Our message to the next government: harness the reach and power of the library network to deliver national priorities at a local level

Libraries have a unique place in our communities: free, safe, universal spaces, often in prominent locations, with strong links to local civic and voluntary organisations. Their mission is to inspire lifelong learning, support health and wellbeing and enrich our economic and cultural life. Books, literacy and reading remain at the heart of the modern library service, which also offers a wide range of essential community support: free computing and internet access, family and early years activities, business advice, arts events, social clubs and much more. For all these reasons, the library network is one of the most effective and efficient means of delivering services into communities.

Our top priority: fix the local government funding crisis

Along with the Local Government Association, County Councils Network, the cross-party Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Committee and many other charities, we are calling for fundamental reform of local government financing. This includes multi-year settlements and urgent funding to plug the multi-billion pound gap in council finances. The future of the public library network – and all essential local services - will remain precarious until there is fair and sustainable funding for councils, at a level which supports:

• a well-stocked and equipped service that meets the needs of local library users
• a fairly rewarded, diverse and skilled library workforce
• safe, accessible and adaptable library buildings

In its first 100 days the next government should also commit to:

A new digital inclusion strategy

The last digital inclusion strategy was written in 2014 and the digital landscape has changed dramatically since then. The next government should publish a new strategy that recognises libraries’ frontline role in bridging the digital divide. Building on the recommendations in the Lords Communications and Digital Committee's report on digital inclusion, the strategy should prioritise investment in equipment, specialist staff and IT infrastructure so that libraries can meet the demand for digital support. An investment of £12m would provide intensive digital skills support across the library network, helping the most vulnerable access essential services.

Investing in early years literacy

While children’s literacy in England is generally improving, early inequalities are stubbornly resistant – and their impact can last a lifetime. Public libraries have a critical role to play here by providing access to a wide range of age-appropriate reading materials, hosting high-quality family activities and promoting a positive home learning environment. The next government should invest in early years literacy support across the library network: £21m would provide specialist staff, resources and training for every public library service in England.

Tackling loneliness through libraries

Libraries have a long history of tackling loneliness and isolation, whether the cause is coping with bereavement, experiencing a period of unemployment, living with disability, moving to a new town or becoming a parent. Building on the experience of warm spaces and the pioneering Know Your Neighbourhood project, we are calling on the next government to support year-round work to alleviate loneliness and reduce isolation through libraries, in partnership with charities, faith groups and health services. An investment of £32m could empower libraries to reach around 80,000 people at risk of chronic loneliness.