Arts Council England has published four research reports that explore the impact of public libraries, many of which are heritage assets.
The series of reports, commissioned by the Arts Council, show the important contribution libraries make to a range of national and local policy areas, including place-shaping and the well-being of older people. The reports draw on new research and existing data and include case studies, testing whether there is evidence to back up some widespread assumptions.
The reports are:
- Stand by me: The contribution of public libraries to the well-being of older people
- Re-writing the story: The contribution of public libraries to place-shaping
- Libraries as community hubs
- Evidencing audience reach