young people’s development, from helping families bond with babies from birth to supporting language, literacy and learning throughout childhood and into early adulthood. We are proud of the work done to improve access to libraries, particularly as they increasingly serve as some of the few free community spaces where people can access support, services and opportunities.These newly developed resources from our Poverty Proofing team will help more libraries become accessible to those who need them most, ensuring that every baby, child and young person has the opportunity to thrive.”

Luke Burton, Director Libraries, Arts Council England said:

“We know how important libraries are in supporting their communities but we need remove the barriers which are unintentionally preventing some people from accessing these services. I’m pleased that we have supported this research and the resulting Poverty Proofing Libraries framework which I hope will lead to everyone feeling welcome and confident in making use of all that their local library offers.”