Making a Difference: Libraries, Lockdown and Looking Ahead

This report explores the role UK public library services played in supporting individuals and communities during lockdown and the barriers they faced during this time. It also explores their role in supporting the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and what it would take to unleash the full potential of what public library services have to offer us all.

The report identifies key messages and action areas for local and national governments, sector support bodies and the sector itself. The report draws on public polling of 2,196 UK adults carried out by Savanta ComRes on behalf of Carnegie UK, 1,196 responses to a public library staff survey and depth interviews with 22 Heads of Library Services.