This year’s survey findings highlight the vital role of libraries and the People’s Network of PCs. They cover library plans for the year ahead and examine user experiences – who they are and what they need. Library funding constraints and opinions on addressing these challenges are fully explored. 80 public library authorities participated in the survey.
Key findings include:
- Libraries and their PCs are integral to ensuring inclusivity in a digital-first world: 80% of library authorities are very often or often seeing PC users directed to the library by local and central government departments
- Nearly 80% rated digital skills support provided by libraries as important to essential
- Nearly 75% of libraries are seeing job seekers use their PCs very often or often. Benefit claimants and retirees are the next most frequent users
- Over 95% of library authorities rate PCs and printing from them as essential services, yet over a third feel PC funding is inadequate or poor
- Microsoft Office availability is important to PC users for completing tasks: nearly 90% of libraries provide access. Library budgets are being challenged with steep rises in costs for these software licences
- It’s important library PCs stay up to date and secure. Over 40% have plans to carry out PC refreshes to Windows 11 in 2026. Nearly 50% are already on this operating system
- Library self-service continues to be centred on kiosks; over 70% are expecting to include them in longer term library planning. Nearly 50% are using or planning to use an unstaffed model at some sites and for some service hours
- Overall library funding is rated inadequate or worse by at least half of libraries; it leads to tough choices on resourcing, site closures, and impairs service reliability and innovation. Only a third of authorities describe their funding as adequate or better
- Over 50% of libraries rely on additional funding to what’s routinely provided by councils, rating these sources as important to essential. However, bids take time and resource which are often limited
- The top 3 ways libraries feel they can strengthen cases for funding are: promote recognition and understanding of services; highlight how they support wider strategy and other depts’ priorities; and demonstrate library value using data and evidence
The full results are available in the report here.
With thanks to all libraries for taking part in this year’s research.
