A pioneering new project will help to remove the barriers that prevent low-income families from accessing a range of resources, activities and support at their local library. 

While libraries across the country offer a host of free resources, from books and computers to wellbeing events and activities for all age groups, they are often under utilised by low-income families in their communities. 

In partnership with Libraries Connected, the membership body for public libraries, charity Children North East hope its unique Poverty Proofing© methodology will help us to understand the reasons why, with aim of removing these barriers.

Funded by a grant of £49,770 from Arts Council England, Children North East will carry out a full Poverty Proofing© audit of libraries in three English local authorities. 

The project will begin in Gateshead and involve in-depth discussions with staff and library users, as well as with people in the community affected by poverty who don’t currently use the libraries, and “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.

Councillor Catherine Donovan, deputy leader of Gateshead Council, said: 

It’s without a doubt that for many, our libraries are the hubs of our communities, offering essential resources and a place to socialise and meet others at a range of activities, events and support groups all year round.

However, this offer may not be as widely known about or as easily accessible as we’d hope. Understanding the barriers to our low-income communities is vital to help ensure everyone in Gateshead can access the warm welcome received when you walk through the doors of our libraries, be it for the first time or the 100th time.

We’re proud to be the first of three local authorities participating in this innovative new project with Libraries Connected and Children North East, which has the potential to change the lives of many for the better.

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. I look forward to seeing the results of the pilots and to everyone, regardless of their background, being confident in using their local library.