Public library use has risen across England, with 36% of people aged 16 and over engaging with library services at least once during 2025/26.
That is up from 31% the previous year and continues a steady rise from 21% in 2021/22. Physical engagement increased five percentage points to 31%, while digital engagement rose two points to 18%.
Books remain the main draw
Most people used libraries in person to borrow, browse or return books, newspapers, music, CDs, DVDs or audiobooks. Online, the most common activities included reserving or renewing a book, paying a fine, borrowing digital resources and searching catalogues.
There was a wide gap between local authorities. Physical engagement ranged from 48% in Richmond upon Thames to 14% in the City of London. Digital engagement was highest in Oxford, at 33%, and lowest in Sunderland, at 9%.
Of those who engaged with libraries, 13% used both physical and digital services, while 18% used them only in person and 5% only online. The figures come from a survey representative of people aged 16 and over in England.
Why it matters for Britain
The results show that libraries continue to provide practical access to books, audiobooks and online resources. The rise in both forms of engagement suggests these services remain useful to communities as well as adapting to digital habits.
