Financial Funding: The rise of libraries shutting down and what this means

In towns and cities across the UK, hundreds of public libraries have been shutting down in the past decade due to a lack of financial support and government budget cuts. Once a community place for locals to create friendships, use free resources, and gather in a place of peace, only a few of them remain.

According to research by the BBC, in the last 5 years 190 libraries have shut down and 20 of those were just in London. As councils struggle with finances, they need to make cuts and libraries usually take the fall. The research showed that 40 libraries shut In the UK annually. In the coming year another 20 libraries have already been considered to shut by their councils.

Since 2010 over 800 libraries have shut down in the UK excluding Northern Ireland according to an annual survey by The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy’s (Cipfa).

Campaigners across the country are calling for government action. Groups like Save Our Libraries have been organising protests and petitions, urging ministers to rethink cuts and recognise libraries as essential public services that benefit the community.

Some local councils are experimenting with creative solutions, turning libraries into multi-use hubs that also house cafés or post offices, and holding events and workshops such as book clubs, tutoring classes, and CV building help. But many librarians warn that these measures can only go so far without proper investment and trained staff.

There is also concern about the impact on literacy rates as a 2023 report by the National Literacy Trust warned that children from disadvantaged backgrounds are already falling behind their peers, and the loss of libraries will only widen the gap since they will have less access to vital tools like books and computers. Without action, the risk is not just the loss of libraries, but the tougher access for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Adan Saed, a 19 year old college student said: “I mean, it’s kind of like the youth club situation, but with libraries older people are also impacted. Years ago, my dad used to go to the library to use the computer as well.”

While the support for public libraries will likely not change, their importance to a local community is essential and goes much further than lending books.